K9s Talking Scents

Cameron Ford
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This podcast is all about Detection Dogs we talking training, working the dog in the real world, starting a new dog or have an experienced dog, this show is for you.  Calling all Detection dogs, Sniffer Dogs, those who compete in Nosework / Scentwork sports.  If you work a detection dog that sniffs out bombs, drugs, guns, cell phones, electronic devices or anything else this podcast is for you 

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Unregulated & Misunderstood: Fixing the Commercial Detection Dog Industry with Dan Donovan

    In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dan Donovan, Founder and Managing Partner of Stratoscope, Ingressotek, Ford K9, and Stratos K9, who recently acquired For Canine and became my business partner. Dan has 30 years in event security, working 13 Super Bowls and 7 Olympic Games, and he's here to expose the hard truths about detection dogs in the private sector. What We Cover: Why 90% of event security professionals don't understand what K9 teams actually doThe shocking reality of an unregulated industry (18-year-old security guards need certification, but K9 handlers don't?)Real incidents from major events - when private dogs saved the day vs. when they failedThe "second dog" problem that wastes time and creates false confirmationsWhy handler training matters MORE than dog trainingBreaking down barriers: why former military/LE background shouldn't be a requirementHow to actually evaluate K9 providers (stop hiring "Scooby Doo" detection services)Dan shares real stories from the field, including a tense situation at a 40,000-person tech conference where a dog alert could have shut down the entire event. We discuss the trust gap between law enforcement and private K9 teams, the punishment culture that makes handlers afraid to call alerts, and what needs to change industry-wide. This episode opens with me presenting Dan with a Naval Special Warfare Multi-Purpose Canine Program challenge coin - one of the rarest coins in the K9 world - as a symbol of trust and partnership. Whether you're a handler, trainer, event security professional, or just interested in detection dogs, this conversation will change how you think about commercial K9 operations. Dan Donovan's Companies:🔗 Stratoscope (Event Security Consulting): https://stratoscope.com🔗 Ingressotek (Weapons Detection Technology): https://ingressotek.com🔗 Stratos K9 (K9 Deployment): https://stratosk9.com🔗 Ford K9 (K9 Training & Certification): [Add link if available]🔗 Dan Donovan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddonovan50/ 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:09 - Opening & Challenge Coin Presentation 00:03:18 - Dan Donovan's Background & Stratoscope 00:05:12 - The Gap in Event Security (Proactive vs Reactive) 00:08:58 - 90% Don't Understand What K9s Do 00:10:30 - Trust Issues: Law Enforcement vs Private K9s 00:13:18 - San Francisco Conference Crisis Story 00:16:25 - The "Second Dog" Problem 00:17:44 - The Unregulated Industry Revelation 00:19:34 - Certification vs Documentation 00:21:04 - Real-World Handler Failures (0-for-3 Story) 00:23:41 - Handler Training Crisis 00:25:15 - What Handlers Should Actually Be 00:27:00 - Technology Parallels (Nvidia & Ingressotek Example) 00:29:06 - The Punishment Culture Problem 00:32:11 - Breaking Down Industry Barriers 00:33:08 - Success Story: From DJ to Top Handler 00:34:23 - Industry Education Needs 00:35:23 - Building Trust Through Knowledge 00:36:08 - Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up

    35 min

  2. 12/12/2025

    The Origin Story of Cameron Ford: K9 Training, Scent Detection & the Making of a Modern Handler

    This special replay episode of K9’s Talking Scents takes listeners back to one of the most insightful conversations ever recorded about the man behind Ford K9 and Stratos K9 — Cameron Ford. Originally aired on Miss Understood with Rachel Uchitel, we’re bringing it to our K9TS audience so you can hear Cameron’s journey in his own words. With more than 25 years in the detection dog world, Cameron shares:• How he got started in K9 handling and why scent detection became his life’s work• The evolution of working-dog training from military deployments to civilian law enforcement• How science, data, and cognition research shaped the Odor Pays system• Why modern security demands mission-specific detection dogs• The misconceptions the public still has about K9 teams• The real responsibilities of handlers in today’s threat landscape This episode also touches on timely security concerns — including the increasing importance of detection dogs in preventing real-world threats — and how Cameron’s work continues to influence the future of the K9 profession. Whether you’re a handler, trainer, supervisor, or someone who simply wants to understand the mind behind Ford K9, this replay offers a rare personal look into Cameron’s history and what drives his passion for the industry.

    1h 11m

  3. 26/11/2025

    #129 Punished by Reward with Michael Ellis

    In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, Cameron Ford sits down with world-renowned trainer Michael Ellis for one of the most in-depth conversations ever recorded on reinforcement theory, over-arousal, odor commitment, reward schedules, and why many detection dog programs unintentionally create false alerts.Together they break down the problems behind “reward-rich” training systems, how reinforcement can become punishing, why omission matters, and how to build dogs who persist, stay committed to odor, and search with accuracy — even in operational environments where rewards rarely come.This episode covers:• Why dogs become toy-obsessed instead of odor-committed• How handlers accidentally create false alerts• Why “continuous reinforcement” destroys operational reliability• Rewarding search vs rewarding finds• The science of frustration, dopamine, and over-performance• The difference between learning behavior and maintaining behavior• Why real-world deployments MUST be represented during training• How to introduce blanks, variable schedules, and expectation violation• "Satan’s Infinite Loop" and how trainers build bad habits into dogs• Why many dogs don’t indicate because they want the search to continue• How to build persistent, reliable, stable detection dogsIf you’re a detection dog handler, trainer, supervisor, or K9 program manager, this is a masterclass.CHAPTERS00:00 — Intro & catching up01:00 — Online education & training libraries02:00 — Are rewards harming performance?05:00 — Reinforcement vs intrinsic motivation07:00 — Over-arousal in detection dogs08:30 — Searching for toys vs searching for odor10:00 — False alerts & frustration12:00 — The “cheat code” problem14:30 — Reward-rich environments vs real deployments17:00 — Continuous vs variable reinforcement19:00 — Training that mirrors real-world operations21:30 — Expectation violation & handler discomfort23:00 — Why easy training creates weak dogs26:00 — Dogs that quit vs dogs that persist28:00 — Reducing rewards without breaking the dog30:30 — Reading search behavior correctly32:00 — Consistency in training fundamentals35:00 — Foundation errors that create future problems38:00 — When to introduce blanks41:00 — Reinforcing end-of-search behaviors44:00 — Fixing continuously rewarded dogs47:00 — Why dogs miss the first odor49:00 — Over-arousal & compensation behaviors52:00 — Indication obsession & unintended consequences54:00 — Odor recognition vs sit/down behavior57:00 — Natural indications & reading the dog59:00 — Satan’s Infinite Loop explained________________________________________🧠 TRAIN WITH FORD K9 — ONLINE & IN PERSONLevel up your detection dog training with Ford K9’s full education ecosystem:🔥 ONLINE COURSES & LECTURESOdor Pays System, Air Movement, Cognition, Problem Solving & more👉 https://FordK9.com🔥 FORD K9 MEMBERSHIP (BEST VALUE)Members-only seminars, monthly lessons, exclusive Q&As, full video library👉 https://FordK9.com/memberships🔥 IN-PERSON CLASSES — SANTA ROSA, CADetection Handler SchoolDetection Dog Training ClassOdor Pays Workshops👉 Sign up at: https://FordK9.com🛡️ STRATOS K9 — EVENT & VENUE DETECTION TEAMSPremier Explosive Detection & Firearm Detection Dog teams for:• Large-scale events• Conferences & expos• Concerts & festivals• Corporate security & dignitary operationsOur dogs are specialists, not generalists — one mission, one discipline, no cross-training.👉 Learn more: https://StratosK9.com📩 For event inquiries: info@stratosk9.com🐕 CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIALSStratos K9Instagram: https://instagram.com/stratosk9LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/stratosk9Ford K9Instagram: https://instagram.com/fordk9detectionFacebook: https://facebook.com/FordK9Detection

    1h 11m

  4. 13/11/2025

    #128 Dr. Melanie Uhde | Puppies & A Clown Riding A Bicycle

    In this episode of K9's Talking Scents, I sit down with Dr. Melanie Uhde from Canine Decoded for an in-depth conversation about canine neuroscience and puppy development. We explore the critical early developmental periods, how a puppy's brain processes learning differently than an adult dog, and the science behind fear periods. Dr. Uhde breaks down complex neuroscience concepts into practical insights for dog trainers and handlers, discussing everything from the pros and cons of early detection training to the role of dopamine, cortisol, and serotonin in behavior. We also dive into controversial topics like the balanced vs. force-free training debate, the increasing use of anxiety medications in dogs, and fascinating cultural differences between how dogs are raised and treated in the US versus Germany. Whether you're raising a puppy, training detection dogs, or just fascinated by canine behavior and neuroscience, this conversation offers valuable insights backed by science and real-world experience. Guest:Dr. Melanie Uhde - Canine Neuroscientist & Founder of Canine Decoded Find Dr. Melanie Uhde: Instagram: @caninedecodedYouTube: Dr. Melanie Uhde / Canine DecodedWebsite: Canine DecodedChapters 0:00:00 - Introduction & Welcome 0:02:19 - Canine Decoded Update: Growth & New Programs 0:04:31 - Navigating the Balanced vs Force-Free Debate 0:12:01 - The Science Communication Challenge 0:24:05 - Peer Review Process: Behind the Scenes 0:42:25 - Research in Dog Training: What Makes Good Science 0:56:42 - Puppy Brain Development: 8-10 Weeks 1:06:00 - Fear Periods: What to Watch For 1:13:54 - Managing Novel Objects & Environmental Exposure 1:17:45 - Starting Detection Work Early: Pros & Cons 1:19:12 - Resilience & Stress Recovery in Puppies 1:20:18 - Learning from Hunting Dog Communities 1:24:15 - Olfaction vs Vision: How Dogs Process Information 1:29:05 - Drive, Arousal & Optimal Learning States 1:32:52 - Possessiveness & Social Dynamics in Dogs 1:37:47 - Cultural Differences: US vs Germany Pet Stores 1:40:00 - Dog Culture in Germany vs United States 1:47:33 - Wrap Up & Where to Find Dr. Uhde

    1h 52m
  5. #127 What Makes a Great Detection Dog Team? A Deep Dive with Melinda Ruopp

    30/10/2025

    #127 What Makes a Great Detection Dog Team? A Deep Dive with Melinda Ruopp

    In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford welcomes Melinda Ruopp — a leader in the science of detection dog training and deployment. Melinda brings decades of experience in research, program development, and scientific evaluation of canine teams. From field-based decision-making to the nuanced variables behind effective training, she breaks down: Why measurable standards must evolveThe difference between qualified and quantifiedBalancing handler instinct with data-driven insightsLessons from research projects like mine detection and FEMAHow to test what your dog actually understandsWhether you’re a handler, trainer, or program supervisor, this conversation bridges the gap between operational demands and scientific rigor. 📌 Sponsored by DogBase.co 🐾 Become a member at FordK9.com

    2 hr
  6. #126 "It's The Bomb" with Jeff Meyer

    16/10/2025

    #126 "It's The Bomb" with Jeff Meyer

    In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with veteran detection dog trainer and educator Jeff Meyer for a thought-provoking conversation about building clarity in K9 training. Jeff shares insights from years in the field, including: Why “finding the hide” isn’t the goal — and how that mindset leads to confusionThe power of clean repetitions and simple setups in shaping behaviorWhy trainers must let go of their ego to truly trust the dogBreaking down the concept of “Odor Pays” and reinforcing decision-makingHow to create strong, replicable behaviors that thrive in the real worldWhether you're a new handler or seasoned instructor, this episode is packed with honest reflections, tactical advice, and a no-BS approach to advancing your detection work. 🔗 Brought to you by our sponsor: 👉 DogBase.co – The ultimate platform for managing detection dog training records and progress. 🎓 Want to go deeper? Join the Ford K9 Members Program at https://www.fordk9.com for exclusive lectures, operational training, and instructor-led feedback. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: Cameron welcomes Jeff Meyer 03:52 – Jeff’s background & foundational training beliefs 11:41 – “Find the hide” mindset: why it fails 18:27 – Clean reps vs. over-challenging the dog 25:03 – Handler timing, pressure, and building confidence 30:44 – Ego vs. outcome: learning to let go 38:18 – Why 9/10 reps should be simple, not flashy 45:02 – The power of being still: handler restraint 49:35 – Real world performance vs. training theatrics 56:41 – Odor Pays: reinforcing decision-making 1:01:52 – Jeff’s advice to new handlers and instructors 1:05:20 – Outro & closing thoughts

    1h 17m
  7. #125 A Conversation About Variable Reinforcement with Cameron and Natalie

    02/10/2025

    #125 A Conversation About Variable Reinforcement with Cameron and Natalie

    In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, Cameron Ford has a conversation about variable reinforcement with Natalie Morris — a detection dog trainer, evaluator, and educator who brings unmatched passion and clarity to the K9 community. Together, they explore: The realities of training K9 teams for operational readinessHow science and fieldwork should inform training practicesWhat too many handlers are getting wrong in documentationThe psychological edge required to build true canine trustWhether you're a seasoned handler or just getting started, Natalie breaks down complex concepts like variable reinforcement into actionable insights. Her unique approach to education, her transition from handler to national evaluator, and her deep respect for both dogs and humans make this a must-listen. 🐶 Sponsored by DogBase – Optimize your detection dog program with powerful tracking & performance tools: 👉 https://dogbase.co 🎓 Become a Ford K9 Member – Unlock exclusive training content, lectures, and workshops: 👉 https://fordk9.com/members Chapters 00:00 - Introduction & Natalie’s K9 Journey 04:55 - Building Trust Between Handler and Dog 09:10 - Science vs Field Experience in Training 15:45 - Evaluating Teams: What Really Matters 22:30 - Common Handler Mistakes in Documentation 28:55 - Teaching Through Failure: Canine Psychology 35:40 - Advice for New Trainers Entering the Industry 42:12 - Why Membership-Based Training Changes the Game 46:45 - Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Opportunities

    52 min
  8. #124 Canine Supervision and Leadership with Chief Eric Smith

    18/09/2025

    #124 Canine Supervision and Leadership with Chief Eric Smith

    In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith for an honest and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, training, and the evolving role of K9 units in modern law enforcement. Chief Smith reflects on: His personal journey from patrol officer to Chief of PoliceHow his hands-on experience with dogs shaped his leadership styleThe real-world value of K9s in building community trust and tactical successHis thoughts on transparency, public perception, and the future of policingThis is a must-listen for handlers, supervisors, and anyone who wants to understand how high-level leadership decisions affect the boots on the ground — and the paws on the pavement. 🔗 Sponsored by: Dogbase.co 🎓 Learn more or become a member at: FordK9.com Chapters 00:00 - Intro: Chief Eric Smith Joins the Show 01:15 - How Eric Got Into Law Enforcement 04:40 - Early K9 Influences & First Impressions 08:20 - Lessons From the Streets: Patrol Before K9 12:45 - Working With K9s in Real-Time Scenarios 16:30 - A Look Inside Orlando PD’s K9 Unit 20:40 - Finding the Right Handler: More Than a Test 25:05 - Why K9s Aren’t Just Tools — They’re Partners 28:20 - Training Evolutions: Old School vs New School 32:50 - Mental Health & K9 Handlers 37:40 - Leadership Lessons: From Handler to Chief 42:10 - How Chiefs Can Better Support K9 Units 46:35 - Advice for Aspiring Handlers or Leaders 51:00 - Rapid Fire Round: Favorite Dog Stories & More 55:45 - Final Thoughts: What Makes a Good K9 Team

    1h 22m
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About

This podcast is all about Detection Dogs we talking training, working the dog in the real world, starting a new dog or have an experienced dog, this show is for you.  Calling all Detection dogs, Sniffer Dogs, those who compete in Nosework / Scentwork sports.  If you work a detection dog that sniffs out bombs, drugs, guns, cell phones, electronic devices or anything else this podcast is for you 

Information

  • Creator
    Cameron Ford
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    131
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Cameron Ford
  • Show Website
    K9s Talking Scents

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