What kind of dogs are there at customs? - briefly
At customs, you will find trained detection dogs, primarily German Shepherds and Labradors. These breeds are renowned for their exceptional sense of smell and ability to detect various substances, including narcotics and explosives.
What kind of dogs are there at customs? - in detail
At customs, you will primarily encounter two types of dogs: detection dogs and patrol dogs.
Detection dogs are specially trained to sniff out contraband items such as drugs, explosives, and certain types of food or agricultural products that may be prohibited from entering a country. These dogs undergo rigorous training to develop their exceptional sense of smell and learn to identify specific scents associated with these illicit substances. Common breeds used for detection include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Belgian Malinois due to their intelligence, obedience, and strong work ethic.
Patrol dogs, on the other hand, are trained for general security purposes at customs. They serve as a visible deterrent against potential threats and are capable of apprehending suspects if necessary. These dogs are typically larger breeds with a strong protective instinct, such as German Shepherds or Rottweilers. Their primary role is to maintain order and ensure the safety of both passengers and customs officials.
In addition to these main types, some customs departments may also use search and rescue dogs for specialized tasks. These dogs are trained to locate people in distress situations, which can be crucial in large-scale emergencies or disasters that might occur within a customs area.
Overall, the presence of these highly skilled canines at customs plays a vital role in maintaining security, enforcing regulations, and safeguarding the public.