About The Program

Auburn University’s Canine Detection Research Institute (CDRI) is uniquely qualified to conduct state-of-the-art research and training.  Established in 1989, CDRI has over 20 years of directed research activities encompassing canine detection and the process of canine olfaction. The Auburn University program is the largest dedicated canine detection research program in theUnited States and its associated Canine Detection Training Center (CDTC) is one of the largest canine detection training programs outside of the federal government. Also CDRI & CDTC are the only programs affiliated with a Veterinary Sports Medicine Program (the only one of its kind) and a College of Veterinary Medicine.  The CDRI & CDTC are organizational components of the Animal Health and Performance Program at the College of Veterinary Medicine.

The College has the staff and resources to provide extensive program management, research, veterinary care, education, and project controls support to ensure proper execution of all projects.  The Veterinary Sports Medicine Program provides cutting edge physical conditioning, nutritional program design, veterinary care, canine performance research, and support to prepare our dogs for all terrains and climates. The trainers at CDTC are experts in training instruction, providing problem solving or training solutions, and innovating new ways to use detection dogs. Thus CDRI & CDTC has the necessary knowledge and support to conduct state-of-the-art research, provide unmatched training innovations/solutions, and produce the best detection dogs possible through application of the strictest veterinary, training, breeding, physical fitness, and performance standards.

The CDRI & CDTC are recognized both nationally and internationally for their research, training, conditioning, and innovation in related fields.  The CDRI & CDTC has a dedicated 24,000 sqft instructional complex, state-of-the-art canine kennels that are compliant with all university, state and federal guidelines (IACUC and AALAC approved) and over 200 acres of property consisting of urban, suburban and forested areas to allow for maximum training flexibility.  The CDTC allows law enforcement and military personnel to train with canines in a discrete setting to obtain cutting-edge instruction on improved canine detection, application and maintenance. CDRI & CDTC combined have more than 20 full time professional canine detection research and canine detection training staff on hand with more than 150 years of cumulative canine training and research experience and dedicated facilities to successfully meet the requirements of any of our clients needs. The net effect is that Auburn University has the experience, dedicated facilities and staff availability to successfully execute small and large scale projects.