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Our blogs are here to spark curiosity, share expertise, and keep you inspired on your journey as a Handler. We write to connect science, strategy, and real-world experience, offering insights and practical tips that help you and your dog thrive in detection training. Whether you're building foundations or refining advanced skills, our blogs are your guide to purposeful, intentional progress.

The Role of Community in HandlerCraft: How Group Support Elevates Training

The Role of Community in HandlerCraft: How Group Support Elevates Training

April 02, 20253 min read

Training a detection dog can sometimes feel like a solo mission. You’re out there working hard, trying to perfect your dog’s skills, and it can be easy to forget that you don’t have to do it alone. That’s where community comes in. Being part of a group like The Society for Dogs can take your training to a whole new level. With shared knowledge, accountability, and support, a strong community helps both Handlers and their dogs grow and succeed.

Why Community Matters

Training detection dogs is rewarding, but let’s face it—it’s also challenging. Joining a community means you’re surrounded by people who understand the ups and downs of the process. Here’s why that matters:

  1. Accountability: When you share your goals with others, you’re more likely to stick to them. Knowing someone will check in can keep you on track.

  2. Shared Knowledge: No one knows everything, but together, we know a lot. A community allows you to learn from others’ experiences and share your own.

  3. Encouragement: Training isn’t always easy, but having a group to cheer you on can make a big difference. Support from others can keep you motivated during tough times.

How The Society for Dogs Supports Handlers

At The Society for Dogs, we believe that community is one of the most powerful tools a Handler can have. Here’s how we foster connection and growth:

  1. Weekly Coffee Chats: These live Zoom meetings bring Handlers together to discuss training progress, share tips, and celebrate wins. It’s like a pep rally for your training week!

  2. Slack Channels: Our online community is always open. Whether you have a question, want to share a success story, or need advice, The Society’s Slack channels are there for you 24/7.

  3. Expert Insights: We invite guest experts to share their knowledge, giving you access to the latest techniques and research in the field.

  4. Customized Feedback: The Society’s members support one another with honest, constructive advice to help you and your dog improve.

The Benefits of Training in Community

When you join The Society for Dogs, you’re not just joining a group—you’re becoming part of a movement to elevate detection dog training. Here’s what you’ll gain:

  • Inspiration: Seeing others succeed reminds you that progress is possible.

  • Problem-Solving: Stuck on something? The group can help you brainstorm solutions.

  • Confidence: Knowing you have a team behind you can boost your confidence and make training more enjoyable.

Success Stories from The Society

Our members consistently tell us how much being part of The Society has improved their training. One member shared, “I never realized how much I was missing until I joined The Society. The feedback and support have completely changed the way I train my dog.”

Another Handler said, “The weekly Coffee Chats keep me focused and motivated. I always walk away with a new idea to try.”

Join The Society for Dogs Today

Ready to see the difference community can make? The Society for Dogs is here to help you and your dog grow together. With resources, expert advice, and a supportive network, you’ll have everything you need to reach your goals.

Join The Society for Dogs today and take your training to the next level.

Training doesn’t have to be a solo journey. With The Society for Dogs, you’ll find the accountability, knowledge, and encouragement you need to succeed. Let’s build better teams—together!

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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. 

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