Joint Symposium for Working K9s

To click or not to click?

In this episode, I interview Dr. Lucia Lazarowski and Bart Rogers of Auburn University's Canine Performance Science Center about a recent study they have wrapped up on the usage of markers for detection dog training. In this study, they compared the learning rate and performance of dogs trained on a detection task using a marker or not. Which was better? Listen in to find out (and read the study here [https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2025.1538452/full]) This study was funded by the Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate, Detection Canine Program Office under contract #70RSAT22CB0000002. This podcast represents the position of the researchers and not necessarily that of DHS.

The spacing or condensed training schedule

In this episode guest host Dr. Lucia Lazarowski interviews Dr. Smith on a recent study conducted at Auburn University exploring the ideal training schedule for dogs. Should training be spaced with breaks or condensed? Which leads to the best outcomes. Listen in to find out. This study was funded by the Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate, Detection Canine Program Office under contract #70RSAT22CB0000002. This podcast represents the position of the researchers and not necessarily that of DHS.

Meet JSWK9 Member Craig Shultz

In this podcast we learn more about Craig Shultz of K9 Sci Con and JSWK9. Learn about his background and where he got introduced to animal training from zoo, marine mammal and detection dogs. Learn more about his workshop at JSWK9, "Drop that reward".

JSWK9 Workshop- Dr. Otto's Keeping Cool

In this episode I speak with the Penn Vet Working Dog Center's Director, Dr. Cindy Otto. We learn about the workshop she is teaching at JSWK9 on Monday April 7th, called Keeping Cool. Learn more about this workshop and how to keep your dog cool!

Interview- Dr. Mia Cobb

In this episode, I interview Dr. Mia Cobb [https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/834478-mia-cobb] Canine Welfare Scientist at the University of Melbourne. Dr. Cobb will be plenary speaker at the JSWK9 conference. Dr. Cobb is the Chaser Innovation Research Fellow in Canine Welfare Science and critical researcher in working dog welfare. In this conversation, Dr. Cobb discusses her journey in animal welfare, the importance of understanding canine needs, and the impact of enrichment programs on guide dogs. She emphasizes the need for transparency in animal welfare practices and the role of societal approval in shaping these practices. The discussion also touches on the legacy of Chaser, a dog known for her remarkable cognitive abilities, and how her story has influenced ongoing research in canine welfare.