Motivator and body reading as a primary factor in the training of substance detection dogs

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to investigate the correlation between motivation and body language in the training of detection dogs, aiming to ascertain the importance of an adequate understanding of these attributes in the dog's performance, as well as in its well-being and, consequently, lead to better operational results. The study is presented in the form of bibliographic, applied, exploratory and qualitative research, providing an examination of the effects that motivators and body language have on the performance of detection dogs. In addition, specific theories were used to demonstrate that stress in detecting dogs is a result of the combination of physical, emotional and psychological factors. Excessive training, lack of motivation, adverse conditions and inadequate teaching methods can cause stress, harming both the dogs' well-being and the efficiency of the training. These signals include licking the lips, looking away, yawning, stretching the body, and other body movements that indicate discomfort, insecurity, or frustration. If the dog trainer fails to notice these signals, the dog may become stressed or unmotivated, negatively impacting on its performance during training.