The K-9 unit was established in 1976 with one dog and has grown to five dogs over the last 14 years. The K-9 unit's primary function is to achieve psychological deterrence by intimidating inmates to comply with rules enforced by the K-9 unit. The dogs are trained to immobilize and control persons with one bite. The German shepherds employed are trained to exert a bite pressure of 500-600 pounds per square inch, and the Rottweilers used are trained to exert some 800 pounds of pressure per square inch. The dogs are trained to protect their handlers and to pursue and bite persons under handler instructions. K-9 unit daily duties involve routine patrol of the prison interior and exterior perimeters. All "calls for assistance" within the institution are responded to by the K-9 unit as a backup to the correctional staff handling the disturbance. The dog's presence tends to de-escalate most combative situations. The dog is placed on a 6-foot leash and establishes a security perimeter by barking, growing, and patrolling in a swift back-and-forth arc extended from the handler's fixed point. This action tends to neutralize tendencies toward mob action by the inmates. A visible presence and quick response are keys to the deterrent success of the K-9 unit. Illustrative photos are provided.