The use of dogs to decent the scent of bed bugs has become increasingly common in the last few years. In the same way that Police and Customs dogs are trained to detect drugs and firearms samples are used to train dogs to locate infestations.
Dogs have the ability to detect trace amounts of faint odours as their smell receptors are more numerous than humans and can reportedly detect smells at concentrations 100 million times lower than humans.
Ideal for detecting low level infestations and screening large areas detection dogs can be a useful tool in identifying an infestation.
Scent detection alone however can not be considered to be confirmation of an infestation which can only be done by finding the signs of an infestation.
To be accurate and efficient in detecting infestations the scent detection dog and handler MUST work together in partnership and train on a regular basis and should only be rewarded on confirmed infestations detected.
In selecting a bed bug scent detection team you should always confirm the credentials of the dogs trainer, confirm the accuracy and experience of the handler (always be cautious of any claims of 100% accuracy) and finally the methods used to positively confirm an infestation. If they are prepared to treat the area on the recommendation / findings of a dog alone then you are unlikely to be getting the highest possible standard of treatment.
The training of bed bugs dogs is a specific skill and requires access to live bed bug material and appropriate training environments it is not something that should be attempted by anyone without experience in training dogs for scent detection.
Checklist
To help you confirm an infestation prior to treatment starting we have developed an inspection confirmation check list in conjunction with BedBugger.com. It is designed to help you ensure that an infestation is confirmed through identification of the physical signs of bed bugs.
Infestation Confirmation Checklist
Links and Resources for bed bug detection dogs: