Because of their sensitivity to the smell of food, Beagle Brigade dogs live in kennels, not at home with their human partners. A typical workday may include some combination of commuting to and from the airport, sniffing the baggage of international travelers entering the United States, conducting a demonstration at a school, and visiting the veterinarian. Beagle Brigade dogs are fed a high protein diet and rest for at least 20 minutes of each work hour.

A PPQ canine officer develops a close relationship with his or her dog and is aware of even minor changes in its behavior. USDA¹s detector dogs must be happy on and off the job to be successful. APHIS prefers to find kennels that have indoor and outdoor kennel runs, 24-hour access, high standards of maintenance and hygiene, good security, and a veterinarian on call. Onsite grooming facilities are another plus. The dogs receive complete health exams twice a year in addition to routine veterinary care. The quality of life for the team is important. The dogs are not really working

Typically, a Beagle Brigade dog's career spans about 6 to 10 years. If a beagle loses long-term interest in working or seems more timid or tired than normal, it may be time for retirement. When a dog is retired, its last partner usually keeps the dog as a pet. If the PPQ officer does not keep the dog, APHIS finds another suitable home. There is generally a list of people waiting to adopt a beagle.

Teamwork is important in the Beagle Brigade. PPQ canine officers are responsible for conducting continuing training programs for their detector dogs as well as for the general well being of the dog on and off the job. The canine officer completes required data-gathering procedures and submits appropriate reports. The Beagle Brigade is also part of the larger APHIS team that safeguards American agriculture. The PPQ canine officers are expected to play an active role organizing opportunities to get the larger APHIS message out to the public.

• The AQI Program at Airports
• Why Beagles?
  
• Beagle Brigade Membership and Training
• A Dog's Life
  
• Public Outreach
  
• More Detector Dog Programs
  
• Other APHIS Dog Programs
• Other Working Dogs
  
• Conclusion