This podcast is all about Detection Dogs we talking training, working the dog in the real world, starting a new dog or have an experienced dog, this show is for you. Calling all Detection dogs, Sniffer Dogs, those who compete in Nosework / Scentwork sports. If you work a detection dog that sniffs out bombs, drugs, guns, cell phones, electronic devices or anything else this podcast is for you
This podcast is all about Detection Dogs we talking training, working the dog in the real world, starting a new dog or have an experienced dog, this show is for you. Calling all Detection dogs, Sniffer Dogs, those who compete in Nosework / Scentwork sports. If you work a detection dog that sniffs out bombs, drugs, guns, cell phones, electronic devices or anything else this podcast is for you
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford welcomes Melinda Ruopp — a leader in the science of detection dog training and deployment.
Melinda brings decades of experience in research, program development, and scientific evaluation of canine teams. From field-based decision-making to the nuanced variables behind effective training, she breaks down:
Whether you’re a handler, trainer, or program supervisor, this conversation bridges the gap between operational demands and scientific rigor.
📌 Sponsored by DogBase.co
🐾 Become a member at FordK9.com
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with veteran detection dog trainer and educator Jeff Meyer for a thought-provoking conversation about building clarity in K9 training.
Jeff shares insights from years in the field, including:
Whether you're a new handler or seasoned instructor, this episode is packed with honest reflections, tactical advice, and a no-BS approach to advancing your detection work.
🔗 Brought to you by our sponsor:
👉 DogBase.co
– The ultimate platform for managing detection dog training records and progress.
🎓 Want to go deeper?
Join the Ford K9 Members Program at https://www.fordk9.com
for exclusive lectures, operational training, and instructor-led feedback.
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Intro: Cameron welcomes Jeff Meyer
03:52 – Jeff’s background & foundational training beliefs
11:41 – “Find the hide” mindset: why it fails
18:27 – Clean reps vs. over-challenging the dog
25:03 – Handler timing, pressure, and building confidence
30:44 – Ego vs. outcome: learning to let go
38:18 – Why 9/10 reps should be simple, not flashy
45:02 – The power of being still: handler restraint
49:35 – Real world performance vs. training theatrics
56:41 – Odor Pays: reinforcing decision-making
1:01:52 – Jeff’s advice to new handlers and instructors
1:05:20 – Outro & closing thoughts
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, Cameron Ford has a conversation about variable reinforcement with Natalie Morris — a detection dog trainer, evaluator, and educator who brings unmatched passion and clarity to the K9 community.
Together, they explore:
Whether you're a seasoned handler or just getting started, Natalie breaks down complex concepts like variable reinforcement into actionable insights. Her unique approach to education, her transition from handler to national evaluator, and her deep respect for both dogs and humans make this a must-listen.
🐶 Sponsored by DogBase – Optimize your detection dog program with powerful tracking & performance tools:
👉 https://dogbase.co
🎓 Become a Ford K9 Member – Unlock exclusive training content, lectures, and workshops:
👉 https://fordk9.com/members
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction & Natalie’s K9 Journey
04:55 - Building Trust Between Handler and Dog
09:10 - Science vs Field Experience in Training
15:45 - Evaluating Teams: What Really Matters
22:30 - Common Handler Mistakes in Documentation
28:55 - Teaching Through Failure: Canine Psychology
35:40 - Advice for New Trainers Entering the Industry
42:12 - Why Membership-Based Training Changes the Game
46:45 - Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Opportunities
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith for an honest and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, training, and the evolving role of K9 units in modern law enforcement.
Chief Smith reflects on:
This is a must-listen for handlers, supervisors, and anyone who wants to understand how high-level leadership decisions affect the boots on the ground — and the paws on the pavement.
🔗 Sponsored by: Dogbase.co
🎓 Learn more or become a member at: FordK9.com
Chapters
00:00 - Intro: Chief Eric Smith Joins the Show
01:15 - How Eric Got Into Law Enforcement
04:40 - Early K9 Influences & First Impressions
08:20 - Lessons From the Streets: Patrol Before K9
12:45 - Working With K9s in Real-Time Scenarios
16:30 - A Look Inside Orlando PD’s K9 Unit
20:40 - Finding the Right Handler: More Than a Test
25:05 - Why K9s Aren’t Just Tools — They’re Partners
28:20 - Training Evolutions: Old School vs New School
32:50 - Mental Health & K9 Handlers
37:40 - Leadership Lessons: From Handler to Chief
42:10 - How Chiefs Can Better Support K9 Units
46:35 - Advice for Aspiring Handlers or Leaders
51:00 - Rapid Fire Round: Favorite Dog Stories & More
55:45 - Final Thoughts: What Makes a Good K9 Team
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, Cameron Ford welcomes back Tim Houweling to share lessons learned from his recent Texas flood deployment — a 21-day operation that tested handlers, dogs, and entire teams across 120 miles of devastation.
Tim walks us through:
🐕🦺 The realities of long deployments in extreme heat and humidity
💡 Lessons on conditioning, acclimatization, and handler fitness
⚖️ The debate over rewarding dogs during real deployments
📋 Why blanks and negative searches matter just as much as finds
🌊 The unique challenges of water, mud, and wide-area flood searches
This episode dives deep into how handlers adapt, how dogs contextualize environments, and what it really means to trust your K9 when lives are on the line.
🔗 Learn More and Support:
👉 HD Search Dog Fund (Upcoming Disaster Dog Training)
👉 The S.I.R.E.N. Project (First Responder Mental Health)
💼 Sponsors:
🚨 Become a Member:
Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & Why Tim Returns
01:20 – Texas Flood Deployment Overview
03:30 – First Responders & Task Force Activation
05:45 – Mission Ready Packages & Team Makeup
08:15 – Challenges of 21-Day Deployments
12:00 – Heat, Acclimatization & K9 Conditioning
17:20 – Trusting Your Dog in Real Searches
21:45 – The Debate: Rewarding in Real Deployments
28:00 – Reading Dogs Under Stress & Context Cues
34:00 – Why Blanks & Negative Searches Matter
40:30 – Real-World vs Training Environments
45:00 – Handler Fitness & Long-Term Readiness
50:00 – Takeaways & Lessons for K9 Handlers
55:00 – Closing Thoughts & Resources
Check Dog Base Out: https://www.dogbase.co/
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Almog, founder of DogBase.co, a groundbreaking platform bringing data and analytics into the world of dog training. They dive into how trainers can leverage technology to track performance, identify training gaps, and ultimately build more effective working dogs.
From detection dogs to sport and service dogs, Almog explains how DogBase is changing the way handlers and trainers approach their craft. Cameron and Almog also discuss the challenges of modern training, how data can help trainers avoid bias, and what the future looks like when innovation meets decades of K9 expertise.
Whether you’re a professional trainer, handler, or just a dog enthusiast, this conversation offers a fascinating look at how science and technology are reshaping the canine training world.
00:00 – Intro & Guest Introduction
02:15 – Almog’s Background & DogBase Origin Story
07:40 – Why Data Matters in Dog Training
13:20 – Overcoming Bias with Technology
20:45 – How Trainers Use DogBase in Real Life
28:10 – Detection Dogs & Practical Applications
35:30 – Lessons Learned from Early Adopters
42:55 – The Future of K9 Training & Technology
49:00 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find DogBase
Is your dog confused — or are you confusing your dog?
In this episode of K9's Talking Scents, Cameron Ford sits down with Ilse Duineveld, a working dog trainer, researcher, and behavioral expert who’s shaking up how we think about detection training.
Together, they dive into:
Why "odor load" might be sabotaging your dog’s ability to stay focused
The importance of clarity and consistency in scent work
How her research is reframing the way we approach K9 learning
Whether training multiple odors at once is helping… or hurting
How to build better focus and reduce noise in your training sessions
The line between operational readiness and overcomplication
Ilse is a blend of academic rigor and practical expertise — and this conversation is a must-listen for any handler who wants to go beyond reps and get to the why behind behavior.
📍 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Meet Ilse Duineveld: Her background in research & working dogs
02:45 - What’s “odor load” and why does it matter?
06:10 - Can you train too many odors at once?
09:55 - Odor clarity vs. odor confusion
14:32 - Ilse’s research on behavior, detection, and learning
18:47 - Building operational reliability in working dogs
22:18 - Is focus more important than reps?
26:10 - Science vs. handler instinct: where they meet
29:45 - Final thoughts and where to find Ilse’s work
Upcoming Seminars: https://www.fordk9.com/events/
Stratos K9 Application: https://stratosk9.com/work-for-us/
Few figures have had as lasting an impact on the K9 world as Jerry Bradshaw — founder of Tarheel K9, co-creator of PSA, and host of the Controlled Aggression podcast. In this special episode, Jerry sits down with K9's Talking Scents to reflect on the evolution of dog sports, detection dog methodologies, and the delicate balance between science and experience in modern training.
We go deep into:
If you’ve ever debated technique, struggled with online misinformation, or wondered how the greats think about training philosophy — this episode is for you.
00:00 - Intro & Meet Jerry Bradshaw
01:05 - The Origin of PSA
08:10 - Evolving Dog Sports & Breeds
14:20 - Why PSA Skipped Detection
18:14 - Changes in Detection Work
28:39 - Science vs Experience
35:40 - Simplifying What Matters
45:07 - Detection Training Methods
55:00 - Social Media & Misinterpretation
59:12 - The Value of In-Person Learning
01:07:03 - Advice for Handlers
01:13:15 - Double Blind & Real-World Readiness
01:17:39 - Collaboration Over Division
01:21:26 - Where to Find Jerry
01:22:55 - Outro
In this moving episode of K9's Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Zach Skow, co-founder of Marley’s Mutts and the groundbreaking Pawsitive Change Program.
Zach shares his personal battle with addiction—and how it ultimately led him to a purpose-driven mission: rescuing shelter dogs and pairing them with incarcerated individuals to create a powerful cycle of healing and redemption.
Through Pawsitive Change, inmates train rescue dogs inside California prisons, giving both a second chance at life. These dogs don’t just find homes—they sometimes go on to become working K9s in security, detection, and emotional support.
In this episode:
This one goes beyond dog training. It’s about purpose, second chances, and using K9s to create real social change.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro & Meet Zach Skow
02:45 Zach’s Journey Through Addiction & Recovery
07:12 The Origin of Marley’s Mutts
10:28 Launching the Pawsitive Change Prison Program
15:41 How Inmates Train Rescue Dogs Behind Bars
20:03 Giving Purpose to the Forgotten—Dogs and Humans
25:36 Stigma Around Bully Breeds in K9 Work
31:19 Real Stories of Redemption from the Program
37:44 Dogs as a Catalyst for Healing and Reform
41:12 Pitbulls, Detection Work & the Future of K9 Training
45:10 What’s Next for Marley’s Mutts & Pawsitive Change
Upcoming Seminars: https://www.fordk9.com/events/
Stratos K9 Application: https://stratosk9.com/work-for-us/
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Jonathan “Monte” to unpack his incredible journey from Marine Corps infantry to canine handler on the frontlines.
Monte shares what it’s really like to work an off-leash IED detection dog in combat zones, including the high-stakes missions, life-or-death decisions, and the gut-wrenching moments that still haunt him. From learning to trust his dog under fire to dealing with the aftermath of critical mistakes, Monty gives an unfiltered look into the pressures K9 handlers face that most people never see.
They also dive into:
•The transition from military to contracting work
•Why handler-dog bonding off the clock actually saves lives
•The problem with ego in the K9 world
•How modern training is evolving (but still has a long way to go)
This episode is packed with real-world lessons, vulnerable moments, and powerful advice for dog handlers in any discipline.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro & Meet Monty
01:18 Off-Leash IED Dog Program Explained
05:06 Combat Missions & Game-Changing Experiences
09:07 Life-or-Death Mistakes & Lasting Regrets
14:35 The Pressure of Reading Your Dog in Combat
18:14 The Power of Trust & Bonding with Your Dog
25:30 Contracting World vs. Military Dog Work
33:00 Why You Should Live with Your Dog
39:00 Ego, Open-Mindedness & Industry Growth
43:09 The Dangerous Role of Compulsion Training
46:00 How the K9 Industry is Evolving (Slowly)
51:42 Monty’s Journey into Social Media & Storytelling
In this episode of K9s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Deni McNulty—a professional detection dog handler whose journey into the K9 world breaks all the traditional molds. With no military or law enforcement background, Deni started with a Craigslist shepherd and zero working dog experience. Today, she’s touring with Broadway’s Hamilton as a bomb detection dog handler with her partner Tanner.
Deni shares how she transformed personal curiosity into a thriving professional career, what it was like transitioning from sport detection to high-stakes contract work, and the hard-won lessons she learned handling everything from “a Yorkie to a psycho Malinois.” You’ll hear candid insights about handler-dog bonding, private sector challenges, and why real-world readiness goes far beyond a perfect sit.
Whether you're a handler, trainer, or just detection-dog-curious, this episode is packed with wisdom, humility, and tactical takeaways for anyone looking to break into the field from the civilian side.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro – Breaking Into K9 Detection Without Law Enforcement
01:18 Deni’s Journey: From Craigslist Puppy to Nose Work
06:50 Landing the First Detection Dog Job
08:14 Handling Her First Real Working Dog
14:16 Finding Tanner & Transitioning to Labs
18:19 Private Sector vs Law Enforcement K9 Work
25:41 Raising and Training Tanner from Puppy to Pro
34:51 Life on the Road as a Broadway Bomb Dog Handler
39:07 Real World vs Training: Reading Your Dog in Action
50:00 Continuing Education & Advice for New Handlers
Upcoming Seminars: https://www.fordk9.com/events/
Stratos K9 Application: https://stratosk9.com/work-for-us/
Unlock the secrets of detection dog training and discover innovative techniques revolutionizing the field! Join us as we welcome Dr. Lauren DeGreeff and Dr. Lindsay Waldrop, whose groundbreaking research into the sniffing prowess of dogs offers fresh insights into their remarkable abilities. Delve into the intriguing world of experimental and computational fluid dynamics, where Dr. Waldrop's passion for dogs and science converge, showing how breeds and skull shapes affect performance. Dr. DeGreeff shares her exciting transition to Florida International University, where her expanded research group delves into projects from explosives detection to human remains.
Explore the complexities of training detection dogs and the significance of realistic scenarios, as we highlight challenges teams face transitioning to real-world searches. Discover how collaborations with institutions like Texas Tech and updates from OSAC are setting new standards in dog certification, ensuring rigorous evidence-based practices. Fascinating experiments reveal how scent detection and training methods evolve, from using smoke machines to visualize odor plumes to innovative training setups that encourage natural sniffing behaviors.
Venture into the future with us as we discuss the intersection of AI and canine capabilities, where emerging technologies promise to enhance detection dogs' roles in law enforcement and beyond. Learn how AI is beginning to assist handlers with data-driven insights and imagine a future where it pinpoints specific odors detected by dogs. As we reflect on the logistical challenges of organizing dog trials, we express gratitude for the support that makes these endeavors possible and invite you to stay curious with "K9's Talking Scents.
Chapters:
(00:10) Detection Dog Research and Training
(12:08) Advanced Detection Dog Training Insights
(18:50) Training Variation in Detection Dogs
(25:31) Enhancing Detection Dog Training Methods
(32:59) Operational vs. Nose Work Dog Differences
(45:38) Exploring Detection Dog Training Research
(56:55) Utilizing Odor Chemistry in Dog Training
(59:41) Advancements in Detection Dog Technology
(01:09:07) Logistical Challenges in Running Dog Trials
In this episode, Cameron Ford, Michael Ellis, Michael Nezbeth and Forrest Micke discuss the complexities of dog training, particularly focusing on skills transition for police dogs. They explore the importance of mental flexibility, managing arousal levels, and the role of handlers in facilitating effective training. The conversation emphasizes the need for calmness, the development of rituals and cues, and the application of matching law in reinforcement strategies. The trainers share insights from their experiences, highlighting the challenges and solutions in training dogs for law enforcement tasks. In this conversation, Cameron Ford delves into various aspects of dog training, focusing on the matching law, reinforcement strategies, and the importance of understanding hedonic value in training. He discusses the nuances of negative punishment and the significance of using markers effectively. The dialogue emphasizes the need for actionable skills in dog training, encouraging trainers to adapt their methods based on individual dog behavior and the context of training sessions.
Sponsors
Getxent Getxent odor absorption tubes http://www.getxent.com
Precision Explosives- Purchase all kinds of REAL odor training aids go visit http://www.pre-exp.com
Michael Ellis online school http://www.michaelellisschool.com
Grassroots K9 http://www.grassrootsk9.com
Ford K9 for all things detection dog and webinars, online classes and more http://www.fordk9.com
Stratoscope Security solutions http://www.stratoscope.com
In this episode, Cameron Ford and Dr. Paola Tiedemann discuss the role of OSAC and NIST in establishing standards for canine detection in forensic science. They explore the publication process, the importance of standardization, and the voluntary nature of these standards.
The conversation highlights the evolving nature of these documents and the significance of defining dogs as sensors. Legal implications and community engagement are also emphasized as crucial elements in the successful implementation of these standards. In this conversation, Paola Tiedemann and Cameron Ford explore various aspects of canine detection, including the analysis of Kongs, the misconceptions surrounding bomb and gun dogs, and the complexities of chemical detection in firearms.
They discuss the challenges posed by 3D printed guns, the evolving threats in explosive detection, and the ongoing research into fentanyl. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding chemical mixtures and the need for handlers to ask the right questions about training aids.
Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/iKbKOq3RoJc
To sign up for OSAC click here https://www.nist.gov/organization-scientific-area-committees-forensic-science/how-to-work-with-us/apply-join-osac
Links to published standards https://www.aafs.org/search/standards
Sponsors:
Getxent (odor Absorption) Training aids. http://www.getxent.com
Precision Explosives get your explosive and drug training aids here. NO LICENSE required. http://www.pre-exp.com
Sci K9 TADD Keep your training aids safe http://www.scik9.com
Ford K9 For everything Detection Dogs and online classes and webinars http://www.fordk9.com
In this episode of K9's Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford engages with Todd Wilber from Precision Explosives to discuss the intricacies of explosives, odor prints, and their applications in training detection dogs. The conversation delves into the science behind odor absorption, the importance of surface area in training aids, and the safety considerations when handling hazardous materials.
They also explore the debate surrounding the use of Kong toys in detection training and innovative solutions for integrating scent into training tools. This conversation delves into the intricacies of dog scent detection, focusing on various training methods, the implications of 3D printing in creating training aids, and the evolving landscape of bomb detection. The speakers discuss the importance of adapting training to current threats, the effectiveness of different detection materials, and the necessity of realistic training scenarios to prepare dogs for real-world applications.
In this conversation, Todd Wilber and Cameron Ford delve into the complexities of explosive detection, focusing on the training of bomb detection dogs and the various types of explosives they may encounter. They discuss the importance of understanding different explosive materials, the challenges posed by new homemade explosives like TATP and R-Salt, and the critical communication needed between dog handlers and bomb technicians. The conversation also highlights the risks associated with dual-purpose detection dogs (Gun and Explosive) and the need for specialized training to ensure safety and effectiveness in the field.
Contact Todd Wilbur at http://www.pre-exp.com
Sponsors:
Getxent: Purchase blank or odor soaked tubes at http://www.getxent.com or at http://www.pre-exp.com
Michael Ellis School: The only place to get authentic Michael Ellis videos *Michael's Version and training with Michael Ellis is at his website http://www.michaelellisschool.com
Ford K9 for all things Detection Dogs and to find webinars, seminars and online classes go to http://www.fordk9.com
Stratascope: We develop custom, comprehensive security postures for each client. Contact our event operations experts today to learn more about our process and how we can secure your next event. http://www.stratascope.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Explosives and Precision Explosives
02:11 Understanding Odor Prints and Their Applications
06:01 The Science Behind Odor Absorption and Release
10:00 Best Practices for Using Training Aids
12:00 Documenting Training with Odor Aids
16:05 Exploring the Role of TADs in Training
19:47 Safety Considerations with Hazardous Materials
24:08 The Debate on Kong Toys in Detection Training
28:04 Innovations in Scented Training Tools
31:23 Understanding Dog Scent Detection
33:03 The Rise of 3D Printing in Detection Training
35:54 Evaluating Electronics Detection Methods
38:52 Innovations in Bomb Detection Training
46:56 Adapting to Evolving Threats in Bomb Detection
55:59 Creating Realistic Training Scenarios
01:07:16 Explosive Pairings and Training for Detection
01:12:36 Understanding Smokeless Powder: Single vs Double Base
01:14:17 Hazardous Device Mixtures and Training Considerations
01:18:36 TATP and HMTD: Emerging Threats in Explosives
01:21:24 The Explosive Train: Key Components for Bomb Dog Handlers
01:24:31 Communication Between Handlers and Bomb Technicians
01:27:10 Invisible Bombs: Concealment Techniques and Challenges
01:32:02 R-Salt: A New Homemade Explosive
01:35:58 The Dual Role of Bomb and Firearms Detection Dogs
In this episode, Cameron Ford interviews Dr. Katylynn Sloan, a chemist with the United States Secret Service, who specializes in canine detection and odor availability. They discuss her extensive background in explosives research, recent publications on canine training, and the importance of understanding odor dynamics in detection work.
Dr. Sloan emphasizes the significance of surface area, temperature, and generalization in training dogs, as well as the challenges posed by packaging and standards in the field. The conversation aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application for canine handlers. In this conversation, Katylynn Sloan and Cameron Ford delve into the complexities of odor detection training for dogs, discussing the challenges of teaching dogs to recognize different odors, the importance of understanding vapor pressure, and the implications of using synthetic and alternative training aids.
They also address the evolving threats in explosive detection, emphasizing the need for handlers to stay informed and adapt their training methods accordingly. In this conversation, Cameron Ford and Katylynn Sloan discuss the complexities of bomb detection, focusing on the evolution of explosive materials, the importance of understanding chemical mixtures, and best practices for bomb dog handlers.
They emphasize the need for comprehensive training that includes exposure to various materials and mixtures, as well as collaboration with local bomb techs and adherence to safety standards.
To contact Dr. Sloan email Katylynn.Sloan@usss.dhs.gov
Manipulation of Odor Availability paper https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frontiersin.org%2Fjournals%2Fallergy%2Farticles%2F10.3389%2Ffalgy.2024.1445570%2Ffull%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3MM6785tXW49f94Bu32CP5weGp4w0lwX1izaE4m22VmfMnoNKXlDaD8qA_aem_fUV7ANAV8KkGdTq92PYy1w&h=AT0n95-NOzNFvO3HhiqH1J_XQCOKFwKUBmAczc_SPM4SShSZwdX_YwkRHrHi1j4SNmqF8zpRDSjWGAv2ggFL5vCrMqx9D5vaiIZi3Shf2IUDxX4uIt0eUqwDj2pVPBww_Xsf8iU_ig&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5B0%5D=AT11zQWZGxBzOe6Z6LJArD527zqP6acY89_7Wrz0JKqH2L8Xi1-2V4v-gOf20gAIOM2eX1vtOA1VNHA7pJDMKTnovrluGyIZLUSYxU6TAcry0eoUBJRW3BSMyqYPBlUyBOdAH7teK8d81OY_9tgT883jXBLKIAE1GtoYGFQKfUE-i-Hwduk
Sponsors:
Getxent http://www.getxent.com
Precision Explosives for all your odor soak and explosive needs http;//www.pre-exp.com
Ford K9 for everything Detection Dogs from Webinars, online classes, seminars and Handler/Trainer Schools http://www.FordK9.com
In this conversation, Cameron Ford and Natalie Morris discuss the evolution of training methods in the detection dog community, emphasizing the importance of adapting techniques to enhance communication, search intent, and the use of blanks in training. They explore the balance between science and experience, the significance of markers, and the role of handler behavior in shaping effective detection work. The discussion highlights the need for trainers to embrace change, implement variable reinforcement, and ensure clear communication with their dogs to improve overall performance. In this conversation, Cameron Ford and Natalie Morris delve into the intricacies of dog training, particularly focusing on detection dogs. They discuss the importance of understanding dog search behavior, advocating for the needs of the dogs, and the evolving trends in detection dog training. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in training methodologies, the significance of community support among trainers, and the challenges faced in the professional dog training landscape. They also touch on the shift towards online learning and the value of in-person training experiences.
Sponsors:
Getxent http://www.getxent.com
Sci K9 http://www.scik9.com
Precision Explosives http://www.pre-exp.com
Ford K9 for everything Detection dogs http://www.fordk9.com
Chapters
00:00 Year-End Review of Detection Dog Training
06:13 Shifts in Training Philosophy
06:34 Grounding Through Experience
11:29 The Role of Pairing in Training
16:32 Balancing Pairing and Delayed Conditioning
22:17 Communication and Reward Mechanics
27:37 Ending Searches Effectively
34:23 Implementing Variable Reinforcement
41:25 Gradual Progression in Training
48:34 Advocating for Your Dog in Training
56:19 Balancing Training Methods and Handler Confidence
01:04:32 Trained Final Response vs. Reading Your Dog
01:09:49 Training Dogs for Detection: Key Principles
01:16:30 Evolving Standards in Dog Certifications
01:25:13 The Shift to Online Learning in Dog Training
01:30:54 Upcoming Events and Future Directions in Dog Training
This podcast is from an impromptu Zoom Q&A session where I answered a variety of questions, ranging from basic detection concepts to more advanced or unique topics. I hope you enjoy the discussion!
For more Q&A sessions, detection training tips, or to submit your own questions, visit http://www.fordk9.com
In this episode of K9s Talking Scents, Cameron Ford engages with a panel of experienced search and rescue professionals Diana Bunch, Athena Haus and Jack Thorpe who share their insights and experiences from recent disaster recovery efforts in North Carolina following a hurricane. The conversation covers their backgrounds, the scale of the disaster, the importance of training, and the mental and physical preparedness required for such challenging deployments. The panelists emphasize the need for adaptability, the significance of exposing dogs to real-world distractions, and the critical human factors involved in disaster response. In this conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences in search and rescue operations, focusing on the unpredictability of the environment, the importance of teamwork, and the mental resilience required in high-stress situations.
They share profound experiences from swift water searches, the significance of proper training and equipment, and the human element that emerges during disasters. The conversation also addresses the challenges posed by self-deployment of unqualified teams and the need for handlers to check their egos and prioritize safety. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the complexities and challenges faced during search operations, particularly in cadaver searches.
They emphasize the importance of proper training, the need for handlers to be aware of their dogs' behaviors, and the significance of conducting blank searches to enhance detection skills. The discussion also highlights the necessity of teamwork and communication among search and rescue teams, as well as the value of learning from each other's experiences.
Show Sponsors:
Getxent http://www.getxent.com
Sci K9 http://www.scik9.com
Precision Explosives http://www.pre-exp.com
Michael Ellis School http://www.michaelellisschool.com
Ford K9 for everything detection dogs http://www.fordk9.com
In this episode of K9's Talking Sense, Cameron Ford engages in a deep conversation with Michael Nezbeth, exploring various aspects of dog training, particularly in detection work. They discuss the importance of communication between trainers and handlers, the balance between scientific methodologies and the art of training, and the emotional connections that exist between dogs and their handlers. The conversation also touches on the evolution of training methodologies, the significance of learning through failure, and the impact of handler emotions on dog performance. They emphasize the need for inclusivity in training approaches and the importance of fostering constructive conversations within the dog training community.
Sponsors:
Getxent
http://www.Getxent.com
Precision Explosives
http://www.pre-exp.com
Ford K9
http://www.fordk9.com
Grassroots K9
http://www.grassrootsk9.com
Michael Ellis School
http://www.michaelellisschool.com