Detector Dogs

Last Modified: September 25, 2024
Black and brown beagle sitting next to a black suitcase with his paw resting on it

The National Detector Dog Training Center trains specially selected dogs and their handlers to safeguard America’s agricultural and natural resources from harmful pests. These dog teams carry out a range of activities, from inspecting passenger baggage, cargo, and parcels at ports of entry to detecting certain invasive species in the environment. Together, they help protect our Nation's food crops, forests, farms, and environment.

APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine program runs the Center, which started in 1984 with just one dog and one trainer. Today, the 17-acre compound includes 8 buildings and 100 kennels. The Center is located in Newnan, GA.

Training Agriculture’s Best Friend

Where Detector Dogs Work

Agriculture's detector dog sniffs out prohibited agricultural products in parcels.

After graduating from the Center, our highly trained dogs and their handlers go to work for APHIS and partner agencies at airport terminals and warehouses, seaports, mail facilities, and in the field. Partners include:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • State departments of agriculture
  • County agricultural commissioner’s offices
  • Foreign agriculture ministries

If you would like to request a detector dog, email us at usdacanineadoptions@usda.gov.

The Center offers dogs for adoption. These dogs either retired from service around 9 years old or did not meet our rigorous training requirements but would make wonderful pets. All adopted dogs are spayed or neutered and have current vaccinations. Reach out today to start the adoption process.

The Center accepts dogs from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private donations. Many of the dogs we bring into the program for training would have otherwise been euthanized. Contact us today to give a dog a second chance.

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