Peel Police Dog Kylo, Hero of 100 Arrests, Dies at Seven After Cancer Battle

Peel Regional Police announced the passing of active Police Service Dog Kylo following his battle with cancer. The force says Kylo, who started service in 2019, died on Friday after being diagnosed with cancer. He was seven years old, brought to Peel from Holland as a two-year-old Belgian Shepherd, and never left the job.

During his career, Kylo served as a general service dog cross-trained in narcotics detection, supporting his handler on thousands of calls for service and assisting in numerous investigations. He was responsible for more than 100 arrests, including extensive work at Toronto Pearson International Airport in partnership with the Canada Border Services Agency and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Kylo played a significant role in combatting auto theft and organized crime in the region, making a meaningful difference in keeping the community safe.

The range of that work was broad. Alongside fellow K9 Nitro, Kylo put his nose to work locating evidence, including locating shell casings at a shooting scene. In October 2020, he handled a more volatile situation: after a driver allegedly tried to drive toward officers during a Mississauga investigation, Kylo tracked the suspect without incident after the man ditched the vehicle and fled. No one was injured.

One of Kylo's takedowns was captured on camera in 2024, showing the police dog chasing down a car theft suspect.

Kylo joined the Peel Canine Unit after completing 16 weeks of foundational training in tracking, evidence recovery, building searches, and suspect apprehension, earning certification for general patrol. He was assigned to Cst. Mario Pittarelli, who at the time of Kylo's entry into the unit was already a 21-year veteran of Peel Regional Police. The two would work together without interruption from January 2019 until Kylo's final day.

What made Kylo stand out beyond the arrest numbers was his temperament. "Kylo was also affectionately known as one of the friendliest police dogs in the service. He brought unmatched energy to his work. Whether eagerly searching for narcotics or chewing on his favourite ball, his enthusiasm was constant." Kylo's strong drive, paired with his approachable temperament, made him not only an exceptional working dog but also a beloved member of the policing community and the Peel Regional Police family.

That combination of relentless drive and genuine friendliness is the hallmark of the best working Belgian Shepherds, and it is exactly what the Peel unit lost on March 20.

"Kylo's sudden passing is a significant loss to the service, his handler, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His dedication, loyalty, and contributions to public safety will not be forgotten. Rest easy, Kylo. End of Watch: March 20, 2026.