What We Do
We Train The Human End Of The Leash.
What We Do
We Train The Human End Of The Leash.
What We Do
We Train The Human End Of The Leash.
What We Do
We Train The Human End Of The Leash.
K9Research & Training Complex
Synergizing The Lab & The Field
Set on 520 acres in Iowa, The K9Sensus Education and Research Complex (ERC) provides extensive opportunities for training. Whether it be night operations or trainer interaction with a variety of animal species, the site will expand trainers’ understanding of learning processes and behavior.
Our Great Honor
Designed for owner/handler/trainers
Introducing the K9Sensus Detection Dog Trainer Academy! This comprehensive program is specifically designed to equip you with the fundamental skills necessary for success in canine detection. Whether you aim to work with in the private sector, train your own sport detection dog, or enhance your knowledge as a law enforcement or military handler/trainer, our program will provide you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to excel in this dynamic field.
Hybrid Model
Dive into an extensive 16 week course with interactive online modules that provide in-depth knowledge and the essential skills you need to succeed.
Stay connected with instructors and peers through live virtual sessions and feedback on training videos. Receive personalized feedback and support to ensure your learning journey is as effective as possible. Culminate your learning experience with an immersive in-person training opportunity at the Foundation. Apply what you've learned and gain invaluable hands-on experience.
Designed for Owner/Trainers
Learn from instructors who bring their hands-on experience and personal success stories to the classroom. Our thoughtfully designed curriculum is specifically crafted to provide owner/trainers with all the essential knowledge you need. From basic training techniques to troubleshooting methods, we’ve got you covered!
Gain practical skills that you can immediately apply with your own dog. Our instructors will guide you through training, ensuring you feel supported in your path.
Small Class Size
We keep our classes small, with only 6 to 10 students. This ensures you receive personalized attention and can actively engage in discussions. Our dedicated instructors are committed to your success. With smaller class sizes, they can provide thorough answers to your questions and support you every step of the way.
Enjoy invaluable networking opportunities as you connect with other passionate trainers. Share insights, ideas, and experiences that will enrich your understanding and growth.
Join us and experience a training program designed not just for learning, but for personal and professional growth! Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and take the first step in this exciting journey!
Science and Craft
Detection dog training is where cutting-edge behavior science meets the intricate art of scent detection. Our Academy offers a unique apprenticeship experience, allowing you to master these skills comfortably from your own home.
Guided by seasoned trainers, discover the different ingredients and combinations of skills needed to create a fluent detection dog.
Educational Design
and Support
Pricing
Immerse yourself in a comprehensive educational journey with 45-50 direct lecture hours, meticulously crafted to match the rigor of an undergraduate college course. Enhance your knowledge and skills through weekly assignments, engaging discussion questions, a wealth of additional supporting materials, and individualized coaching.
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Our course offers personalized growth with timely feedback on your training videos, ensuring a deep understanding and mastery of the craft and science of detection dog training.
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Elevate your professional capabilities and stand out in your field with an education that rivals college-level instruction. Secure your spot today and take the next step in your career!
16 Week Detection Dog Training Course .................$5,000
Includes deposit and program materials.
Flexible Timing, Extensive Support, Personalized Feedback
Understand the science, develop the craft
The program, offered each spring and fall, and gain valuable skills in training detection dogs through a structured 16-week virtual learning classroom. This immersive online course is designed for your convenience, allowing you to learn and grow from anywhere in the world.
The experience culminates with an exclusive two-week resident opportunity, where you apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and hands-on training.
Step into a dynamic virtual classroom that offers twice-weekly lectures designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. Benefit from the guidance of a dedicated Lead Instructor and a team of assistants committed to your success. Enhance your learning with twice-monthly office hours, providing personalized support and additional insights to deepen your understanding.
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Take advantage of a wealth of supplemental materials that complement your lectures and enrich your educational journey.
Engage with weekly training assignments that challenge and expand your capabilities, while receiving timely, constructive feedback to enhance your understanding and effectiveness.
Immerse yourself in an apprenticeship experience that combines scientific knowledge with personalized feedback to master the craft of detection dog training. Our program is meticulously designed to guide you in honing your skills and elevating your expertise.
Detection Dog Owner/Handler/Trainer
Our meticulously designed course is the ultimate resource for professional Detection Dog Handlers across a wide range of disciplines. Whether you're a law enforcement or military working dog handler, a Search and Rescue (SAR) canine handler, or if you specialize in bedbug detection, conservation detection, or are a sport dog competitor, this course is tailored to enhance your expertise. Join us with your own dog and experience hands-on training that aligns with your field.
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Narcotics
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Explosives
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Human Remains Detection
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Conservation
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Sport
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Multitudes of other discplines
Based in the University Extension Model
As a practitioner who trains others, it became very clear a different type of training resource is needed for those who wish to train their own detection dog. Creating a cadre of handlers, trainers, instructors, and coaches who support each other, talk training, and enjoy detection with their canine partner is the goal of the K9Sensus Detection Dog Trainer Academy.
In 2009, Paws of Life, the predecessor to the K9Sensus Foundation, launched the “Working K9 Handler Academy” with the help of Iowa State University Outreach which hosted the Academy for about six years. I provided a few online classes, mainly in search strategy, crime scene preservation, and an introduction to K9 SAR. In 2015 or so, the Academy was brought under roof. In person classes were fit in between my own training, working a full-time job, and being a certifying official.
Fast forward several years to when I worked at Iowa State University and was closely engaged with Extension Faculty who brought Science into Practice on a daily basis as part of their job. Their job was to take the peer reviewed research and bring it to a practitioner’s level, applying it to everyday problems. They also created educational programming.
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This is where the thought of “theory into practice” started. This is how the Foundation would serve the K9 industry, by providing a translational resource for practitioners.
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