Welcome to Dog Merickel

Empowering Detection Teams Through Science and Community

Why We Do This

Because HRD Handlers deserve better—better tools, a better Community, and better ways to learn and grow. We understand how isolating and costly this work can be, but we also know how deeply rewarding it is when we get it right.

That’s why we pour our passion into creating science-driven tools, ThinkTank-style collaborations, and a space where we rise together.

This isn’t just training—it’s a calling.

This work found us, and we’re here to honor it. Fueled by a love of learning, an obsession with dogs, and a belief in the power of connection, we’re building a movement where Handlers and their dogs push boundaries, redefine success, and achieve greatness.

Driven by Science, Guided by Dogs

Empowering HRD Handlers and their dogs to achieve excellence

At Dog Merickel, our mission is to elevate detection teams worldwide through science-driven tools, personalized coaching, and a supportive community.

Our Services

Unlock your dog’s full potential with science-driven training. From expert-led community discussions to step-by-step detection plans, our services provide the tools, strategies, and support to elevate your training and achieve real-world results.

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The Society For Dogs

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The Society For Dogs

Join the ultimate think tank for detection dog Handlers. The Society For Dogs is where science, strategy, and community collide—giving you the tools, discussions, and expert insights to elevate your team’s success.

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OdorQuest

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OdorQuest

Master the art of detection with science-driven training. OdorQuest isn’t just a program—it’s your step-by-step path to building a confident, reliable detection dog through proven techniques and intentional training.

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Training Plans

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Training Plans

Level up your training—one plan at a time. Designed for real-world results, these bite-sized, expert-crafted training plans (starting with Odor Origins and soon, Focused Detection) give you a clear, actionable roadmap to detection dog success.

Our Goals

At Dog Merickel, our goals define us:

Deliver Better Tools: Innovative, accessible, and effective training plans designed to help you and your dog reach new heights.

Build a Thriving Community: A connected space for Handlers to share, learn, and grow together.

Unleash Potential: Push boundaries, set new standards, and achieve greatness through structured training and support.

Ready to Join the Movement?

At Dog Merickel, we don’t just train dogs—we create partnerships rooted in trust, communication, and excellence.

Explore our programs, connect with our Community, and take the next step in your HRD journey.

Our Promise

Our promise? To bring you sharp tools, smart strategies, and a Community that’s got your back. We work to transform Handlers and their dogs into unstoppable teams.

The Handler's Journal Blog

Say bye-bye to guessing!

Say bye-bye to guessing!

June 06, 20252 min read

Training a detection dog requires:

* Precision

* Dedication, and a

* Deep understanding of canine behavior.

Steve White's "8 Signs of Odor Indication" offers a valuable framework. Dog Handlers can learn to recognize and interpret information to improve. This process outlines 8 specific signs displayed by our dogs during detection tasks.

Incorporating this method aligns perfectly with Dog Merickel's mission. We focus on developing top-tier human remains detection dog training tools. Let's explore this one. 

Here's how understanding these signs can elevate your training process:

1. Increased Sensitivity

Familiarizing yourself with the signs of odor indication may help you. If you recognize the very first traces of odor you can support your dog's ability to follow that up. Studying the signs of odor recognition might help you, help your dog. And you can both understand detecting smaller amounts of odor earlier.

2. Improved Communication

Knowing the signs allows for clearer communication between you and your dog. This fosters a stronger bond and facilitates more efficient reinforcement of correct responses.

3. Reduced False Alerts

Understanding the specific signs of odor recognition minimizes false alerts. This may enhance the accuracy of your detection abilities in real-world scenarios.

4. Focused Training

Structuring training sessions around each sign enables a targeted approach to skill development. When your dog gains a clear understanding of expectations, it may lead to more effective detection work.

5. Consistency

Applying information gained from this study provides clear guidance.  Reinforcing desired behaviors and maintaining reliability throughout training sessions is a great thing!

6. Problem Solving

When challenges come up, understanding your dog's behavior helps you to troubleshoot. You can address issues effectively. This ensures a smoother training process and quicker resolution of any obstacles encountered.

7. Handler Confidence

Deepening your understanding of these signs boosts your confidence in your dog's abilities. This may foster better teamwork and performance during detection tasks.

8. Adaptability

Different scenarios may need your dog to recognize subtle variations in odor. Studying these signs equips you with the knowledge to adapt your training approach. You might be ready for a variety of situations.

Look at this process as a  tool to enhance your detection dog's sensitivity, accuracy, and reliability.

You can elevate your team's performance in real-world detection tasks, aligning perfectly with Dog Merickel's commitment to developing the best human remains detection dog training tools.

Unlock the full potential of your detection dog today with this science-driven approach. Check out "1,000 Hour Eyes" by Steve White for the full process and video tips.


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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).

  • Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Join the Conversation: The real magic happens inside The Society For Dogs—grab your spot here!

Drop us a message, and let’s make things happen. 

Follow Us

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Every sniff has a purpose. Every step has a strategy. Dog Merickel – Where Handlers and dogs crush goals together.

Contact Us

  • 62 Audrey Circle

  • Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

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