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