Consistency in Dog Training Pt 1

K9 Detection Collaborative

What to listen for:

“You’re constantly writing and rewriting a contract with your dog.”

Today, our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett, and Crystal Wing tackle the power of consistency, the pitfalls of “lumpy” training, and why even small slip-ups can throw your dog off track. They break down how to build a rock-solid training environment and avoid the hidden traps that sabotage progress.

“The clearer and more predictable you are, the faster your dog will learn.”

Our hosts swap real-life stories about cue associations—the good, the bad, and the hilarious. From verbal missteps to accidental signals, they reveal how tiny inconsistencies can shape (or derail) your dog’s responses. Whether you’re training a pet or a working dog, clear communication is everything.

“Inconsistent timing leads to inconsistent outcomes.”

And for the sport and search-and-rescue trainers out there, this episode digs deep into the power of precision and clarity when it comes to reinforcing behaviors. The Dames of Detection challenge quick-fix mentalities, explore discipline-specific mindsets, and make the case for mastering the mechanics that take training to the next level. Tune in next time for part two of this three-part series on consistency in dog training!

Key Topics:

• Why is Consistency Important? (00:00)
• Using Inconsistency Strategically to Highlight Contrast in Your Training (09:18)
• Different Forms of Consistency (14:05)
• “Accidental” Consistency (24:06)
• How Timing Impacts Consistency (25:58)
• Behaviors: Observe, Mark, Pause, Reward (42:00)
• Reinforcement of Mechanics Requires Precision and Clarity (48:16)

Resources:

• Decoding Trainer Lingo (image)
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 11: The D’s of Detection Work
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 134: How Do I Pick My Criteria?
• K9 Detection Collaborative Ep 133: Getting the Most Out of Virtual Coaching

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• K9Sensus Detection Dog Trainer Academy
• K9Sensus Foundation can be found on Facebook and Instagram. We have a Trainer’s Group on Facebook!
• Scentsabilities Nosework is also on Facebook. Here is a Facebook group you should join!
• Crystal Wing (CB K9) can be found here!
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com