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Gastonia, North Carolina Hosts National K-9 Trials, Celebrating Canine Officers and Law Enforcement Unity

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Published on October 30, 2025
Gastonia, North Carolina Hosts National K-9 Trials, Celebrating Canine Officers and Law Enforcement UnitySource: Facebook/Gastonia Police Department

The Gastonia Police Department recently hosted the United Police Work Dog Association (UPWDA) K-9 Trials, welcoming law enforcement teams from across the United States. The event, held at the department’s facilities and nearby parks in Gastonia, North Carolina, provided testing and recertification for police dogs.

A social media post by the department noted that the trials included a range of "real-world scenarios," such as tracking, detection, obedience, and apprehension exercises. The trials focused on testing the skills of the K-9 teams while also providing an opportunity for officers and their canine partners to exchange techniques and strengthen inter-agency coordination.

The department shared a video highlighting the week’s activities, providing the public with an inside look at the training and work of K-9 teams. "We’re honored to have welcomed these dedicated teams and their incredible partners who work every day to keep their communities safe," the Gastonia PD stated in their social media post.