Top cop dog: Drug-busting Louie retires

After eight years of sniffing out illicit substances at Brisbane airport, Australian Federal Police drug detection dog Louie is putting up his paws.

The drug-busting black labrador (although he's gone a bit grey around the muzzle) finished on a high on Tuesday, being commended as the AFP's top dog by federal Justice Minister Michael Keenan.

Louie has earned it - during his near decade at the airport he's sniffed out $20 million worth of drugs and $2.5 million in illicit cash.

On presenting a certificate of commendation, Mr Keenan hailed detection dogs like Louie as the front line in preventing illegal material coming into Australia.

"He's the most successful of the AFP's canine team, and he's the first member of our canine team to receive a commendation," Mr Keenan said.

"The statistics he achieved is a great testament to how effective these dogs are at our borders."

Louie is described by his handler, Senior Sergeant Steve Shackell, as a "laidback" dog who took things in his stride, from tense searches of luggage and vehicles, to sticky pats from kids on their way to a plane.

Sen Sgt Shackell admitted at nine years old Louie had become a little jaded after eight years on the force.

"The dogs work on a work-play arrangement, they enjoy what they do," he said.

"Once their handlers notice they're not having as much fun, that's when we say 'time to come home, bud' which is what I've done with Louie."

Although he's retiring, the partnership won't be broken, with Louie now settling down at home with Sen Sgt Shackell.

The officer will now take up a new partnership with bomb detection dog Nitro, although it's not known if old dog Louie can teach the young pup some tricks.

If the statistics are any indication he won't need it; last year alone canine detection teams intercepted almost 300kg of drugs, more than 430 weapons, and $1 million in cash at Australian airports.