Drug detector dog Q&A

What is a drug detector dog? 

A drug detector dog is specially trained to recognize and respond to specific substances such as illegal drugs.
With its excellent sense of smell, which is thousands of times stronger than that of a human, a dog can quickly find hidden narcotics and other contraband that might otherwise be undetectable to customs officers.

How do drug detector dogs find illegal drugs? 

Working in conjunction with specially trained customs officers as handlers, detector dogs have been used for border protection, preventing the illegal transportation of contraband such as narcotic drugs into Japan at international airports, seaports and post offices.

Some canine teams are put to work checking the personal effects of inbound passengers. Other detector dogs are used mainly to detect contraband in imported items arriving in Japan via shipments, international mail service, etc.

When they sense trace elements of illegal drugs or other dangerous substances, detector dogs are trained to respond in a manner easily identified by their human handlers whether the contraband is hidden in clothing, personal effects, luggage or packages.

How are drug detector dogs trained? 

Drug detector dogs are trained through humane means that make the process of learning drug detection fun.

Trainers play games using tightly wrapped towels called “dummies”.

Gradually, smells of contraband items are added to the dummy towels. Dogs learn to target specific odors and are rewarded with opportunities to play with their handlers.

Dogs are motivated to search for scents of targeted drugs so that they can enjoy praise and play time with their trainers.