Our Research Projects

Advancing Service Dog Capabilities Through Science
At Rocky Mountain Service Dogs (RMSD), we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of service dog training through cutting-edge research. Our goal is to enhance the reliability and precision of medical alert dogs by exploring the science behind their extraordinary abilities.
Current Research Initiatives


🧪 Medical Scent Detection

Our research focuses on identifying and analyzing the unique volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with specific medical conditions. By pinpointing these chemical markers, we aim to improve service dogs' ability to detect and alert to:
Apnea episodes
Neurological events
Mast cell activation and anaphylaxis
Diabetic fluctuations
Cardiac irregularities
Cortisol spikes related to stress and anxiety
Through controlled scent collection and analysis, we are determining whether these conditions share common scent markers or have distinct chemical signatures. This research could revolutionize how medical detection dogs are trained and deployed.


�� Optimizing Training Protocols

We are continuously refining our training methodologies to improve service dog accuracy and reliability. By incorporating evidence-based practices, we ensure that each dog receives the most effective training tailored to real-world medical detection needs.


🔬 Collaborating With Experts

RMSD partners with scientists, medical professionals, and canine behavior specialists to ensure our research is rooted in rigorous scientific principles. These collaborations help us develop innovative approaches that maximize the effectiveness of service dogs in medical alert roles.


Why This Matters

Early detection of medical events can mean the difference between a minor episode and a life-threatening emergency. By harnessing the natural abilities of service dogs and pairing them with scientific research, we are working to improve lives and set new standards in service dog training.


Get Involved Are you a researcher, medical professional, or potential partner interested in collaborating? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us at Research@rockymountainservicedogs.org to explore opportunities for partnership and innovation.