We sought to create a purposive sample that included individuals in each EDC utilization sector with a broad range of experience as a handler, trainer, and/or leader. This qualitative study was led by a working dog veterinary practitioner (BDF) with expertise in EDC care, training, and program management and graduate training in qualitative research, in collaboration with a working dog veterinary practitioner (CMO) with expertise in detection dog research, and a medical sociologist (JES) with expertise in mixed-methods research. These sectors were selected as they represent the primary domains in which EDCs operate. In-depth, semi-structured interviews with EDC experts from four utilization sectors (law enforcement, military, federal, and private) were conducted. The results of this study can be used to inform EDC selection, training, assessment, and deployment, and further research into EDC performance. Utilization-specific differences like patrol or assault training and utilization add additional requirements for some EDCs. EDCs must work through the visual, olfactory, and auditory challenges of the operational environment and the countermeasure efforts of those utilizing explosive devices. Common requirements include expectations to perform at a high level in a variety of manmade and natural physical environments and under a range of climate conditions. To be effective, the EDC team must function well on both ends of the leash, and the handler likely has the greatest impact on the EDC’s performance. Analysis of the data revealed commonalities across all EDCs and utilization-specific differences. The interviews elicited EDC expert perceptions of the performance of the EDC team and the operational requirements in the physical, climate, operational, and explosive odor environments. This study utilized a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews of EDC experts ( n = 17) from across the employment spectrum. EDC practitioners (handlers, trainers, and leaders) possess the institutional knowledge necessary to understand EDC operational requirements. The utilization of and research on EDCs is often based on personal experience or incomplete knowledge. AbstractĮxplosive detection canines (EDC) play an important role in protecting people and property. The results of this study can inform the training, assessment, and utilization of these canines and guide future research in explosive detection canine research. A key requirement is appropriate preparation for the expected operational environment. Searching for explosives is a team effort, and the handler likely has the greatest influence on the canine’s performance. Despite these utilization differences, many requirements common to all explosive detection canines were identified. These canines are used in different ways, and these differences influence their requirements. This study used interviews with these highly experienced individuals to identify the requirements of explosive detection canines in team performance and in the physical, climate, operational, and explosive odor environments. The handlers, trainers, and leaders who work closely with these canines best understand what they are asked to do when tasked to search for explosives. Explosive detection canines safeguard lives and property by searching out and identifying explosive threats.
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