Detection Training

Before the start of our detection training we must evaluate the dog to ensure that they have the qualities of a successful detection dog. If you do not have a dog, we would be happy to help you find one! While our selection process is based on the dog’s individual traits, we often work with Labradors, Dutch Shepherds, Kelpies, Belgian Malinois, Beagles, and German Shepherds.

Detection dogs must be environmentally sound with a high prey and hunt drive; it is also important to make sure the dog is healthy in order to perform the job at-hand.

Maximum K9 Detection offers courses for handlers and dogs in explosives, narcotics, bed bugs, and any other scents you may need to be aware of such as allergens. We utilize the latest methods for preparing K9 teams for a working environment.

Our typical detection program is a 2 month board and train program during which you will be brought in to learn to handle the dog properly. During this program we will  help prepare you and your dog for third party certification.  

The third party certification expense  and scheduling is the responsibility of the handler. Regular training and maintenance is critical prior and after certification.

For an additional fee, we also offer a maintenance program to assist in the upkeep of training and preparation for annual recertifications.

The first phase of our detection training process is odor recognition: we introduce the dog to one scent at a time, then teach the dogs to alert to the odors. We use a passive alert unless an active alert is needed for the job. Once the dog knows the odors and is indicating consistently, we introduce distraction odors and hide the imprinted scents to make them harder to find.

Our programs include a great deal of socialization, obedience, and environmental desensitization to ensure the success of your detection dog. We will bring the dog to various locations and teach them to search buildings, vehicles, baggage, and people in new environments to help them understand that they need to do their job wherever they go.

If Maximum Canine provides you with a dog, we will provide a one-year guarantee for genetic health of hips, elbows, heart, and eyes.

We will also provide a six-month workability guarantee whereby if the dog is not working up to the expectation agreed upon in the contract we will fix any training issues or replace the dog with a dog of equal value at no additional cost.

We expect that owners take the best care possible of their working K9s, including but not limited to feeding, housing, grooming, and any veterinary issues that may arise.