August 2025 – Search Skill Development For Your Detection Dog (RT)

This workbook is designed to walk you through a month-long SIMPLE training progression to develop the search skills of young or new detection dogs. The goal is to create independence, confidence, and clear association first to searching then to odor, starting from simple reward searches and building toward realistic, odor-only scenarios. The plan is written in a practical, step-by-step style with full examples, handler coaching notes, success criteria, and reset guidance. Follow it week by week and adjust based on the dog in front of you.