Bed Bug Detection Dogs

Bed bug detection dogs are dogs that are specially trained by handlers to identify the scent of bed bugs.



With the increased focus on green pest management and integrated pest management, bed bug detection dogs are gaining popularity in North America. Dogs are a safer alternative to pesticide use as a management strategy. If operators can find out exactly where bed bugs are located, they can minimize the area that needs to be sprayed. Dogs smell in parts per trillion, something a human cannot do, and detect bed bugs through all lifestyle phases from eggs to nymphs to adults.


Bed bug detection dogs are relatively new. The National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association states that there are over 100 dogs currently working in the U.S., but this number is increasing. Vancouver-based CARE Pest & Wildlife Control is one of the first Canadian companies to use canine detection for bed bugs.


With the increase in global travel and shared living accommodations, bed bugs have become more prevalent. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency held a bed bug summit[5] in April 2009 to address the ongoing problem of bed bugs and how to eradicate them. The certification of bed bug detection dogs was discussed.


For more information on how to get rid of bed bugs or how to avoid them, see Getting Rid of Bed Bugs...