Learn from nationally recognized K9 expertise
Instruction shaped by real-world K9 deployment, operational decision-making, and courtroom accountability.
AboutZach Pfannenstiel
Zach brings over 18 years of law enforcement experience, including more than 12 years in canine operations. His background includes extensive expertise in training, leadership, management, and tactical deployments. He currently serves as the Training Sergeant assigned to the Canine Unit, where he leads instruction in areas such as canine academies, E-collar use, SWAT/K9 integration, and problem-solving. Zach manages a large canine program consisting of over 40 working teams and developed a Field Training Officer (FTO) program specifically for K9 handlers. He is a recognized, court-certified expert in animal behavior, police canine handling, and use of force. He is the CEO of Echelon K9, where he oversees all operations related to the training of law enforcement and military canine teams.
Featured session at HITS 2026
Canine Program Management
This course focuses on the administrative and supervisory responsibilities that follow K9 deployments and apprehensions. Instruction covers what post-apprehension follow-ups should include, how incidents are documented, and how records.
Other classes
Tactical Debrief: Optimizing K9 Deployments
Canine Program Management
Tactical Debrief: Optimizing K9 Deployments
Learn fromZach PfannenstielatHITS K9
Join national-scale K9 education designed to strengthen deployment judgment, legal defensibility, and long-term operational performance.
See who else is teaching at HITS
HITS brings together prosecutors, scientists, federal advisors, and operational trainers whose instruction reflects real-world deployment and courtroom scrutiny.
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Erik Good
Fred Helfers