ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly discusses complex aspects incorporated into the scientifically based, pragmatic, and efficient training of highly reliable scent discrimination canines.
Acclimation is defined as the act of an individual dog becoming accustomed to new conditions and surroundings. Goals of acclimation position the dog to increase overall well-being and pleasurable experiences, which reduces stress, thereby helping the dog adapt to the day-to-day interactions it will experience. In a scientific setting, this can also “minimize experimental variability” (Meunier 2006). Accomplishing acclimation is similar to any other training process and must be approached thoughtfully, carefully, and with the utmost focus on the difficulties, which present challenges confronting the needs of the dog.
