Do Mold Detector Dogs Work?

An Inside Look at Variables to Answer This Question

By Matt Skogen

Mold detection canines can be extremely beneficial. They are capable of detecting mold
obscured from sight. A properly selection tested, and trained mold detection canine team adds
another tool to any mold inspector’s toolbox. There are many variables when it comes to the
effectiveness of a mold detection dog. In this article, we will explore the many differences
between mold detector dog training and providers of mold detection dogs.

Many people are suffering from mold-borne illnesses. It is important to ensure that only the
best of the best are working to assist so many in need. Whether the need is to identify
mold in a home or assist someone struggling with mold-borne ailments, a mold detector dog team must provide a quality service. Anything less is a scam.  It is also important that a good mold detection canine be teamed with a handler having proper credentials as a mold inspector having the necessary tools of the trade such as moisture meters, scopes, etc.

Mold Dog Selection Testing

 Obtaining a high-quality mold detection dog begins with a rigorous selection testing process. An
improperly selected dog will harm the reputation of the company by eroding its integrity and the
trust of the consumer. This process should include the following:

1. Overall quality of dog to begin with.
   2. Motivation
   a. Toy
   b. Food
   3. Hunt intensity
   a. Persistence
   b. Independence
   c. Enthusiastic, constant sniffing
   4. Environmental confidence
   a. Slick floors
   b. Loud noises
   c. New environments
   5. Social skills
   a. People
   b. Dogs
   6. Medical Screening
   a. X-rays
   i. Hips, elbow, and spine
   b. Bloodwork/Heartworm/Abnormalities
   c. Fecal exam for parasites or abnormalities
   d. Complete veterinary check-up

 

Mold Detector Dog Training

A mold detector dog should be one of the hardest working in the scent detection industry. Drugs
and explosives are concealed by the human element. Mold manifests itself just about anywhere.
This creates challenges for the mold dog team that should be addressed within a credible handler
course. The training of a mold detection dog should have training objectives that continually
revolve around these fundamental abilities:

1. Selectivity
2. Sensitivity
3. Quality of response
4. Deployment practices having integrity.

 

Mold Sniffing Dog Handler Training

An integral part of any mold detector dog training is the training of the handler. This is normally
where a well-trained mold sniffing dog is pared with a handler and they learn to work together as
a team. A qualified instructor having integrity can be hard to find. So many are obsessed with
being paid and sending a customer to the “wolves”. The critical elements of a mold sniffing dog
handler course are the following:

1. Introduction to scent detection
2. Differences between an alert and final response.
3. Leash handling basics. Tempo, flow, and pattern.
4. Maintaining discipline in the final response.
5. Promoting independence in the search.
6. Deployment practices with integrity.
7. Managing the search area.
8. Training aid integrity
9. Creation of realistic “mold” training areas and presentations. (Productive areas)
10. Mold scent plume characteristics and environmental effects.
11. Proving your mold detector dog can work effectively.

The IronHeart Training Center offers mold detector dogs for sale at ironheartdogs.com. Please
give their staff a call at 913-220-9652.