Guangzhou Customs drug detection dogs wow crowd at open day

The dogs have also helped uncover 31 cases involving endangered species products, leading to the confiscation of nearly 14 kg of ivory and other protected animal derivatives.

The anti-smuggling canine unit currently employs five staff members, who train and handle a team of seven dogs: four specialized in drug detection, one in firearms detection, one in endangered-species search, and one in riot control.

For local resident Li, who attended with her child, the event was eye-opening. "We saw firsthand how the dogs detect drugs and learned about the clever — but illegal — ways smugglers try to hide them," she said. "It broadened my child's understanding and taught us practical skills to stay alert. Most importantly, it reminded everyone how vital it is to reject drugs entirely."