015 - Training Audit: Navigating Variable Reinforcement

In this episode, I discuss the concept of inaccessible hides in scent detection training. I share my experiences with my own dogs, Valor and Vimy, highlighting the importance of introducing inaccessible hides early in training. The episode covers different types of inaccessible hides, the challenges dogs face when adapting to them, and strategies for handlers to ensure success. If this episode was helpful, please share it with a friend or training partner! In this episode: 04:07 Understanding Inaccessible Hides 05:59 Challenges in Training for Inaccessible Hides 10:34 Strategies for Success with Inaccessible Hides Road to Detection Online Program is opening for registration in March, 2025! Learn more and join the waitlist.

In this episode, I discuss the complexities of training dogs on elevated hides. I break down the definitions, challenges, and training strategies necessary for success. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding your dog's change of behavior, the unique challenges posed by elevated hides, and the need for a tailored training approach based on each dog's abilities. In this episode: 02:19 Understanding Elevated Hides 04:38 Challenges of Elevated Hides 08:41 Training Techniques for Elevated Hides 15:00 Common Challenges and Solutions Road to Detection Online Program opens for registration March, 2025! Learn more and join the waitlist.

In this episode, I'm joined by Terry Ann Fernando and Mike Neiduski. We delve into our journey with bird dogs and explore effective strategies for managing our high-energy companions. We highlight the numerous benefits of scent work for dogs, particularly in engaging high-drive breeds and navigating rehabilitation periods. We discuss the three pillars of dog training and the importance of building a strong foundation, especially for hunting dogs. The conversation also covers the significance of reading your dog's behavior accurately and provides insights on getting started with scent work. Finally, I'm excited to announce a collaboration with Terry Ann and Mike. We are launching a new course, designed to help bird dog owners integrate these valuable training strategies into their daily routines. Follow Terry Ann and Mike for more hunting dog content and news on our new course launching January 15, 2025!  Terry Ann Fernando - Accidental Bird Dog  Mike Neiduski - Ugly Dog Hunting  In this episode:  00:57 Our Journey with Bird Dogs 12:51 Managing High-Energy Dogs 16:51 The Benefits of Scent Work for Dogs 17:54 Engaging High Drive Dogs 29:04 Navigating Rehabilitation 46:04 Three Pillars of Dog Training 47:31 Building a Strong Foundation for Hunting Dogs 49:03 Instilling Independence and Confidence in Dogs 49:46 The Importance of Patience in Dog Training 52:16 Reading Your Dog's Behavior 54:47 Getting Started in Scent Work 01:00:25 Collaboration and Course Launch Announcement   And, if you're not already, please follow Road to Detection on Instagram! A page dedicated to this podcast and all things detection training.

2024 is a wrap! In this episode I share wins and questions from Road to Detection students and friends. The best part of this sport is how incredible our community is, and I'm always grateful for everyone I've had the opportunity to meet and train with! Towards the end of this episode, I also share some mindsets for 2025 that might help you cultivate the year you want to have along your scent detection training journey. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did! Happy New Year!

In this episode, I'm joined by Paige as we discusses the intricacies of implementing variable reinforcement in scent detection. Paige has some concerns about motivation and confidence in her dog, Jake when transitioning from continuous to variable reinforcement. Our conversation covers the importance of having solid skills before introducing variable reinforcement, strategies for implementing this reinforcement schedule, and the significance of observing dog behavior to adjust training methods. In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to Training Audit 03:19 Exploring Variable Reinforcement 06:06 Background on Jake's Training Journey 11:11 Proficiency in Skills 16:57 Implementing Variable Reinforcement Effectively 22:44 Reflections on Training and Future Steps I hope you enjoyed this episode with Paige! If you want to schedule a FREE training audit with me, you can book here.

Today I'm joined by Lane Michie and her tiny dog, Wendel. Their journey in nosework began nearly four years ago but despite the relatively short time in the sport, they have participated in what equates to almost ten years' worth of trials due to their extensive trial and travel schedule. The duo has traveled for trials extensively across North America, reaching locations as far east as Nova Scotia and as far south as Arizona. They currently compete in eight different organizations across Canada and the USA, trialing at the highest levels available in nearly all of them. Wendel recently made history by becoming the first mixed-breed dog to obtain the Grand Master title in the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). They are now focused on achieving additional titles, including the SDDA Elite Champion and Grand Master Champion, as well as the NACSW ELT 1. In this episode, we explore the journey of getting into nosework, the various organizations involved, and the emotional highs and lows of trialing. Lane shares insights on the importance of training foundations, the all-or-nothing approach in trials, and the supportive community that surrounds our sport. 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:20 Journey into Nose Work 08:08 Trialing Experiences and Organizations 16:53 The Importance of Community in Nose Work 20:09 Training Techniques and Trial Preparation 23:06 Advice for Newcomers 26:13 Lightning Round and Wrap-Up

In this episode, I discusses the challenges of burnout in training and the importance of setting clear goals to maintain motivation and avoid overcommitment. I discuss the need for handlers to reflect on their priorities and make strategic decisions about their training commitments. By understanding personal goals and the reasons behind their choices, handlers can create a more fulfilling and sustainable training journey. Join me for this super quick episode as I share some of my own experiences with overcommitment and burnout, and what I've done to set myself up for a long journey in our favorite dog sport. In this quick episode I discuss: 00:00 Understanding Burnout in Training 02:55 The Importance of Setting Goals 05:53 Finding Balance and Avoiding Overcommitment 09:14 Reflecting on Personal Priorities and Goals Want a FREE copy of my training journal? You can download it here: https://www.caninedevelopmentandtesting.com/contact/trainingjournal

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Learn more about Road to Detection Program  This episode is an upcycled talk I did for one of last seasons Road to Detection coaching calls. Get nerdy as I break down the neuroscience (the best I can) behind working memory and focus and strategies you can incorporate into your routine to help you become a better team member for your dog!  If you love nerdy content like this, check our Road to Detection! Registration closes August 30!  PS - If you want to check out Huberman Lab, you can find that podcast on Apple and Spotify. 

Whenever we learn something new, mistakes and oversights are inevitable! Let me save you from at least a few of them as I share what I wish I knew when I started training my own dogs, and my students, in detection!  Want to learn HOW you can easily implement these lessons learned in your scent detection training? Join me for a FREE webinar, What I Wish I Knew and learn more!  The FREE webinar is happening August 26 and 28 with a morning and evening schedule so you can join LIVE! See you there :)