Just like the handler, the mold dog must be in peak health and well-trained to do its job well. Dogs that are tired, anxious, or unwell may miss alerts or signal inaccurately. A responsible handler ensures the dog has regular vet checkups, proper rest, and balanced work routines. A healthy dog is a focused and reliable dog.

Also important is the dog’s certification and training history. A properly trained mold dog should have gone through a professional scent-detection program, including exposure to various building types, search conditions, and distractions. Ask whether the team participates in ongoing training, as skills can fade without regular reinforcement. Mold dogs—like all working dogs—need consistent practice to stay accurate and effective.