#101 Talking to GOATs with Michael Ellis and Ivan Balabanov

Episode #102 In this conversation, Cameron Ford interviews Wesley Visser from Sent Imprint for Dogs. They discuss Wesley's background and the work his company does in conservation detection. Wesley shares his passion for training dogs to protect endangered species and combat poaching. They talk about the most common items that are poached, such as rhino horn, pangolin scales, and ivory. Wesley emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation and the connection between poaching and other criminal activities. They also discuss the dangers faced by handlers of conservation detection dogs. The conversation in this part focuses on the training process for conservation dogs, specifically in the areas of wildlife detection and tracking. Wesley explains that the training time for wildlife detection dogs is around 5 to 6 months, while tracking dogs require more time, sometimes up to 2.5 years. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right breed for each specific task and training them from a young age. Wesley also discusses the challenges of training dogs to work in different environments, such as high humidity, high temperatures, and wet conditions. He highlights the need for handlers to be able to read their dogs' behavior and understand the terrain they are working in. Additionally, he mentions the importance of teaching dogs both ground tracking and air-scenting techniques, depending on the operational requirements. Wesley shares stories from his deployments in Africa and the Ivory Coast, highlighting the challenges of searching for both poachers and wildlife. He discusses the different types of dogs used in tracking, their behaviors, and the importance of training them in lower drive to avoid burning out too quickly. Wesley emphasizes the need to reward the search and focus on the process rather than just the end result. He also talks about the unique challenges of searching on boats and the importance of adapting tactics to different environments. Wesley encourages handlers to think outside the box and reward the dog for searching, not just finding.TakeawaysConservation detection dogs play a crucial role in protecting endangered species and combating poaching.The most common items that are poached include rhino horn, pangolin scales, and ivory.Poaching is connected to other criminal activities such as human trafficking and terrorism.Wildlife conservation is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem balance.Handlers of conservation detection dogs face significant risks in their work. Training time for wildlife detection dogs is around 5 to 6 months, while tracking dogs may require up to 2.5 years of training.Selecting the right breed for each specific task is crucial in conservation dog training.Handlers need to be able to read their dogs' behavior and understand the terrain they are working in.Dogs should be trained in both ground tracking and air-scenting techniques, depending on the operational requirements. Deployments in Africa and the Ivory Coast present unique challenges in searching for both poachers and wildlife.Training tracking dogs in lower drive helps prevent burnout and allows for better behavior observation.Rewarding the search and focusing on the process, rather than just the end result, leads to better performance and reduces false indications.Adapting tactics to different environments, such as boats, is crucial for successful searches.Thinking outside the box and rewarding the dog for searching, not just finding, enhances motivation and performance.You can contact Wesley at http://www.scentimprint.comFord K9 for all things Detection dogs such as Detection Classes, Seminars, Webinars and Online classes got visit Http://www.fordk9.com

SummaryIn this episode Cameron, Michael Ellis and Ivan Balabanov discuss various topics within the dog training industry. They cover the definition of a good repetition in training, the importance of timing and motivation, the impact of human intervention on dog evolution, the use of errorless learning versus trial and error learning, the utilization of a dog's genetic predisposition in training, and the changes in the detection dog world over the years. This part of the conversation focuses on introducing variable reward schedules in training, the legalities of working with detection dogs, the challenges of managing vocalization in dogs, and the distinction between opposition reflex and opposition response. The importance of introducing blanks and control negatives in training is also discussed, as well as the value of signaling and conditioned reinforcers. The conversation also touches on understanding dogs with ADHD-like behaviors, embracing challenges and failures in training, and the process of training obedience with distractions. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to dog training. They emphasize the importance of exposing dogs to different environments and not isolating them until their behaviors are perfect. They also discuss the use of personal vs. impersonal punishment and the role of clarity in training. The hosts share their thoughts on the use of pharmaceuticals in dog training, highlighting the need for a plan to eliminate them and the potential side effects. They also discuss the future of the dog training industry and offer advice for the next generation of dog trainers.Cameron Ford http://www.fordk9.comMichael Ellis. http://www.michaelellisschool.comIvan Balabanov http://trainingwithoutconflict.com

In this episode, Dr. Melanie Uhde of Canine Decoded (Canine Neuroscientist) discusses the topics of arousal, motivation, and learning in dogs. She explains how arousal affects search efficiency and the role of dopamine in the brain. The conversation also explores the impact of anticipation and cue-induced excitement on behavior. Additionally, Dr. Uhde addresses the lack of research on dopamine in dogs and the challenges of studying brain function in live animals. The episode concludes with a discussion on freezing behavior and its connection to anticipation. This part of the conversation explores the importance of zero and novelty in detection training, the contextual learning process in detection dogs, and the introduction of novelty and distractions in training environments. It also delves into the concepts of memory and inference in detection dogs, including spatial and procedural memory, working memory, and explicit and episodic memory. The impact of memory on odor recognition and the relationship between training frequency and memory are discussed, as well as the role of focus and distraction in memory formation. In this conversation, Melanie and Cameron discuss various topics related to dog behavior and training. They explore the similarities between ADHD and autism in dogs, highlighting the importance of motivation and focus in training. They also delve into the concept of variable reinforcement and its benefits in dog learning. The conversation touches on the genetic aspects of memory and whether it is possible to breed for specific memory capabilities. The idea of a 'smartest breed' is challenged, emphasizing that intelligence comes in different forms. The discussion concludes with a conversation about the timing of introducing odor to puppies and the potential risks involved. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into dog behavior and training.You can find Dr. Uhde at http://www.caninedecoded.comChapters00:00 Introduction and Background07:39 Arousal, Motivation, and Learning11:15 Effects of Arousal on Search Efficiency25:37 Dopamine in Dogs28:14 Arousal and Behavior in Different Contexts32:30 Freezing Behavior and Anticipation36:39 The Importance of Zero and Novelty in Detection Training38:47 The Contextual Learning Process in Detection Dogs41:35 Introducing Novelty and Distractions in Training Environments42:34 Memory and Inference in Detection Dogs45:42 Spatial and Procedural Memory in Detection Dogs47:05 Working Memory in Dogs49:56 Explicit and Episodic Memory in Dogs50:55 Implicit and Episodic Memory in Dogs53:46 The Impact of Memory on Odor Recognition57:48 The Relationship Between Training Frequency and Memory01:00:26 The Role of Focus and Distraction in Memory Formation01:09:36 ADHD and Autism in Dogs01:11:09 Motivation and Focus in Dogs01:14:13 Variable Reinforcement01:17:34 Memory and Breeding01:25:55 The Smartest Breed01:28:17 Early Introduction to Odor01:33:32 Developmental Stages and Risk01:37:42 Finding Melanie

This episode contains a wealth of information. Dr. Gadbois delves into various aspects of detection dog work and general dog training. Some of the topics discussed include the use of markers, variable reinforcement schedules, the significance of blank searches, the acknowledgment that reality is not flawless, and the notion that training should not strive for perfection either.Dr. Simon Gadbois integrates ethology, animal experimental psychology, and behavioural neuroscience to study wild and domestic canids. He completed his Ph.D. in behavioural endocrinology at the Canadian Centre for Wolf Research (CCWR) examining the hormonal correlates of social behaviour in wolves, as well as action sequences in wolves, coyotes and red foxes. When the CCWR closed in 2007, he started the Canid Behaviour Research Lab at Dalhousie University and focussed his research on coyote-human conflicts and canine scent detection and search. He is interested in the fundamental science of olfaction and olfactory learning, as well as some applications: His lab has focussed on environmental/conservation, biomedical, and forensic applications of scent processing in dogs.To learn even more about Detection Dogs go visit http://www.fordk9.com 

In this Episode we sit down with Steven Atommarchi who is a police officer K9 handler and trainer, K9 researcher and owner of Next Level K9 located in TX.  Steven has a wide range of real world experience and now more and more experience with the various K9 research projects such as Hemp vs. MJ he has done with Dr. Kenneth Furton.  You can reach Steven via email at [email protected] learn about all things detection dogs and webinars from the best in the detection dog field go to http://www.fordk9.com

In this episode, Cameron Ford interviews Stu Phillips, an operational K9 handler and trainer. Stu shares his journey of working with military working dogs and transitioning to civilian work as a detection dog handler. He discusses the challenges and requirements of working with passive screening drug dogs in high pedestrian environments. Stu also talks about his experience working with explosive detection dogs during the London Olympics. The conversation concludes with Stu's work training whiskey barrel detection dogs and the process of training dogs to detect low-level odors. In this part of the conversation, Stu Phillips discusses the importance of recording and timing in dog training. He then shares the story of the whiskey dogs and the challenges he faced training them. He also talks about his work with tobacco detection dogs and the unique qualities he looks for in these dogs. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of reading your dog and incorporating blank searches into training. In this conversation, Stu Phillips and Cameron Ford discuss various topics related to detection dog training and handling. They cover the use of a middle position and reinforcing different search outcomes, the challenges of conservation detection work, the pros and cons of using Kong as a training tool, advice for handlers working with their first detection dog, and the differences between Springer Spaniels and working Cocker Spaniels. Stu Phillips also shares how people can connect with him and the services he offers.You can reach out to Stu on Instagram @bwyk9Website http://www.bwycanine.co.ukCHAPTERS00:00Introduction and Background01:19Getting into Dogs and Working with Military Working Dogs02:09Transitioning to Civilian Work and Training Detection Dogs03:36Working as a Passive Screening Drug Dog Handler04:55Working in High Pedestrian Environments with Passive Screening Dogs06:40Qualities of a Dog for People Screening08:16Memorable Deployment with a Passive Screening Dog09:02Transitioning to Explosive Detection Dogs for the Olympics19:46Challenges and Issues with Contracting Companies33:12Training Whiskey Barrel Detection Dogs39:40Dog Selection and Training for Low-Level Odor Detection48:51Training Process and Proofing for Operational Readiness51:24The Importance of Recording and Timing55:22The Whiskey Dogs59:27Tobacco Detection Dogs01:09:14Challenges of Tobacco Detection01:19:40The Importance of Reading Your Dog01:28:32Qualities of a Tobacco Detection Dog01:32:19Training with Blank Searches01:39:45Using a Middle Position and Reinforcing Different Search Outcomes01:41:41Conservation Detection and the Challenges Faced01:51:25Pros and Cons of Using Kong as a Training Tool02:04:32Advice for Handlers Working with Their First Detection Dog02:11:52Differences Between Springer Spaniels and Working Cocker Spaniels02:20:32How to Connect with Stu Phillips and the Services He Offers

In this episode, Steven Antommarchi, a fellow Police K9 Trainer and Handler, engages in a deep and informative conversation with Cameron. The interview covers a wide range of topics, delving into both personal and professional aspects of Cameron’s life, with a significant focus on detection dogs. This episode offers a comprehensive insight into Cameron’s experiences and expertise, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in detection dogs. To explore more about Detection Dogs, visit http://www.fordk9.com

K9 Handler, Trainer. FEMA Task Force, Fire Captain... Tim Houweling has REAL experience and and understanding of Dogs and use of K9s in Search and Rescue.  Tim is passionate about being a dog handler and working in the Search and Rescue field.  Tim specializes in Human remains detection and has been there done that with his dogs.  You can find Tim on Instagram at @Tim_houweling. Non Profits mentioned in this podcast on Instagram:@hdsearchdogfund @SpikesK9Fund  @SearchDogFoundation  To learn all things Detection dogs go to http://www.fordk9.com

Episode #94 with Geryah Dingle of Dingle Days on You Tube.  Geryah is a passionate Detection dog trainer and handler who runs a successful YouTube channel @dingledays she also runs a podcast called "Dogs are People too".We discuss her journey in detention dogs, how she got into her YouTube channel and the various training topics of Nosework and Scentwork dogs.To learn everything about Detection Dogs go visit http://www.fordk9.com 

In this Episode I sit down with Sgt. Jaye Lilley of the Queensland Police Dog Squad. Sgt. Lilley, is the Lead Detection Trainer and Breeding Supervisor for the state of Queensland.  She has worked many roles in the Police Dept. and her hard work has put her in the position she has today. We speak about the evolution of training and the increasing role of women in Police and K9 Training. We cover training lessons learned and how to constantly improve your program from puppies to adult dogs and handler training. For everything Detection go visit http://www.fordk9.com