Our Blog - The Handler’s Journal
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.
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
Beginnings Matter
As the year turns, I’m thinking less about goals and more about beginnings—where detection work got its language, what dogs showed us before we had names for it, and how those early choices still shap... ...more
Learning
December 31, 2025•6 min read
Video as a Teacher in Detection Dog Training Post
Why Video is the Handler’s Most Honest Teacher explores one of the most underused yet powerful tools in detection dog training: video. While many Handlers hesitate to hit record, video offers what mem... ...more
HandlerCraft
September 26, 2025•7 min read
Building Trust That Lasts
This week’s Journal explores how trust takes shape in our work with dogs—and how the tiniest choices create the strongest foundations. From BRAVING to blank searches, we’re breaking down what it reall... ...more
HandlerCraft
June 26, 2025•3 min read
Honor the Brilliant - On learning
Great handlers don’t just gather knowledge—they learn to apply it with care, clarity, and intention. This week’s Handler’s Journal reflects on staying open to good ideas, listening deeply, and learnin... ...more
Learning
June 19, 2025•2 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).
Email: [email protected]
- 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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