Insights from the field: Evaluating handler feedback on training practices and standards on canine detection testing

Explosive detection canine (EDC) teams are widely used to find explosives and protect public safety, but training practices and standards vary across agencies/organizations. This study investigated how EDC handlers train their dogs, their familiarity with national standards, and what challenges they face in preparing for effective operation. Data from a nationwide survey of handlers (102 unique responses, 62 complete), across 29 states, and in-depth interviews were conducted during two field evaluations of the ANSI/ASB Standard 092 Standard for Training and Certification of Canine Detection of Explosives. Results revealed most handlers train regularly and value certification; however, training structures differ widely. Many handlers reported limited familiarity with national standards and scientific research, and some lacked access to formal training guides, realistic scenarios, or certain explosive materials needed for effective practice. Handlers emphasized the importance of practical training that reflects real-world conditions, including complex environments, low target prevalence, and presence of distractors. They also reported challenges related to limited access to true training materials, uncertainty about how odors change or how canines generalize between like odors, time and resource constraints, and differences between testing formats and field work. Concurrently, many viewed structured evaluations as helpful for identifying weaknesses and improving performance. Overall, the findings suggest successful detection depends on multiple factors working together: consistent standards, access to resources, realistic training, scientific guidance, and a strong handler-canine partnership. Improving communication between researchers, standards organizations, and practitioners, as well as increasing outreach and access to evidence-based information, may help strengthen training, reduce errors, and improve operational readiness.