DHS Customs and Border Protection detector dogs search for which of the following during import and quarantine screening?

• A. Drugs
• B. Specific pathogens of international concern
• C. Items that may contain harmful plant pests and animal diseases
• D. Animal products only

Answer: (C)

Detector dogs used by DHS Customs and Border Protection during import and quarantine screening are trained to alert on odors from materials that could harbor harmful plant pests or animal diseases. Their role is to quickly identify shipments or articles that might spread pests or pathogens, so inspectors can focus their checks where the biosecurity risk is greatest. This aligns with protecting agriculture and animal health at the border, rather than targeting drugs or focusing only on specific named pathogens. The broader target—items that may contain pests or diseases—is why this is the best fit.