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Should Training Look Like Work?

Janie Merickel

Published on: 18/09/2026

Does your detection dog training reflect the realities of operational work? Explore five questions that can help handlers prepare their dogs, their skills and their decision-making for what the work may actually ask of them.

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Are Love and Passion Enough?

Janie Merickel

Published on: 13/02/2026

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.

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What Are We Doing Here?

Janie Merickel

Published on: 06/02/2026

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.

detection dog communityhandler learning communitydetection dog philosophyThe Society For Dogsprotected thinking environmentcollaboration in detection work

Becoming Through the Work

Janie Merickel

Published on: 30/01/2026

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.

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