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.

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Our Services

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

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

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

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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).