Simon Prins ACT

27/10/2024

Today, I celebrate the 88th birthday of my mentor, teacher, and dear friend, Bob Bailey. When we met back in 1997, neither of us could have imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead—a journey that would turn into a lasting friendship. Over the years, we’ve worked on countless projects together, shared moments of joy and sadness, and trained so many animals side by side. Some of these projects were even classified, but the constant throughout has been our shared amazement at the role animals play in our lives.

Together, we’ve traveled the world, coached countless trainers, and planted seeds of knowledge that continue to grow. Sharing the science and art of animal training has empowered trainers worldwide, and I’m incredibly grateful that Bob—my “Yoda,” as many of us fondly call him—has generously shared so much of his time, wisdom, and experience with me. His guidance hasn’t only made me a better trainer but also a better human, because, as I’ve learned, there are deep connections between training animals and coaching people.

Each time we meet, as we did a few months ago, I’m struck by Bob’s razor-sharp mind and endless curiosity. Happy 88th birthday, Yoda! Looking forward to seeing you again in April!

23/10/2024

Door wat verschuivingen nog twee plekjes vrij in de ACT! Detectie workshop op 9-10 november 2024 in Harderwijk. Wil je meer leren over het trainen van detectie honden? Dan is de 2-daagse ACT! Detectie workshop echt iets voor jou! Want als dierentrainer is het niet altijd eenvoudig om je eigen pad te kunnen c.q durven kiezen. Zoveel meningen, verschillende methodieken, aannames en overtuigingen. Maar wat is nu het beste voor jouw hond, voor je club, jouw beveiligings- of K9 detectie bedrijf?

De ACT! Detectie workshop is boeiend, dynamisch en inspirerend. Deze workshop focust zich op detectie, met specifieke uitleg over verschillende methodieken en wetenschap. Met uiteraard aandacht voor protocollen en het verzamelen van data. En hoe breng je plezier en motivatie in je training, naar je cursisten en naar je honden? Wat zijn de nieuwste technieken? Hoe zien de modernste scent wheels en geur imprint devices eruit? Allemaal tastbaar aanwezig en worden gebruikt tijdens deze workshop. Email naar [email protected] voor meer info.

16/10/2024

Get Ready for a Game-Changer in the Detection Dog World!

We’re back from the USA, and while the ink is still drying on our new contract, we couldn’t wait to share the exciting news: January 2025 marks the beginning of a new era for detection dogs! We are launching an innovative product that bridges the gap between training and science, pushing the limits of what’s possible for both you and your detection dogs. This revolutionary product is designed to elevate your dogs’ performance, challenging them to reach new levels of precision and skill.

What does this mean for the industry?
- Dog training schools will be able to prepare their trainers and dogs more effectively.
- Police, military, and customs will gain tools to enhance efficiency and success in their operations.
- It will transform the way detection dogs are trained, selected, and deployed.

While we still have a lot to do before the official launch, we are beyond excited and wanted to share this major milestone with you. Stay tuned for more updates that you can find in our webshop detectiondogshop.com and go to the section collections 'exciting innovations are on their way'as we take detection dog training into the future! And don't forget to subscribe in our webshop because then you will receive the latest news as one of the firsts!

05/10/2024

I’m deeply thankful, proud, and humbled by the incredible response to my book from K9 professionals around the world. Your heartwarming feedback means so much to me. I’m thrilled that the book has inspired, challenged, and supported so many of you in finding your path within the dog training community. For many, it has been a stepping stone toward achieving their dream job as a handler, while seasoned handlers use it to deepen their understanding of this demanding profession. The book has even become a recommended resource in police, customs, and military training schools—a ‘must-read’ for K9 students.

I’m especially proud to hear how the book has helped trainers who felt stuck in the often judgmental world of dog training. It’s more than a guide; it’s a call to believe in yourself, to never give up, and to bridge the gap between trainers and scientists, because we have so much to learn from one another.
Now available in German (Das Pavlov Projekt), English (Dog Training Decoded), and Czech (Moderní Výcvik Psů), you can order your copy from major retailers or directly from my site, detectiondogshop.com, where I’ll personally sign it for you.

Thank you again for your amazing support—please keep sharing your feedback, it truly inspires me!

29/09/2024

Wil je graag met een detectiehond werken, maar vind je het moeilijk om de juiste targetgeuren te vinden of weet je niet hoe je moet beginnen met geur imprinten? Geen zorgen, wij hebben de perfecte oplossing!

De innovatieve GetXent-tubes stellen je in staat om op een veilige, betrouwbare en wetenschappelijk onderbouwde manier jouw detectiehond op operationeel niveau te trainen. Deze tubes zijn speciaal ontworpen om geur langdurig en stabiel af te geven, waardoor ze ideaal zijn voor zowel individuele trainers als voor bewakingsbedrijven, politie, douane, defensie en andere overheidsinstanties. Dankzij deze producten kun je zonder risico trainen, zelfs op publiek toegankelijke locaties.

Als geautoriseerde en exclusieve dealer geef ik op 8 december een introductie opleiding. Tijdens deze opleiding leer je alle in- en out over dit unieke product. Gedurende deze dag behandelen wij de volgende onderwerpen;
- Het ontstaan van GetXent
- Het impregneren van de blanco GetXent tubes
- Hoe te verpakken
- Hoe op te slaan en langer te bewaren
- Voorkomen van contaminatie
- Hoe start je met het trainen van je hond met GetXent
- Hoe deze te verstoppen om effectief te kunnen trainen
- Handige tips en veelvoorkomende vragen

En natuurlijk is er ook ruimte en tijd om met je eigen hond en de GetXent tubes te trainen. De opleiding wordt gegeven in de omgeving van Elburg of Harderwijk. Dit wordt een actieve intensieve dag. We starten om 0900 en stoppen rond 1700 uur.

Als introductie opleiding hanteren wij een hele scherpe prijs en is inbegrepen een uitgebreide lunch, een duidelijke handleiding en een zakje van 10 geïmpregneerde GetXent tubes (ter waarde van €150,00) met de targetgeur naar uw eigen keuze!
Geef je snel op want vol is vol. Voor meer informatie en inschrijven stuur een e-mail naar [email protected]. Geef direct even aan welke GetXent tubes jij tijdens de cursus wilt ontvangen! Ik kijk er naar uit om je te ontmoeten en met je samen te mogen werken!

29/09/2024

The Power of Change: Why Data and Structure are Key to Dog Training Success

In dog training, we often seek that magic moment where everything clicks. But what if I told you it’s not magic? It’s built through structure, data, and change. Thanks to my mentors, Bob and Marian Bailey, I learned that collecting and analyzing data is crucial yet often overlooked. “Collect data, analyze it, and CHANGE!” they said. It reminded me of Einstein’s words: “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Change is where the breakthroughs happen.

Before I met them, I thought I was doing well by taking notes, but I quickly realized how memory is biased—we tend to remember the successes and forget the failures. True progress only comes when we document our journey and analyze what’s working. Some trainers say tracking data is time-consuming or confusing. But without it, reaching an “operational level” for a detection dog is just guesswork. Data provides structure—and structure is key. Think of boundaries in training not as rigid rules but as clear expectations, like lines on a tennis court. They provide direction and allow for autonomy within limits. When I was training with Pat Nolan, a field trial Labrador became obsessed with diving under a trailer to check for a duck it had once seen. This shows how dogs remember vivid experiences. By allowing them autonomy within structured boundaries, we guide them to the next level.

Training isn’t like baking a cake. My son is a chef, and even when we use the same ingredients, his skill elevates the dish beyond what I can achieve. The same applies to dog training—experience and understanding shape the outcome, even if the steps seem the same.

Science plays a critical role here. It helps us look past anecdotal stories and understand what’s truly effective. I’ve been honored to work with experts like Nathan Hall, Paola Tiedemaan, and Lauryn DeGreeff. Their research helps bridge the gap between what we think we know and what’s happening. So, if you want to take your training to the next level, start with data. Set clear criteria, track your progress, and don’t be afraid to make changes. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about pushing boundaries, learning, and making training effective and enjoyable. For the full blog post, visit detectiondogshop.com. or go directly to https://detectiondogshop.com/blogs/news/the-power-of-change-why-data-and-structure-are-key-to-dog-training-success

In the world of dog training, we often look for that magic moment when everything clicks—when the dog and handler work in harmony, achieving something truly remarkable. But what if I told you that magic doesn’t happen by accident? It’s built through structure, data, and—most importantly—ch...

28/09/2024

Als geautoriseerd en exclusief dealer in Nederland bieden wij met trots de innovatieve GetXent-producten aan – nu tegen een scherpe prijs! Bezoek detectiondogshop.com voor meer informatie over deze aanbieding! Bij ons kun je legaal echte targetgeuren kopen om je detectiehond effectief te trainen. Ons assortiment omvat een brede selectie geuren, zoals explosieven, narcotica, bedwantsen, menselijke resten, digitale opslagmedia, brandversnellers, en nog veel meer.

Wil je graag met een detectiehond werken, maar vind je het moeilijk om de juiste targetgeuren te vinden of weet je niet hoe je moet beginnen met geur imprinten? Geen zorgen, wij hebben de perfecte oplossing! De innovatieve GetXent-tubes stellen je in staat om op een veilige, betrouwbare en wetenschappelijk onderbouwde manier jouw detectiehond op operationeel niveau te trainen. Deze tubes zijn speciaal ontworpen om geur langdurig en stabiel af te geven, waardoor ze ideaal zijn voor zowel individuele trainers als voor bewakingsbedrijven, politie, douane, defensie en andere overheidsinstanties. Dankzij deze producten kun je zonder risico trainen, zelfs op publiek toegankelijke locaties.

Daarnaast bieden we een 1-daagse introductie opleiding waarin je alles leert over het werken met de GetXent-producten. Je krijgt uitgebreide instructies over het verstoppen, opslaan, voorkomen van contaminatie, oplossen van problemen en het optimaal introduceren van je hond aan dit unieke materiaal.

De eerste GetXent-training in Nederland vindt plaats op 8 december 2024. Voor meer informatie en inschrijving, stuur een e-mail naar [email protected].

24/09/2024

If you’ve been searching for a game-changing tool to elevate your dog training, it’s time to discover the power of platform training with Cato Boards. These simple yet highly effective platforms are more than just a tool—they’re a mental anchor for your dog. Here’s why they’re essential to any serious training program. One of the most powerful aspects of Cato Boards is how they transform a dog’s mindset. When a dog steps onto a platform, it’s like flipping a switch. Their focus sharpens, their energy calms, and they’re ready to engage. It becomes their “safe haven”—a clear starting point that helps them block out distractions and channel their attention. Imagine having a tool that boosts your dog’s focus and helps them regain control when things get overwhelming. That’s what Cato Boards bring to the table. Whether you’re training a new skill or resetting behavior, this platform gives your dog the confidence to thrive under any circumstances. If you want to learn more about the power of Cato boards, read my latest blog

If you’ve been searching for a game-changing tool to elevate your dog training, it’s time to discover the power of platform training with Cato Boards. These simple yet highly effective platforms are more than just a tool—they’re a mental anchor for your dog. Here’s why they’re essential ...

23/09/2024

A Call for Unity: Let’s Learn, Grow, and Rise Above the Hate

In the world of dog training—and in life—there will always be different opinions, methods, and philosophies. But we must ask ourselves: How do we handle these differences? Why do some feel the need to respond with aggression, launching hurtful comments or posts in an effort to force someone else to change their views?

Life reminded me of how fragile and precious it is this past weekend. While celebrating my son’s business opening, my best friend was rushed to the emergency room with a severe heart attack. Moments like this make me reflect deeply on the things that truly matter. When life delivers its blows, when chaos strikes, how do we stand strong? Life, as Marcus Aurelius said, often resembles wrestling more than dancing—it requires resilience and vigilance in the face of challenges.

Reflecting on the social media arguments I saw last week, particularly around using e-collars and other controversial training methods, I was struck by the intensity of the hatred and division. I chose not to engage because I don’t believe in “winning,” an argument that only deepens divides. True progress comes not from debate but from dialogue. It comes from listening—really listening—and from understanding that we all grow and learn through trial and error. What I believe today isn’t exactly what I believed 25 years ago, and that’s a natural and necessary part of our journey as trainers and humans.

Social media is not the best place for these kinds of meaningful exchanges. It often amplifies emotions rather than encourages thoughtful reflection. Let's pause before we judge, criticize, or attack someone for their methods or beliefs. Do we have all the information? Do you think this emotional reaction is productive? Will it help anyone change or grow?

As members of this community, I ask you to master your own opinions by seeking the full picture. Read widely. Research deeply. And most importantly, let’s build each other up, not tear each other down. Hatred and aggression don’t change hearts or minds—they only create more division.

When we see a fellow trainer using methods we don’t agree with, instead of attacking, let’s ask why. Let’s open the door to conversation. Dialogue allows us to truly connect, understand, and grow together. That’s how we elevate the art of dog training and become stronger and more united as a community.

Life will always throw us challenges—both personal and professional. But just as in training, the key is not to avoid them but to develop the strength to face them with grace, resilience, and understanding. We must build a foundation of mental and emotional strength, just as we build physical strength in our dogs.

Let’s start today. Instead of reacting with judgment or aggression, choose curiosity. Choose dialogue. Choose to listen, learn, and grow—together.

This message calls for understanding, patience, and openness. It reinforces the idea of community, resilience, and meaningful engagement while directly addressing the problem of hostility on social media.

15/09/2024

Exciting news for all dog trainers in Norway! At the end of November, Simon Prins ACT! will return for another groundbreaking workshop. Due to the overwhelming demand, we’ve added a few more observer spots, so you don’t have to miss this valuable experience and information. If you’re eager to enhance your detection training skills, now is your chance!

Anita Holm from Positivehund.net is organizing this workshop, and it’s set to be an event you won’t want to miss. Although our upcoming workshops in Switzerland, Germany, and Belgium are fully booked, there’s still time to join us in Norway for our final ACT! workshop of 2024. Plus, our 2025 schedule, launching in October, is packed with even more opportunities, so we’re sure we’ll see you somewhere around the world next year!

Don’t miss out on this last opportunity to participate in one of our workshops in 2024! Keep an eye on the agenda at www.simonprins.com for updates, or visit detectiondogshop.com for innovative detection materials and informative blogs to keep you at the top of your training game. Secure your spot now and take your detection skills to the next level!

15/09/2024

Altijd al gedroomd van het werken met een echte detectiehond, maar vind je het lastig om aan de juiste target geuren te komen of weet je niet hoe je moet beginnen met het imprinten van de geur? Wij hebben nu de perfecte oplossing voor jou! Met de innovatieve GetXent tubes kun je op een veilige, betrouwbare, en wetenschappelijke manier je detectiehond trainen tot operationeel niveau.

GetXent biedt een uitgebreide reeks van geuren, van diverse narcotica- en explosieven geuren tot unieke geuren zoals bedwantsen, zonder het risico van ontsnapping tijdens de training. Met deze tubes kun je overal oefenen, zelfs op publiek toegankelijke locaties, zonder je zorgen te maken dat risicovolle stoffen worden weggenomen.

Als geautoriseerd dealer van GetXent bieden wij nu geïmpregneerde GetXent tubes aan voor slechts €150,00 per zakje van 10 tubes – dat betekent maar liefst 1500 uur aan training! Om je volledig te ondersteunen, introduceert ACT! ook de ACT! GetXent opleidingsmodules, startend in december 2024.

Ben je geïnteresseerd en wil je meer weten over onze unieke trainingsmodules in combinatie met de GetXent producten? Neem contact met ons op en verzeker jezelf van een plek in onze opleiding! En voor meer informatie over GetXent tubes check detectiondogshop.com

06/09/2024

As an authorized dealer of GetXent products in the Netherlands, I recently visited the GetXent facilities in Switzerland with Lily Strassberg (USA). Gregory and Quentin provided us with an in-depth explanation of GetXent’s origins, their production process, and the rigorous quality control standards they adhere to. This visit reaffirmed our confidence in the exceptional quality of their products.

GetXent has sparked a revolution in the world of detection training. Their innovative small tubes, made from a patented polymer, have had a significant positive impact on the training of detection dogs globally.

Historically, training detection dogs on real narcotics and explosives has been restricted to agencies like the police, customs, and defense due to the need for special licenses. It was previously impossible for others to train dogs on these authentic scents. GetXent has changed this by allowing their unique tubes to be impregnated with the exact target odors. Licensed holders infuse these tubes with the specific scent molecules required to condition your dog. These scent molecules come directly from the real substance! The tubes retain the scent for up to 150 hours of training, releasing it consistently into the environment.

Best of all, no special permits are required to purchase, possess, or train with these GetXent-impregnated tubes! They are completely safe to use—if one is lost, there’s no cause for concern as the tubes are non-toxic and harmless to humans and animals. The tubes only contain scent molecules, meaning there are no actual dangerous or banned substances present.
As an authorized GetXent dealer, we offer a broad selection of real scent compounds for detection dog training. This includes odors such as narcotics, explosives, data storage devices, bed bugs, and much more. GetXent’s innovative tubes are designed to train your dog to the highest level of precision. We also provide blank GetXent tubes, which can be self-impregnated with any desired target odor. These tubes are easy to hide and can be used in public spaces for safe training. Worldwide, these tubes are already in use by defense forces, police, customs, and security companies, and now they’re available to you!

Thanks to new contractual agreements, we’ve significantly reduced prices. For government agencies, we now offer special discounts, allowing you to train safely in public spaces without the need for expensive safes or air filtration systems in service vehicles. GetXent offers a reliable, straightforward solution for your administrative, safety, and contamination concerns. If you’d like to learn more, we’re happy to advise you on the possibilities.

Among the many scent carriers available, GetXent stands out as the top choice. The strength of GetXent lies in its unique patented technology of Polymer Odor Capture and Release.
-Effective for real-world detection dog training
-Absorbs all odor molecules from a target scent
-Releases these molecules accurately and continuously for up to six months
-Odor-neutral, releasing only the captured molecules, making it safe for public use
-Can be used to train dogs to detect a wide range of target odors

Patented technology based on an innovative polymer
The patented technology (W02018206808) of the GetXent tube provides a safe and effective way to train detection dogs in real-world conditions. These tubes absorb all the odor molecules from a target scent and release them accurately and consistently for up to six months, allowing for long-term training. Since the tubes are odor-neutral and only release the captured scent molecules, they can be safely used in public places without any harmful substances. GetXent tubes (scent detection kits for dogs) are already used across various sectors for canine handler training, including health, environmental monitoring, and defense, such as in disease diagnosis, species detection, and explosive detection. Order these fantastic products easily via our webshop: detectiondogshop.com.

06/09/2024

Heb je jouw passie gevonden in het trainen van detectiehonden? Het opsporen van een stukje Kong of etherische olie blijft een uitdaging, maar je zoekt meer betekenis in je werk? Wil je je hobby naar een hoger niveau tillen en er meer uit halen?

Wij bieden jou de mogelijkheid om je hond op een veilige en gecontroleerde manier te trainen met geuren die nieuwe mogelijkheden openen. Of je nu met narcotica, explosieven of andere speciale geuren wilt werken, wij zorgen ervoor dat je dit op een legale, veilige en wetenschappelijk onderbouwde manier kunt doen.

Als geautoriseerde dealer van GetXent hebben we een uitgebreide selectie van echte geurstoffen beschikbaar voor detectiehondentraining. Denk aan geuren zoals narcotica, explosieven, gegevensdragers, bedwantsen, en nog veel meer. De innovatieve GetXent-tubes zijn speciaal ontworpen om je hond tot in de perfectie te trainen.

Daarnaast bieden we blanco GetXent-tubes aan, die je zelf kunt impregneren met elke gewenste targetgeur. De GetXent-tubes zijn gemakkelijk te verstoppen en maken het mogelijk om ook op openbare plekken veilig te trainen. Wereldwijd worden deze tubes al ingezet door defensie, politie, douane en beveiligingsbedrijven, en nu zijn ze ook voor jou beschikbaar!
Tijdens ons recente bezoek aan GetXent in Zwitserland hebben we diepgaand inzicht gekregen in het ontstaan van het product, het productieproces, en de strikte kwaliteitscontrole. Dit heeft ons nog meer overtuigd van de uitstekende kwaliteit. Bovendien hebben we dankzij nieuwe contractafspraken de prijs kunnen verlagen.

Wij bieden geïmpregneerde GetXent-tubes nu aan voor slechts €150,00 inclusief btw! Bestel deze geweldige producten eenvoudig via onze webshop: detectiondogshop.com.

05/09/2024

During my workshops around the world, I consistently encounter a common challenge among dog trainers across different cultures: what psychology calls “imposter syndrome.” It’s the trainer who begins introductions with a series of excuses—explaining why they aren’t feeling their best, why their dog might not perform well, or why the workshop level is probably too advanced for them and their dog. And this is just at the start of a three-day workshop, during the first round of introductions!

It can also be the observer who tells me their dog isn’t participating due to medical or behavioral issues. It’s the trainer who shies away from challenges, afraid of making mistakes. Or it’s the quiet trainer who follows instructions to the letter but asks no questions, gives no feedback, and focuses too intently on their dog.

Dear fellow trainers, let me share a secret with you. Every time I work with a new dog, coach a new person, or step onto a stage to teach a group, I ask myself the same questions: “Can I train this dog?” “Can I help this person?” “Will I engage this group?” I wonder, “How will I handle mistakes if things go wrong?” or “What if I can’t answer the questions the group asks?”

These doubts are normal. It’s human to question our skills, our success, and our ability to perform under pressure. We all feel those eyes on us when training a dog or coaching a handler, and we all sometimes wonder if we’re doing a good job.

Imposter syndrome touches everyone—whether you’re a dog trainer, a famous artist, a renowned writer, or even a president. Many of us have felt paralyzed by it at some point, caught in a “fight, flight, or freeze” response, wishing we could just disappear.

If imposter syndrome leaves you feeling frozen or overwhelmed, I want you to remember something important: as an animal trainer, you are a special person. Not many people in this world can connect with animals the way you do. You have the gift of bridging two worlds: the human world and the animal world. You earn the trust of creatures who speak a different language, helping them solve problems, caring for them, protecting them, and sharing joy and companionship.

We, as trainers, get to see the world through a unique lens—the world of senses, nature, purity, and instincts. And that connection makes us part of something extraordinary.

One of the most powerful tools that helped me overcome my own moments of self-doubt was Theodore Roosevelt’s speech, The Man in the Arena, delivered on April 23, 1910. It’s about daring greatly, stepping into the arena, and knowing that critics only have power if you let their words in. The truth is, the trainers who stand in that arena with you won’t criticize—they’ll support you, coach you, and guide you. They’ll trust you to do the same for them.

That’s why I use a coaching style known as “feedforward.” Feedback focuses on the past, which we can’t change. Feedforward looks to the future—the place where real growth happens.

So yes, we all doubt ourselves from time to time, but don’t let that rob you of the joy and excitement that comes from training. Remember, instead of criticizing, let’s support each other. Together, we can shape the future.

Enjoy the journey of training!

03/09/2024

Understanding Your Dog: Beyond Stimulus and Response

Training a dog involves more than just giving a command and expecting an immediate response. There’s a whole process between stimulus and response, and this is why I encourage repeated practice of the desired behavior. Training isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about consistency, patience, and understanding.

Often, I see trainers feel accomplished when their dog performs a newly learned behavior correctly two or three times in a row. They assume the dog has mastered the skill and quickly move on to something new. But when the dog starts making mistakes, frustration sets in. Some trainers may then resort to pressure, believing the dog knows the command but is choosing not to obey. But is that really what’s happening?

Consider this: Do you truly believe your dog is deliberately ignoring your SIT or HERE command? Or could it be that something in the environment is distracting them—perhaps a scent we can’t detect or a sound beyond our hearing? When a dog doesn’t “listen,” we often don’t know the exact reason. Guessing isn’t enough; we need to observe, collect data, and analyze the situation.

In addition to practicing with many repetitions and reinforcing your dog with rewards they genuinely enjoy, it’s important to understand the concept of the Matching Law. Simply put, this means that the balance in your training matters. For example, if you’ve reinforced the SIT behavior 1,000 times but the DOWN only 125 times, it’s natural that SIT will be stronger than DOWN. Training is about more than just commands and responses. It’s about repetition, generalization, reinforcement, perseverance, and ownership on the part of the trainer.

So, if your dog isn’t responding as expected, don’t place the blame on them. Instead, reflect on your training methods, review your data, and be prepared to adjust your approach. In 1961, the Brelands wrote an influential article titled Misbehavior of Organisms, where they discussed how misbehavior can occur when reinforcement alone doesn’t explain an animal’s actions. This highlights that training is simple in theory but not always easy in practice.

After over 30 years of working with animals in special operations and various complex environments, I’m still amazed by their intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to cooperate with us—even when we, as trainers, make mistakes. Mother Nature has spent millions of years honing these animals' skills, enabling them to perform complex tasks we ask of them.

So, the next time you give your dog a command, remember that they are intelligent, living beings capable of making their own choices, solving problems, and using sensory and physical abilities that we don’t always fully understand. It’s this incredible capability that makes training dogs so rewarding, even in a world filled with electronics, robots, and sensors that give predictable results.

Enjoy the journey of training, and appreciate the unique bond you share with your dog.