What is the primary purpose of training dogs to indicate?

The primary purpose of training dogs to indicate is to communicate the strongest source of a target odor. This is essential in narcotics detection work, as handlers rely on their dogs to accurately identify and locate illegal substances. When a dog indicates a specific odor, it signals to the handler that they have detected the presence of the target substance, which can be crucial for effective law enforcement operations. The dog's indication helps ensure that searches are efficient and focused on the areas where drugs or other substances are most likely to be found, thereby facilitating a more successful outcome in narcotics investigations. This communication between the dog and handler is a fundamental aspect of their training and operational effectiveness.