Sniffing out what Australians know and believe about Drug Detector Dogs

The ways in which drugs are policed, differs from country to country, with Drug Detector Dogs (DDDs) a commonly used detection strategy in Australia. However, their effectiveness has been scrutinized by Australian media and research. Despite this, their work and lives on the job continue to be portrayed in a positive light on popular television shows such as Border Security. The aim of the current study was to ascertain public perceptions and knowledge surrounding DDDs using a sample of 129 Australians. Results revealed participants believed DDDs were equally as interesting and as happy as companion dogs. However, while there was general support for both dog roles in human lives, participants were relatively less supportive of the use of DDDs. Importantly, findings suggest general Australians have little awareness of the lives of DDDs off the job, including housing and handling practices that directly impact animal welfare. We suggest that greater transparency around these aspects of the dogs' lives and welfare experience be made publicly available so that the DDD industry can maintain their social license to operate.

Automated summary

The use of Drug Detector Dogs (DDDs) as a detection strategy is common in Australia, but their effectiveness has been questioned. Despite this, DDDs are portrayed positively in popular TV shows. The aim of this study was to understand public perceptions and knowledge about DDDs. Results showed that participants found DDDs equally interesting and happy as companion dogs, but were less supportive of their use. Importantly, there was a lack of awareness about the lives of DDDs off duty, which could impact their welfare. Greater transparency is suggested to maintain the social license of the DDD industry.