USDA National Detector Dog Training Center

The training programs at the center last up to 13 weeks, emphasizing the development of a strong bond, mutual confidence, and trust between the detector dog and its handler. Daily training sessions help handlers become attuned to even subtle changes in their dog’s behavior.

Enrichment activities, such as playtime, are also incorporated to ensure the overall well-being of the detector dogs throughout their training.

The USDA National Detector Dog Training Center is a government facility operated by APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine program. Its primary mission is to train specialized dogs and their handlers to protect America’s agricultural and natural resources from harmful pests. These highly trained dog teams inspect passenger baggage, cargo, and parcels at ports of entry, and detect invasive species in the environment.

The center, established in 1984, has grown to include 8 buildings and 100 kennels, located in Newnan, GA. They recruit healthy, friendly, and highly food-driven dogs aged 1-3 years from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private owners.

The training programs, lasting up to 13 weeks, focus on developing a strong bond and mutual trust between the dog and handler. While not a public pet training service, the center does offer dogs for adoption who have either retired from service or did not meet the rigorous training requirements, ensuring they find good homes.

Accomplishments

The center was established in 1984 with an initial setup of one dog and one trainer. On average, 75 percent of the dogs that enter the training program successfully complete it.

How to Get Started!

For those interested in requesting a detector dog, inquiries can be sent via email to usdacanineadoptions@usda.gov. Individuals looking to adopt a dog from the center should reach out to begin the adoption process.

For those wishing to donate a dog to the program, contact the center to provide a dog with a second chance, as many accepted dogs might otherwise have been euthanized.