The Police K9 Training Podcast with Jeff Meyer

Host Jeff Meyer talks with Matt Wilson, Creative Director and lead product designer at Ray Allen Manufacturing, in an in-depth episode about choosing and fitting K9 equipment. Key topics covered include bite suits (differences between heavy duty, kimono, police-package "marshmallow" suits and semi-competition suits), construction details that protect dogs and decoys (layering, thread break points, mobility), and a practical recommendation for departments to own both a durable pass-around suit and a thinner comp suit for advanced work. The conversation addresses bite sleeves and training purpose: hard sleeves for teaching catch technique and safety, a new soft sleeve with a bicep wedge to bridge the gap between padded suits and bare arms, and when sleeves may or may not be appropriate depending on desired drive and control. Jeff and Matt also discuss muzzle selection and fitting—features like a metal front plate with angled flares, proper nose-to-tip distance, and allowing the dog to pant and feel neutral while maintaining safety. Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                 

In this Part 2 episode of the Police K9 Training Podcast, host Jeff Meyer continues his conversation with Cameron Ford to finish the list of seven essential skills for detection dog handlers. The discussion covers points three through seven: consistency and fairness in training, adaptability and creativity when simulating real-world scenarios, handler self-awareness and discipline, diligent record keeping and reflection, and maintaining emotional balance under pressure. Cameron and Jeff share real-world examples and practical strategies: how to mirror operational protocols in training to avoid learned violations of expectation; creative training venues and setups (Home Depot, stadiums, crowds, coolers) to replicate challenges like wind, contamination, and distractions; the importance of rituals, tactile signals, and reading your dog to avoid handler-induced cues; and the value of variable reward schedules to prevent false alerts. They also stress the need for documentation, video review, peer critique, and a growth mindset that embraces accountability.     To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________             Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                                   

In this episode of the Police K9 Training Podcast, host Jeff Meyer welcomes detection expert Cameron Ford to discuss real-world detection work and the handler skills that make teams consistently successful.  Topics covered include the single most important skill: observation and reading subtle dog behaviors (micro-behaviors, head snaps, tail shifts, baseline recognition). Cameron and Jeff emphasize the value of realistic training — masking training aids, placing aids in luggage and bags, and varying presentations — so dogs generalize to operational conditions. They highlight practical drills like double-blind searches to build handler confidence and truly test team performance. Key training techniques discussed are reinforcement timing and the use of markers to improve clarity and consistency, implementing variable-interval reward schedules so dogs tolerate delayed reinforcement, and training dogs to hold indications for longer periods. They also cover how to remove handler knowledge to avoid cueing, film searches for after-action review, write immediate search notes to preserve accurate observations, and use training to identify and close gaps before they become operational failures. Listeners can expect actionable advice: how to set up realistic training aids, progressions for double-blind work, tips for timing and marker use, and ways to document and evaluate canine behavior. The episode also touches on broader industry trends (court scrutiny, video review) and why blending training and reality will make teams more reliable in the field.     To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________             Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                     

Join Jeff Meyer and guest Art Lopez, director of the Utah POST K9 Program, as they dig into real-world issues facing police K9 teams.  The conversation focuses on administrative and operational challenges: rushing deployments, “chasing the bite,” and changing tactics simply because a dog is present.    To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________             Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                                   

On this episode of the Police K9 Training Podcast host Jeff Meyer welcomes attorney and regular guest Mike Kmiecik of Sheepdog Guardian for an in-depth legal breakdown of a Tenth Circuit case: Luce v. Kyle. Mike walks through the facts, the court’s reasoning, and the practical lessons K-9 teams need to avoid constitutional pitfalls. Topics include qualified immunity, arguable probable cause, unlawful entry, and excessive force claims tied to police canine deployments. Check out Mike's page for Sheepdog Guardian at www.sheepdogguardian.com    To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                               

In Part 3 of the Simplifying Your Detector Dog series, host Jeff Meyer wraps up the short course by explaining how to move a dog from well-imprinted odors to reliable real-world performance. This episode covers imprint verification, expanding search environments, and managing the dog’s physical limits during intensive early training. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                             

Part two of simplifying detector dog training focuses on charging the mark with a verbal marker, teaching dogs to search independently, and imprinting target odors in controlled environments. Jeff Meyer explains using small, limited search areas, off-leash searches, and making the handler intentionally "useless" so the dog learns to rely on its nose and the reward. The episode also covers introducing additional odors, encouraging a natural final response (sit or down) through self-discovery, and keeping the training balance so searching and odor remain primary.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                         

In this first episode of a short series Jeff Meyer explains a simplified approach to detector dog training using markers. He covers charging the mark, teaching dogs to think with successive approximations, and prioritizing strong searching behavior over rote final responses. Jeff also discusses moving training into real-world environments, minimizing overcomplication, and setting handlers up for success as they begin training with a clear, consistent communication tool. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:       AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                     

In this episode of the Police K9 Training Podcast, host Jeff Meyer delves into one of the most frequent challenges faced by narcotics dog handlers: why do trained dogs perform well in controlled settings but often struggle during real-world vehicle searches? Jeff offers insights into recognizing and addressing common issues such as handler dependency, inconsistent rewarding practices, and training environment discrepancies. Discover actionable tips to enhance your K9's independent searching abilities and adapt your training strategies to mirror real-life scenarios, ensuring your team is prepared for the street.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                     

Join Jeff Meyer as he dives deep into the intricacies of managing an effective police K9 unit. Featuring insights from Ron Cloward, listeners will explore crucial aspects of K9 supervision, handler selection, and the critical role supervisors play in both training and real-world deployment. This discussion is a valuable resource for anyone involved in or interested in police canine operations. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                     

In this episode, Jeff is joined by three renowned tracking experts, Steve Colburn, Royce Ilse, and Jay Crafter, who share their vast experience in both urban and rural tracking. They delve into innovative tracking techniques, the importance of scent discrimination, and the distinction between traditional methods and more advanced tracking strategies. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                   

In this episode, Jeff and Michael explore the nuanced use of bite tables in police dog training—offering practical advice for handlers on optimizing this tool beyond traditional applications. They discuss core concepts like drive capping, bite mechanics, and the importance of transitioning skills from the table to real-world scenarios.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                   

In this episode, we delve into the world of canine training with Steve Stoops. Discover the methods to transition dogs from training environments to street-ready warriors, learning to confront adversaries without traditional bite equipment. Steve Stoops shares insights from his experiences in global canine training, including techniques originally honed in top military counterterrorism units and adapted for civilian police work. Engaging in real-world scenarios, dogs are trained for first-time encounters with motionless adversaries, igniting self-volition and readiness. Explore the significance of integrating new training tactics to ensure success and safety for canine teams, highlighting the importance of preparing canines to dominate equipment-free adversaries in diverse environments. Tune in for an episode rich with practical advice aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and confidence of police dog teams.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                   

Join host Jeff Meyer in the latest episode of the Police K9 Training Podcast as he dives into the intricacies of selection tests with experts Brian Laas and Adrian Peech.  Don't miss out on this episode full of practical advice and real-world experiences aimed at improving the efficiency and success of Police K9 Teams by starting with the right dog. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                 

In this episode, Jeff Meyer takes a closer look at the culture within canine units and the broader police department environment. Through his experiences and observations from training handlers across the country, he highlights the impact of cultural influences on canine team performance and unit cohesion. Jeff discusses the importance of selecting the right dogs, effective training practices, and how departmental culture can significantly affect operational success. Join Jeff as he delves into the challenges faced by canine units, from handling aggressive dogs to ensuring officer safety. He shares insightful stories from various police departments, demonstrating the vital role of a supportive and adaptive training culture. Jeff also provides practical advice on how supervisors and handlers can lead by example to foster a professional and effective unit culture. Whether you're a new handler, a seasoned trainer, or a department supervisor, this episode offers invaluable insights into improving culture to elevate your unit's performance. Learn how to make incremental changes that lead to significant improvements and ensure your canine unit is both respected and successful within and outside the department.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/                     

Join Jeff Meyer as he talks about many subjects with Eric Stanbro. In this episode, we explore crucial aspects of canine behavior, including rewarding techniques for narcotics detection dogs and maintaining high performance standards on and off the field. Eric shares his experiences and findings from a scientific study conducted in his agency. To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________           Online Class Click Here      k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/               

In this episode, Jeff Meyer returns with another informative discussion featuring Gary Hadden. They delve into a variety of topics including the intricacies of fentanyl detection and the importance of imprinting dogs on this challenging substance. Gary shares his extensive knowledge on legal challenges associated with narcotics detection and the critical safety protocols handlers must follow.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________            k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/         

In this episode of the Police Canine Training Podcast, join host Jeff Meyer and returning guest Mike Kmiecik from Sheepdog Guardian Consulting as they dive into crucial updates and training insights for narcotic detection dogs.  Jeff and Mike explore recent court rulings impacting the operational procedures of dog handlers, particularly focusing on the Fourth Amendment implications of a dog’s interaction with vehicles during sniff searches. They stress the importance of adapting training methods to comply with new legal interpretations. Throughout the episode, the conversation is seasoned with practical examples and advice, aiming to enhance the skills and knowledge of canine handlers.   To contact Jeff Meyer email him at: JeffMeyer1@outlook.com To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________            k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/         

In this episode, Jeff Meyer sits down with Tim Adams from Next Level K9 to delve into the dog vending business. While Next Level K9 is a sponsor of the show and the Colorado K9 Conference, the focus is on providing a transparent look into the process of acquiring, testing, and training dogs for police work.         AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________            k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/       

Welcome to the Police K9 Training Podcast, hosted by Jeff Meyer. In this episode, Jeff is joined by Howard Young, a seasoned canine trainer, to explore transformative training techniques and strategies for police dogs. They delve into the nuances of effective engagement, addressing challenges such as real-world failures and the importance of tailoring training to individual dog's needs. Howard discusses his upcoming class at the Colorado K9 Conference, titled "Steps to Effective Engagement," which focuses on preparing dogs for real-world scenarios through a blend of modern techniques and proven methodologies. Jeff and Howard share insights on the evolution of canine training, highlighting the importance of minimizing handler-dog conflict and applying scientific principles to improve outcomes.     To see more about Jeff and the classes that are offered go to: www.Policek9Training.net     Thanks to this shows sponsors:     AceK9.com ______________________________________________________________________________ KATS K9 Record Keeping  www.katsplatinum.com ______________________________________________________________________________            k-9services.com _____________________________________________________________________________   Ray Allen K9      https://www.rayallen.com/  ____________________________________________________________________________ The Next Level K9    https://www.thenextlevelk9.com/      _____________________________________________________________________________ For information about the Colorado K9 Conference https://coloradok9conference.com/