What to listen for:

“If I cannot, in five repetitions, isolate a variable down and get it where I want it, I do need to stop. That doesn't mean the next time we'll be successful. What that tells me is, don't do the same thing again and again and again. And there's been a lot of variation. Isolate that variable. It looks good now. Put it back in a chain, it doesn't look good. What have I done wrong?”

In part one of this two-part discussion, Robin Greubel and Crystal Wing sit down with special guest Denise Fenzi, a trainer and educator who specializes in building cooperation, joy, and extreme precision in competition dog sports teams.

“Patterns lead to confidence. Unpredictable leads to listening.”

Famous for breaking down complex concepts into bite-sized lessons, Denise does a deep dive into a training philosophy that stresses adaptability and prioritizing the dog’s wellbeing. She discusses how to build your dog’s vocabulary via strategic repetition, as well as her approach to encouraging or disrupting behavioral patterns during training.

“The more ways you generalize the behavior, the better the dog gets at those behaviors.”

Denise shares why tools like choke chains and e-collars might be a thing of the past, and why tailored, humane options like aversives better enhance understanding and cooperation between you and your dog–which in turn fosters a bond built on trust and respect rather than pain and fear.

“A behavior chain is simply a bunch of behaviors strung together, so you have to get comfortable with degrees of messiness.”

Finally, Denise unravels the complexities of behavior chains and the balance between instinctual behaviors and structured learning. She walks us through the art of rewarding gradual progress and adapting training techniques to maintain a dog's confidence.

Key Topics:

• Denise’s Training Methodology (06:51)
• Applying Micro Behaviors To Full Training Scenarios (20:22)
• Generalizing Behaviors (26:13)
• Drive Versus Arousal (35:50)

Resources:

• Fenzi Dog Sports Academy

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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

Jingle by: www.mavericksings.com

Audio editing & other podcast services by: www.thepodcastman.com

What to listen for:

Today, our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing reflect on key takeaways from their recent conversations with Diana Bunch, Jack Thorpe, and Annissia Justice – all expert handlers with a golden nugget or two (or 100s) around cadaver dog and disaster response training.

From avoiding the "ego hide" trap, to getting more out of nose time, to the importance of balancing motivation and frustration during training, our hosts explore the nuances of preparing dogs—and their handlers—for real-world challenges by preparing the training environment right from the get-go.

The Dames of Detection touch on the importance of scarcity and novelty in maintaining a dog's interest and drive. You’ll also get actionable tips on incorporating purposeful blanks into nose work and the importance of embracing unpredictability to better mimic real-life search and rescue scenarios.

They remind us to note your dog's unique personality and strengths, as well as the role of effective communication in bridging gaps between handlers and their canine partners.

Key Topics:

• Avoiding the “Ego Hide” Trap (02:45)
• Becoming Aware of Unintentional Distractions in Your Training Environment (12:29)
• Getting More Intentional with Nose Time by Using Blanks (20:29)
• Choosing a Search and Rescue Dog (24:31)
• Managing Time Constraints as a Nose Work Handler (36:45)
• Knowing How Much Your Dog Needs to Struggle in Training (43:42)
• Takeaways (48:44)

Resources:

• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 83: Kickin' Back with Christi Raak
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 72 and 73: Talking Arousal vs Drive and Selection of a Dog with Jens Frank (pt 1 and pt 2)
• NEW: K9Sensus Detection Dog Trainer Academy
• See the info below for other happenings!

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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

What to listen for:

Today, 2/3 of the Dames of Detection - Stacy Barnett and Crystal Wing - are sitting down with special guest Diana Bunch, an Air Force veteran-turned-search and rescue trainer.

Diana shares her inspiring journey from the military to the world of disaster response, running through her various experiences in various search scenarios, from wilderness expeditions to urban disaster zones.

Our guest dives deep into the art and science of training search dogs, whether you’re a longtime expert looking to shake up your training, or a newcomer looking for the right community of handlers. Diana tells us how to build a dog's confidence through strategic exposure to distractions and varied environments. She talks reinforcement systems and finding the delicate balance between knowns, blinds, and blanks in refining your dog’s skills.

Diana also offers her take on the impact of environmental factors, such as wind and humidity, on a search-and-rescue dog's performance, and explains how handlers can pinpoint the ideal training schedule for their particular dog, and her best tips and strategies for nurturing a dog's natural instincts.

Key Topics:

• Diana’s Disaster Response Experiences (06:20)
• Ensuring that You and Your Dog Are Fully Prepared for Wilderness and Disaster Work (12:23)
• Utilizing Knowns, Blinds, and Blanks (23:15)
• Breaking Training Plateaus (36:57)
• How to Get Involved in Search and Rescue Work (45:07)

Resources:

• Distraction Camp and Intentional Handling and Hide Setting
• If you want to get involve in K9SAR work, here's a class from K9Sensus that you can take
• Diana Bunch [email protected]
• Legacy SAR team
• Diana's FB Post
• Episodes with Emily Lawrence: 35, 36, 37

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

What to listen for:

In the second part of the two-part discussion, our hosts, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing, continue their interview with expert trainers Jack Thorpe and Annissia Justice. Drawing from their recent experience doing search and rescue in the aftermath of the floods brought on by Hurricane Doreen, our guests do a deep dive into their best tips and strategies around cadaver dog training.

“Blinds are the number one way to read your dog.”

Jack and Annissia discuss the keys to incorporating blanks and blinds into training routines. With the belief that “blinds are the number one way to read your dog,” they explain how these tools enhance handlers' abilities to distinguish between novel and target odors, which prepares them for real-world challenges by extension.

In order to keep your dog improving their skills and behaviors consistently, it’s also important to motivate them with a mix of rewards and games that keep things varied and stimulating.

Jack gives his thoughts on specialized HR dogs. From locating dementia patients or navigating crime scenes, he explains why the industry needs to up its game regarding certification standards.

Our guests also give their best advice for selecting and raising working dogs, encouraging us to nail the balance between the dog’s social nature and work ethic to suit our abilities as handlers.

All this and more in this special edition of K9 Detection Collaborative!

Key Topics:

• Incorporating Blanks and Blinds in Your Training (01:04)
• Maintaining Consistency and Motivation with Games and Rewards (10:42)
• Specialization with HR Dogs (19:09)
• How Specialized Certifications Can Be Improved (24:44)
• How to Spot Fundraising Scams (26:45)
• Puddles, the Water Leak Detection Dog (34:55)
• Choosing a Search and Rescue Dog (42:07)
• Letting Your Puppy Be a Puppy! (47:40)
• Key Takeaways (52:10)

Resources:

• Find Annissia at Cultured Canine Training
• Find Jack at the North Carolina Trooper's Association K-9 Search and Recovery Team
• Make sure to keep up with what Crystal, Stacy, and Robin are up to! (Links below!)

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

Jingle by: www.mavericksings.com

Audio editing & other podcast services by: www.thepodcastman.com

What to listen for:

Today, two of the three Dames of Detection, Stacy Barnett and Crystal Wing, sit down with two amazing handlers, Jack Thorpe and Annissia Justice. Drawing from their recent experience doing search and rescue in the aftermath of the floods brought on by Hurricane Helene, our guests do a deep dive into their best tips and strategies around cadaver dog training.

Listen in as they uncover the secrets behind successful canine search teams, particularly those operating in disaster scenarios. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the type of prep and specialized training required for high-stakes missions, where reinforced behaviors and navigating distractions are key.

They’re also talking about best practices for keeping your dog motivated and fit, physically and mentally, with simple yet powerful activities.

Our guests discuss the importance of balancing obedience and play and, in the same vein, taking full advantage of the intersection between genetics and drive in operational success. Through the example of Jack’s very own Fiji, they also demonstrate the power of letting dogs problem-solve on their own.

Certification and deployment protocols? Jack and Annissia break them down as well to hammer home the rigorous standards and continuous learning involved in earning your keep in the detection world.

Finally, our guests list the qualities all top handlers share, as well as the secret to a thriving and consistently improving team! Tune in next week for part two of this value-packed conversation!

Key Topics:

• About Jack and Annissia (01:20)
• About the NC Trooper's Association K-9 Search and Recovery (04:44)
• Distraction Training for Disaster Teams (12:11)
• Letting Your Dogs Be Dogs Via Free Exploration(17:48)
• Building Endurance and Resilience (19:50)
• What Engagement Looks Like in the Field (24:54)
• Key Behaviors Every Dog Needs Before Deployment (30:15)
• The Top Qualities of Successful Handlers (34:27)
• Fostering Open-Mindedness in Your Team (41:00)
• External Certifications (43:04)

Resources:

• Find Annissia at Cultured Canine Training
• Find Jack at the North Carolina Trooper's Association K-9 Search and Recovery Team
• Make sure to keep up with what Crystal, Stacy and Robin are up to! (Links below!)

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com to enjoy the freebies, and tell your friends so you can keep the conversations going.

What to listen for:

In today’s episode of K9 Detection Collaborative, our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing discuss the keys to cleaning up your dog’s behavior chain to help them stay on track and avoid distractions in the field.

When it comes to reinforcing behavior, it’s just as important to get clear on when not to train particular habits. Their rule of thumb? Avoid reinforcing tactics during moments of frustration in your dog. It’s important to be systematic when training for search & rescue scenarios, setting clear boundaries and expectations for your dog, all while respecting their autonomy so that they can make snap decisions with confidence in high-stakes situations.

With Deb Jones's Focus Unified Field Theory as their guide, the Dames of Detection navigate the complexities of canine focus in four areas—external, self, trainer, and task focuses. Understanding these focus types is crucial for managing distractions and maintaining a dog's attention during challenging search tasks.

They dive into strategies that build a strong reinforcement system, allowing dogs to handle complex searches without becoming overwhelmed. They also explain why it’s crucial to actively train blank areas with the intention of striking a balance between engagement and overwhelm for both handler and dog.

Finally, Robin, Stacy, and Crystal define “self-employing” actions, and why it’s a good idea to steer clear from reinforcing such behaviors, as well as the keys to nurturing understanding when building on and optimizing your dog’s behavior chain.

Key Topics:

• Why You Shouldn’t Try Reinforcing Behaviors During Moments of Frustration (00:00)
• Systematic Searching and Maintaining Your Dog’s Autonomy (05:51)
• When and When Not to Praise Your Dog (10:53)
• Four Types of Focus (17:52)
• The Importance of Actively Training Blank Areas (25:50)
• “Don’t Reinforce Them For Self-Employing” (29:30)
• Building the Desire to do the Job Right (35:13)
• Building Understanding (41:03)
• Dames of Detection Takeaways (50:48)

Resources:

• Deb Jones and the F.O.C.U.S Dog Training System: https://k9infocus.com/shiny-new-thoughts-on-focus/ | https://k9infocus.com/
• Join Robin for her winter webinar series!
• FENZI Webinars
• FENZI Camp

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at 

What to listen for:

“Don’t rush the training. Don’t trial too early. Because you’re short-changing that important part where you’re thoughtfully adding the right stress to the picture.”

What’s the difference between “good” and “bad” stress in dog handling, and how do you incorporate the former into your training while minimizing the latter?

Drawing from a groundbreaking study in Nature, our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing discuss how stress impacts our dog’s learning and behavior. You’ll get a treasure trove of tips for masterfully adding artificial stressors into your handler training, all while learning to keep burnout at bay and your skills razor-sharp.

Getting the balance right between good and bad stress is like walking a tightrope in the world of K9 detection. Our hosts explore how the right amount of stress can boost your dog’s memory and performance. Through real-life scenarios, they dissect common handling pitfalls and tips for fine-tuning your teaching, training, and testing methodology.

The Dames of Detection also break down the impact of emotional states–of both handler and dog–on training outcomes. They unpack little-known facts such as how your dog reacts differently to odors depending on which side it’s coming from, and how best to engage your dog’s olfactory system to supercharge their optimism and overall well-being!

Key Topics:

• Applying Intentional Stress in Handler Training (03:56)
• Summarizing the Nature Study (08:10)
• Training Bravery Via Good Stress (15:15)
• Adding Artificial Stressors for the Benefit of the Handler (22:30)
• Teaching, Training, Testing (27:05)
• How Your Dog Assesses Odors Differently Through Each Nostril (38:40)
• Our Other Stress-Related “Ah-Hah”s (44:57)
• How Engaging Your Dog’s Olfactory System Positively Impacts Their Mood (50:06)
• Takeaways (53:15)

Resources:

• FENZI Camp
• Crystal in Wisconsin
• STUDY: The odour of an unfamiliar stressed or relaxed person affects dogs’ responses to a cognitive bias test: www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66147-1

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com to enjoy the freebies, and tell your friends so you can keep the conversations going.

What to listen for:

In this episode of K9 Detection Collaborative our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett and Crystal Wing explore the intricate world of displacement behaviors in dogs. They kick off by discussing recognizing these behaviors, which often arise from stress, frustration, or internal conflict in our canine companions. Our hosts share practical insights and anecdotes to help you identify and address these signals, ensuring a more harmonious training environment for both you and your dog.

The Dames of Detection also draw parallels between displacement behaviors in humans and dogs, revealing how stress and overwhelming situations can lead to unexpected coping mechanisms. By sharing personal experiences and relating them to similar behaviors in dogs, like scavenging, lip licking, pacing, and grass snatching, they highlight the importance of recognizing these signs as indicators of stress or pressure. Listen in as they discuss the impact of handler expectations and share valuable tips for managing stress in training scenarios, especially when working with high-energy dogs in demanding environments.

Our hosts also tackle the complexities of trigger stacking and the importance of understanding canine arousal levels. They emphasize the significance of balancing a dog's stress and arousal to foster effective teamwork. Through discussions on trigger stacking, displacement behaviors, and the need for flexible training strategies, they provide guidance on creating positive associations and respecting individual canine needs.

Key Topics:

• Recognizing and Defining Displacement Behaviors (00:00)
• Examples of Displacement Behaviors in Dogs (05:49)
• Displacement Behaviors in Search and Rescue Dogs (09:08)
• Understanding Trigger Stacking and Displacement Behaviors (21:18)
• Handling Displacement Behaviors in Training (36:27)
• Trigger Stacking and Accumulated Stress (37:54)
• Building Resiliency and Confidence in Dogs (38:13)
• Recognizing and Addressing Displacement Behaviors in Different Contexts (43:27)
• Balancing Stress and Resiliency in Training (47:16)
• Practical Tips for Handling Displacement Behaviors (49:42)
• Takeaways (50:01)

Resources:

• On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals (book)
• FENZI Camp
• Crystal in Wisconsin

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• 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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

What to listen for:

"I found that the things I taught in higher arousal have held up better in higher arousal environments. The things done very slowly in lower arousal haven’t held up as well."

Ever wondered why some detection dogs excel under pressure while others not so much? Join in exploring the dynamic world of canine detection training, guided by the unique experiences of our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing. They share their journeys through the challenges of maintaining behavioral fluency in high-arousal situations, breaking down the complexities of foundational training and behavior chains. They emphasize the unpredictable nature of well-trained dogs when faced with new stimuli and the critical balance between fluency and arousal.

The next segment offers a deep dive into high-arousal training methods, where practical advice meets real-world scenarios. Discover the transformative power of teaching commands during high-energy moments and how these techniques can solidify behaviors in unexpected environments. They also discuss the importance of introducing dogs to varied conditions early on, ensuring their training is resilient and adaptable. This chapter challenges conventional wisdom, highlighting our evolving understanding of canine behavior.

The Dames of Detection also tackle the intricacies of tracking training, managing arousal, and setting boundaries. Learn about maintaining a steady training pace and fostering intrinsic motivation in dogs. From the balance required in reinforcement to the importance of clear boundaries, this discussion provides a comprehensive look at creating effective training routines.

Key Topics:

• Updates and Working Up Your Behavior Chain (00:00)
• Training in High-Arousal States (06:29)
• Balancing Arousal and Drive in Training (09:20)
• Challenges in Tracking and Articles (20:55)
• Nose Work and Focus in Training (40:10)
• Insanity Erosion in Training (47:22)
• Takeaways and Upcoming Events (47:55)

Resources:

• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 35: Competitive Tracking with Emily Lawrence
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 32: Jo-Rosie and +R Myths
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 68: A Grief Discussion with Deborah Jones Ph.D (Part 1)
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 72: Talking Arousal vs Drive and Selection of a Dog with Jens Frank (pt 1)
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 73: Progression Plans, Handler Education and Science for Practitioners with Jens Frank (pt 2)
• FENZI Camp
• Crystal in Wisconsin
• Susan Garrett

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com

What to listen for:

Our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing offer their best tips for creating a training plan and measuring your progress without the help of an in-person mentor.

Crystal sets the stage with a top ten list that includes strategies such as assessing your current skill level, setting long and short-term goals, varying your training environment, incorporating feedback loops, maintaining a balance of fun and stress, and networking with other handlers.

As they kick things off, our hosts shine a light on that critical first step: getting clear on your skill level as a handler, as well as that of your dog. From cataloging strengths and weaknesses, to understanding the detection chain, to assessing your dog’s current trained final response, you’ll get actionable tips on how to elevate your training sessions by varying complexity and environmental conditions.

The Dames of Detection remind us that professional coaching and community support can make or break your training journey. They talk about seeking (and vetting) experts and what to know about certifications in detection work. Drawing from real-life examples, they illustrate how to effectively set up training scenarios, and explain how to craft challenging scenarios to hone your dog’s problem-solving aptitude.

Keeping training engaging and effective is no small feat. In the latter half of the conversation, you’ll learn methods to keep high-energy dogs focused and ensure fluency in critical behaviors, especially during certifications!

Key Topics:

• Crystal’s Top Ten Tips (02:32)
• Connecting With Other Handlers and Online Coaches (9:30)
• Vetting Your Nosework Instructor (14:50)
• Thoughts on Certifications (21:50)
• Problem-Solving With Your Dog: Troubleshooting as a Handler (25:10)
• Prioritization in Your Training (31:49)
• Breaking Down Your Goals (33:09)
• Varying Environments and Simulating Real-World Scenarios (43:49)
• Planning For Consistency and Adjusting as Needed (49:08)

Resources:

• Steve White ProActive K9
• Academy Standards Board
• Organization of Scientific Area Committees For Forensic Science
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 72 and 73 with Jens Frank
• FDSA FENZI Training Camp and Webinars
• Crystal in Wisconsin
• Reach out to Robin about her workshop in Tulsa in October

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com