Mussel Dogs

Mussel Dogs is a dog training business operated by Debi DeShon, owner of Dogs With Jobs, LLC, specializing in detection dog training for aquatic invasive species like quagga, zebra, and golden mussels. While the primary focus is on professional detection teams for environmental agencies, the business also trains dogs for rescue organizations in diverse detection roles including bed bugs, narcotics, TCA (cork taint), Brettanomyces, and PTSD service dogs. Many of their dogs are rescued from shelters and retrained for specialized work. Although Mussel Dogs does not offer traditional pet obedience training for dog owners, their expertise in positive reinforcement-based detection training, proven through decades of experience with high-stakes canine teams, reflects a deep understanding of canine behavior and reward-based methods. Their sister company, Dogs With Jobs, offers dog-training services and a pet supply store, indicating broader canine training support resources.

Debi DeShon has over 30 years of experience training dogs for television, detection, and service roles, including founding four Interquest Detection Canines franchises. She holds an Associate’s degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management and has trained detection dogs in collaboration with Greendog Project Rescue. The training methods used are based on positive reinforcement, as evidenced by their signature “Sniff, Sit, Play!” approach for mussel detection dogs.

While Mussel Dogs does not directly offer pet training services to the general public, dog owners may benefit from their affiliated resources through Dogs With Jobs, including training support, supplies, and rescue-based training programs that emphasize ethical, reward-based techniques.

Mussel Dogs also provides public education on aquatic invasive species and offers classroom programs for students, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement and responsible animal training practices.

Accomplishments

Debi DeShon founded Mussel Dogs in 2008 and has trained multiple certified canine teams for detection of aquatic invasive species. She has been permitted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to possess invasive mussels for training. She has trained dogs for iconic films like “Beethoven,” operated four Interquest Detection Canines franchises since 1999, and collaborates with Greendog Project Rescue. Mussel Dogs participated in the filming of the pilot episode for “Blue Collar Dogs.”