Human remains detection dogs are specialized canines trained specifically to find decomposed human tissue, distinguishing them from other dogs used in law enforcement. These dogs possess the ability to sense the unique odors associated with human decay, allowing them to identify the presence of corpses even when submerged underwater, by detecting gases and fats that rise to the surface. Their keen sense of smell enables them to locate remnants of a decomposed body long after it has been moved, sometimes up to fourteen months later.

In Mary Roach's book, "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers," these dogs demonstrate remarkable skills that go beyond typical search and rescue operations. Their training focuses solely on the scents of human remains, which is critical in various investigative scenarios. The precision and efficacy of these dogs highlight the important role they play in resolving cases involving missing persons and homicides, underscoring their value in forensic science.