What to listen for:

In the second part of the series on consistency, our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing take a closer look at the mechanics of consistency, from creating intentional setup signals to reinforcing behaviors for longevity! You’ve probably heard about marker timing and reinforcement. Today, our hosts take a fresh look at the finer details—like how you stand, where you point your toes, and even the words you use when training your dog to shape new behaviors.

The Dames of Detection chat about how good mechanics aren’t just about doing something with your hands—it’s about reading your dog and being intentional about your own patterns so your canine partner can read you. From how you cue a start to what gear you’re wearing or how you hold your body, everything sets the stage for what your dog expects. 

Wrapping up, our hosts discuss reinforcement zones, chasing toys vs food, and how where you reward matters just as much as what you reward. The bottom line? Clean, consistent mechanics help dogs learn faster and clearer. So, before you blame the dog, check your cues—clarity starts with you! Tune in next time for part three of this series on consistency in dog training!

Key Topics:

• Why Mechanics Are Underappreciated (00:00)
• Start Signals and Setup Mechanics (03:37)
• Why Sit Down When Shaping a Behavior? (12:02)
• Choosing Your Action Words Intentionally (16:47)
• From Consistency to Reinforcement (26:52)
• “Where You Reinforce is Just as Important as What You Reinforce!” (31:05)
• “What is Making the Dog Click?” (38:38)
• Predatory Modal Action Patterns (40:34)
• Knowing When and Where NOT to Reinforce (47:05)

Resources:

• Kynotalk by Kynotec Podcast Ep 77: Jens Frank “successive approximation”
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 135: Consistency in Dog Training Pt 1
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep’s 129, 130, 131 with Denise Fenzi

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• K9Sensus Detection Dog Trainer Academy
• K9Sensus Foundation can be found on Facebook and Instagram. We have a Trainer’s Group on Facebook!
• Scentsabilities Nosework is also on Facebook. Here is a Facebook group you should join!
• Crystal Wing (CB K9) can be found here!
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com