The dogs have been specially trained at a U.S. Transportation Security Administration facility located at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Officials say the 10-week course is an effort to increase explosives detection capabilities in cargo facilities at airports across the United States, the TSA reported.

Wednesday three TSA canine teams, which include one dog and one handler, began duty at the Dulles Airport. The three teams are part of an initiative to certify 400 explosives detection canine teams.

"Canine teams are one of the quickest, most efficient means of detecting explosives," John Lenihan, Dulles federal security director, said in a statement.

"The three new TSA teams provide flexibility in searching air cargo and the ability to surge resources to other areas when necessary."