New Dogs Join Sunshine Coast Squad

The Sunshine Coast Dog Squad has welcomed two new police dogs, Odin and Jackal, to support efforts to locate and arrest offenders. The Queensland Police Service announced the recruits on August 5, 2026.

Odin, a three-year-old German Shepherd, has been partnered with Senior Constable Daniel Hayward. Jackal, aged 15 months, has joined Acting Sergeant Trent Reynolds after replacing medically retired police dog Enzo. Jackal is the son of serving Sunshine Coast police dog Astro.

Jackal began his first operational shift on July 29. He joins Astro, Buzz and Denver, who became operational in early 2025. In their first year, the dogs responded to 1,667 calls for service, contributing to 138 arrests and 124 tracking deployments.

Handlers continue to train the dogs in tracking, obedience and criminal work throughout their operational careers. Queensland Police said younger dogs such as Jackal receive daily training for several years before reaching their peak working age, generally between four and seven.

Jackal and Astro also appear in the 2027 Queensland Police Service Dog Squad Calendar, launched on August 4. Proceeds support charities including Sunshine Coast-based SalTy Souls, which provides surf therapy programs for vulnerable young people.