Canine insight for archaeological and cultural resource work.

Dog Merickel provides specialized AHRDD support for archaeological projects, cultural resource investigations, cemetery work, and historic preservation efforts. Our dogs help identify areas of interest where human remains odor may be present, supporting better planning, documentation, and decision-making before ground disturbance occurs.

What We Support

Preliminary landscape assessment
Cemetery and burial location projects
Historic and cultural resource investigations
Avoidance-based project planning
Collaboration with archaeologists, CRM firms, Tribes, agencies, and landowners
Non-invasive search methods

How We Work

We approach every project with respect, discretion, and careful documentation. Each search is planned around the goals of the project, the landscape, access limits, cultural sensitivities, and the needs of the people responsible for the site.

A Valued Colleague

Janie Merickel has had the privilege of working alongside Melissa Kindt and Canines for Heritage Preservation on archaeological human remains detection dog projects. Together, we have supported archaeologists and cultural resource professionals through respectful, science-informed field investigations.

Learn more about Canines for Heritage Preservation - https://www.caninesforheritage.com/

For project inquiries, collaboration, or availability, please contact Dog Merickel:

Janie Merickel

(719) 839-8119

Are Love and Passion Enough?

Love and passion can get us started—but sustaining meaningful work takes more. A reflection on learning curves, community care, and why lasting work depends on how we think, learn, and grow together. ...more

HandlerCraft

February 13, 2026•6 min read

What Are We Doing Here?

What are we really doing here? A clear look at the philosophy behind The Society For Dogs, why community and inquiry matter, and how thoughtful learning supports excellence in detection work. ...more

Learning

February 06, 2026•5 min read

Becoming Through the Work

What if the work shapes us as much as we shape it? A reflection on becoming through dog handling—how responsibility, uncertainty, and care quietly influence who we become over time. ...more

HandlerCraft

January 30, 2026•6 min read

The Interdisciplinary Fabric of HandlerCraft

What if great dog handling includes more than training skill alone? This piece explores HandlerCraft as an interdisciplinary fabric—where context, judgment, and communication quietly shape strong work... ...more

HandlerCraft

January 23, 2026•4 min read

“Okay. So Now This Is Happening.”

A reflection on slowing down when things feel uncertain—why presence matters, how observation sharpens judgment, and what it really means to stay accurate in complex detection work. ...more

HandlerCraft

January 16, 2026•7 min read

Why I Started Videoing Our Work

I didn’t start filming our work to share it - I started because I wanted to see more clearly. Video has a way of slowing things down, revealing what I miss in the moment, and sharpening how I think. ...more

Learning

January 15, 2026•8 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is Dog Merickel?

Dog Merickel is a science-driven platform dedicated to advancing detection dog training through expert guidance, innovative tools, and a strong Community of Handlers.

Who is Dog Merickel for?

We support detection dog Handlers at all levels—whether you’re just starting out or refining advanced skills in Human Remains Detection (HRD) or Archaeology Human Remains Detection (AHRD).

What makes Dog Merickel different?

We combine cutting-edge science, structured training strategies, and a supportive online Community to ensure you and your dog reach the highest level of success.

The Society For Dogs

What is The Society For Dogs?

The Society For Dogs is our exclusive membership-based Community where Handlers can connect, learn, and grow together. We host weekly Coffee Chats, provide structured training discussions, and offer expert insights.

How do I join The Society For Dogs?

You can become a member by signing up on our website. Elite Memberships are currently $25 per month, but the price will increase soon!

What do I get as a member?

Access to our private online Community

Weekly live training discussions via Zoom

Structured training support and expert insights

Exclusive training resources and tools

Training and Courses

What is OdorQuest?

OdorQuest is our structured training program designed to take Handlers through progressive, science-backed detection training, helping teams build strong skills from foundational to advanced levels.

Can I buy training plans without joining The Society For Dogs?

Yes! We offer one-time training plans like Odor Origins that you can purchase individually. However, joining The Society gives you ongoing support, deeper insights, and access to live discussions.

Business & Logistics

Is Dog Merickel a nonprofit?

We are in the process of setting up a 501(c)(3) nonprofit called the Detection Dog Foundation, which will serve as the fundraising arm for scholarships and educational opportunities.

Do you offer in-person training?

We don’t provide hands-on field training, but we do guide Handlers in preparing for it. We also share insights on where to find the best field trainers and workshops.

Can I teach a course through Dog Merickel?

Yes! Our upcoming OdorQuest Academy will allow experienced Handlers to create and teach virtual classes, earning revenue while contributing to the growth of the detection dog Community.

Get in touch with us

Got questions? Fired up about training? Just want to talk dogs? We’re here for it.

At Dog Merickel, we don’t do cookie-cutter solutions—we craft strategies that work for YOU and your detection dog. Whether you're curious about The Society For Dogs, need a solid training plan, or just want to chat about the latest science in detection training, we’re all ears (and so are our dogs).