What is the main purpose of the Border Patrol's canine units?

The main purpose of the Border Patrol's canine units is to detect drugs, currency, and humans during operations. These specially trained dogs are invaluable assets, as their acute sense of smell allows them to locate substances and individuals that might otherwise go undetected. Canine units enhance the capability of Border Patrol agents by improving detection rates and facilitating more efficient operations.

The use of canine units particularly stands out in scenarios involving narcotics and illegal trafficking, where speed and accuracy are paramount. The dogs are trained to alert their handlers to the presence of specific odors related to contraband or illegal activities, thereby playing a critical role in law enforcement efforts along the borders.

In contrast, conducting surveillance during operations, facilitating negotiations with migrants, and training new Border Patrol agents are not primary functions of the canine units. While these activities are important within the broader scope of Border Patrol operations, they do not leverage the unique capabilities that the canine units provide.