Canine Research Expanded

While dogs have a long and legend reputation of serving the armed forces with distinction, Navy researchers are trying to determine if canine heroes could do more if they are better trained. To that end, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) is studying how canines identify and process certain scents, and determine how long they retain those scents in their memory. Researchers at ONR also would like to determine if it would be possible for military dogs to work with more than one trainer, and perhaps even execute their jobs without being on leashes. Tests are underway in Maryland at the Blossom Point Research Facility and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head.