In basic scent detection training, which phase involves the dog signaling that odor is present?

• A. Search: dog scans area using a methodical pattern
• B. Alert: dog signals to the handler that odor is present
• C. Indicate: dog pinpoints the exact location or source of odor
• D. Reward: handler reinforces the correct indication to solidify behavior

Answer: (B)

In scent detection training, the dog’s signal that odor is present is the alert phase. This stage is all about the dog communicating to the handler that odor has been detected, prompting the next steps. The search phase is the methodical area scanning, the indicate phase is when the dog pinpointing the exact source, and the reward phase reinforces the correct behavior after the indication. So signaling presence to the handler specifically happens during the alert phase.