“We’re just playing with some scent toys to try to get him to kind of imprint on those scents,” Coal’s handler, Officer Johnson, said. “Once his attention is a little bit better and he can focus on more, we’ll start doing some more in-depth training.”

Unlike some K9s trained in apprehension or bite work, Coal is being raised specifically for his nose. Labs like Coal are often chosen for their social nature and natural tracking instincts. His father was even a K9 with Weber County — suggesting that service might just run in the family.

For now, though, Coal’s days are filled with more play than police work. He lives at home with Johnson, goes everywhere with him — even camping — and is growing up alongside a golden retriever puppy who’s just two weeks older.

“There’s a whole lot of puppy going on,” Johnson said with a laugh. “Right now, he mostly just gets to be a puppy, play around and have fun.”

Johnson and Coal have been partnered for just a couple of weeks, but the bond is already strong.

“Unless I’m sleeping, he’s with me all the time,” Johnson emphasized. “He’s pretty at the hip.”

Once fully trained and certified, Coal will serve as a narcotics and tracking dog, supporting local operations and providing a much-needed resource for Tremonton and surrounding areas.

“Right now, we’re reliant on the county or Brigham City if we need a K9 unit, which can mean 20-minute-plus response times,” Johnson explained. “Having our own K9 helps us respond faster and more effectively.”

The department’s long-term goal for Coal includes not just police work but also community engagement. Plans are in place to ensure he becomes a highly social dog, participating in public events, school visits and local outreach

With more vigorous, official training expected to begin in the coming months, Coal’s path to becoming a certified K9 will take time, including formal academy work with Johnson. But the long-term goal is clear: build a reliable, social dog who can serve the department and engage with the community.

Until then, Coal will keep riding along, napping in the truck’s passenger seat and occasionally surprising Johnson — like the time he used the driver’s seat as a bathroom while Johnson was out on a call. And Johnson couldn’t be more excited for the journey ahead.

“In law enforcement, canine handlers are pretty well sought after positions,” Johnson said, explaining that the department underwent testing before selecting a handler. ”It’s been something I wanted to do for a while, and I’m so excited about the whole thing.”

For those wondering how they can support the K9 program, Johnson says it’s simple: say hello.

“If people see us walking around, don’t feel afraid to ask to pet him. He loves pets,” he said. “We’re here to serve the community, be a part of it, and we’re excited.”