Research Progress of Using Canine Olfactory Search for Human Remains

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Animal Behavior
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Accurate location of discarded and buried human remains is crucial in murder investigations.
• Various methods exist, but canine olfactory search offers a time-effective and non-invasive approach.
• Dogs are highly valued search tools in forensic investigations due to their keen sense of smell.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the fundamental principles of canine olfactory search for human remains.
• To review the application of training canine search techniques in forensic investigations.
• To prospect the future applications of canine olfactory search for human remains.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and summarization of relevant scientific literature.
• Analysis based on the theory of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced during human decomposition.
• Review of training methodologies using various scent sources like blood, tissue, and odor substitutes.

Main Results:

• Canine olfactory search leverages the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during decomposition.
• Training protocols involve diverse scent sources, including human biological materials and synthetic odorants.
• The technique has proven effective in various forensic scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Canine olfactory search is a scientifically validated and practical method for locating human remains.
• Future advancements lie in VOC detection, improved odor substitutes, and refined training tactics.
• This review provides a reference for advancing canine olfactory search research in forensic science.