FAQ

Scientific research shows that in 90% of cases, they achieve better results than other methods. Search dogs can be up to 10 times more effective than hair traps, camera traps, and scent traps combined. They can also be used in conjunction with other methods (such as drones, for example). 

This depends heavily on the dog’s training level, age, temperature and humidity, search behavior, and the challenges of the terrain. For example, a highly motivated search dog looking for wolf droppings can search intensively for 1 to 2 hours in moderate temperatures while maintaining a high chance of success.

This depends on various factors, but some dogs can remain in service until they are 10 years old or older. Searching over long distances can become a problem for older dogs. The dog’s temperament, health, and the nature of the work determine how long it can continue to work in a way that is respectful of its well-being. 

The time required depends on the dog and the scent it is supposed to detect. On average, it takes 1–2 years to train a new dog to become a fully operational search dog in the field. Teaching a dog to recognize a scent or to discriminate between scents in controlled conditions usually happens fairly quickly, over the course of a days or weeks. The degree of generalization must also be trained—for example, should the dog indicate all ant species or just one? But that’s just the beginning. The challenges in the field require step-by-step training, which extends the training period. For example, the search target is often not immediately visible to the handler, making it difficult for him or her to confirm whether the indication was correct. This requires a specific approach to keep the dog motivated. The search strategy must also be taught: should the dog intensively search small areas, at height, in bushes, etc.? A dog that has already been trained on a different scent can be trained on multiple scents, in which case the transition to a new scent takes less time.

The cost of deploying detection dogs depends on various factors. Currently, the sector is primarily staffed by volunteers, along with a few professional trainers who train the volunteers. Volunteers often work for a modest expense allowance. Abroad, there are several professional trainers who deploy detection dogs for environmental purposes. Their rates range from 500 to 1,000 euros per day of deployment.  

The costs associated with a detection dog include: the time spent by the handler/trainer, providing a training site, caring for the dogs (food, medical expenses, etc.), equipment (search harness, etc.), equipment tailored to the targets to be detected (eye or paw protection, etc.), the handler’s expenses (travel, etc.), …

Detection dogs can be used in the agricultural sector for various applications. They can detect pests and diseases, such as harmful insects, larvae, or pathogens that can damage crops. Detecting illegal substances, such as unauthorized pesticides. Protecting wildlife: to prevent machinery from harming protected wildlife in fields, dogs can be deployed as a preventive measure. 

Research on desert tortoises has shown that there is no difference in the movements of tortoises found by ecological detection dogs compared to those found by humans.  Nor were more predators attracted to the area. However, this must be thoroughly monitored separately for each species. The goal is to minimize the impact on the target species, even when the dog indicates its presence. For example, a dog searching for amphibians must not make contact with the animal. 

While hunting dogs are trained to search for prey or shot game and, if necessary, retrieve it, ecological detection dogs are expected to leave the animal they are searching for undisturbed and simply indicate that the animal is there, in the vicinity of the trainer. This requires specialized training.