Cadaver Detection Training Course

Become a cadaver dog trainer and learn what it takes for a successful cadaver dog to aid in police investigations. Each student will learn proper handling techniques, scent theory, search methods, obedience training, and how to conduct searches across varied land terrain and water. Students learn the necessary skills for the team to successfully complete a search. Emergency first aid and other skills are also included. Students will learn how to competently work with the cadaver dog and use the canine’s keen senses to help locate human remains.

Cadaver Detection Training Course

Become a cadaver dog trainer and learn what it takes for a successful cadaver dog to aid in police investigations. Each student will learn proper handling techniques, scent theory, search methods, obedience training, and how to conduct searches across varied land terrain and water. Students learn the necessary skills for the team to successfully complete a search. Emergency first aid and other skills are also included. Students will learn how to competently work with the cadaver dog and use the canine’s keen senses to help locate human remains.

Course Overview

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Become A Certified Cadaver Dog Trainer

With their keen sense of smell, tracking and locating abilities, dogs are uniquely suited to helping police in crime scene investigations, missing person cases, and forensics. Dog Trainer College’s cadaver dog trainer course shows students how to train dogs in locating human remains in all types of situations and during investigations of all types. The course stems from a balanced training perspective.

Apply online and sign up today to become a cadaver dog trainer. This course is available only in the Spring and Summer semesters. It is included in the Master Trainer course.

Both financial aid and/or lodging is available, if needed. You are welcome to bring your own dog/s with you in the course. With our competitive financing options, you can be a part of this amazing course for only $110/month*. Sorry, we do not accept VA education or Voc Rehab benefits.

*Rates and terms will vary according to individual credit score, co-signer (if any), and amount of down payment.

calendar_month Course Dates

This in-person class begins on April 14 and August 11, 2025

This course meets M-F from 9am to approximately 4pm
(Depending upon class size, weather, number of dogs to train, etc).

Classes held at our facility near Spencer, IN

This course is also offered in an online format. Click here for more details.

paid Course Rates

Six-Week Course

$4,900

What You Will Learn

Dog Selection
  • Select solid candidates for HRD dog prospects
  • Enhance the dog’s drives
  • Conduct practical agility
  • Be able to train dogs in both basic and advanced obedience
Cadaver Detection Training
  • Recognizing and teaching the canine’s alert
  • Understand the use of various training aids
  • Utilize training aids effectively, properly, safely, and without contamination
  • Grasp the canine olfactory system
Environmental Factors
  • Comprehend how environment will affect the search
  • Learn about Osphresiology and how it affects the search
  • Grasp basic human decomposition
Case Law & Troubleshooting
  • Comprehend case law that affects canine searches
  • Utilize various detection training methods
  • Understand how to dependably proof a dog
  • Recognize health issues of the canine and be able to administer emergency first aid
  • Develop a thorough search pattern
  • Diagnose training problems and formulate a plan to overcome them
  • Be able to conduct both land and water searches

Curriculum Outline

Training Equipment
  • Training Aids
  • Scent Articles
  • Proper Handling of Training Aids
Teaching Practical Agility
  • Confidence Development
Scent Theory
  • Scent Cones and Pools
  • Varied Terrain & Conditions
Basic and Advanced Obedience
  • On and Off Leash
  • Directions at a Distance
Training Human Remains Detection
  • Basic Human Decomposition
  • Imprinting
  • Search Methods
  • Teaching the Alert
  • Proofing
  • Problem Solving
  • Land Cadaver Dogs
  • Water Cadaver Dogs
HRD Operations
  • Canine First Aid
  • Cadaver Case Law
  • Maintaining Cadaver Dogs
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ENROLL TODAY!

Get the certified training and skills you need to be able to train dogs of all ages and breeds. From training the basic behavior and obedience to even more advanced skills of training service dogs and police K9s, the demand for balanced, real-world dog trainers is growing, so now is the time to get started! Invest in yourself and apply today for in-person or online courses and become a certified dog trainer.

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