The Carson City Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the official results from the 5^th annual K9 Unit Challenge and the release of the highly anticipated 2026 Limited Edition Event Collectible Challenge Coins. Produced exclusively for this year’s K9 Unit Challenge, these special-edition coins honor the Officers and K9s who competed in this year’s event.

Region’s top law enforcement dogs compete at K9 Unit Challenge in Carson City

K9 Team of the Year:

Carson City Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit.

Top Dog:

Deputy Etchegaray and K9 Braum, Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

Patrol Deployment Scenario:

1^st Place, Deputy Etchegaray and K9 Braum, Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

2^nd Place, Deputy Locke and K9 Otto, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.

3^rd Place, Deputy Jenkins and K9 Bubba, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Handler and K9 Agility Competition:

1^st Place: Officer Schmidt and K9 Jack, Reno Police Department.

2^nd Place, Sergeant Galvin and K9 Blady, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office.

3^rd Place, Deputy Carillo and K9 Dakota, Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

K9 Narcotics Detection:

1^st Place: Deputy Routon and K9 Hera, Story County Sheriff’s Office.

2^nd Place, Deputy “BK” Kharrl and K9 Ares, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office.

3^rd Place, Deputy Foutz and K9 Conan, Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

K9 Explosives Detection:

1^st Place: Officer Stewart and K9 Honey, Capital Police.

2^nd Place, Officer Johnson and K9 Vinci, Reno Tahoe Airport Police.

3^rd Place, Officer Ramos and K9 Gabby, Caesars Entertainment.

Firearms Detection:

1^st Place: Deputy Kepler and K9 Camper, Carson City Sheriff’s Office.

2^nd Place, Officer Kent and K9 Karma, Reno Police Department.

3^rd Place, No Qualifiers.

Local photographer captures Saturday’s action at the K9 Unit Challenge in Carson City

Thanks to all the agencies, handlers, K9’s and judges who participated in this event. This event would not be possible without the participants, amazing K9’s, sponsors and volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to this yearly K9 event.

I would also like to thank all the citizens who came out to support the Officers and their K9 partners. The partnership with the community is what makes this event special and successful. Congratulations to the handler teams who placed and were recognized for their efforts. This event is a win for all the handler teams as this event is an amazing opportunity for friendly competition and ultimately a fantastic training venue that builds the connection between the handler and their K9 partners.

Limited Edition 2026 K9 Unit Challenge Coins:

These coins were created strictly for the 2026 K9 Unit Challenge in limited quantities for this event only. These special coins are a must-have for collectors, law enforcement supporters, and K9 enthusiasts alike. With their detailed design, quality craftsmanship, and the glow in the dark paw, they are a representation of the dedicated K9 teams who competed. These coins also make the perfect gift.

All proceeds from the sale of these collectible coins will directly support the Carson City Sheriff’s Office K9 Program, providing essential equipment, training support, and critical supplies for our K9 Unit. The Carson City Sheriff’s hardworking dedicated K9 Unit operates around the clock to help keep our communities safe. Your support plays a vital role in their continued mission.

The 2026 K9 Unit Challenge coins are available for purchase for $30 each at the Carson City Sheriff’s Office front counter, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Community members are encouraged to act quickly. These coins won’t last long, so come pick yours up today.

Thank you for supporting the Carson City Sheriff’s Office K9 Program and helping us continue to provide the highest level of service for our community.

Best regards,

Sergeant Nate Brehm, K9 Unit Supervisor (3106)

Carson City Sheriff’s Office