Which phase of scent detection training involves pinpointing the exact location or source of odor?

• A. Search
• B. Alert
• C. Indicate
• D. Reward

Answer: (C)

Indicate phase is about marking the exact odor source. After the dog learns to search an area and to alert when odor is detected somewhere, training moves to having the dog communicate the precise location of that source so the handler can pinpoint it. This phase uses a specific, defined signal at the exact source—such as the dog settling, pawing, or noseing the target—so the target can be identified quickly and accurately. The goal is to shift from broad detection to precise localization, which makes operations efficient and reduces ambiguity. The other steps support detection and signaling: searching covers scanning the area for odor, and alerting signals that odor is present somewhere, while rewarding reinforces the correct behaviors throughout the process.