Examining shaping of two odor detection dogs

Abstract

The use of odor detection dogs provide many benefits to society. However, little has been done to empirically examine the learning procedure methodology used to train detection dogs. This study aimed to create a quantifiable shaping plan allowing the measurement of initial odor learning for detection dog training. The training progress of two dogs was measured with session-to-session data throughout the learning process, as well as before and after the addition of training rules, in which progression is based on quantified performance during the shaping plan. After the addition of training rules, successful completion of trials became more likely to occur. This study demonstrates that measurement of odor detection training can facilitate odor detection training plans, as well as improve the probability of training success.