A Conversation with Denise Fenzi Part 2: Choosing the Right Dog for the Job

K9 Detection Collaborative

What to listen for:
In part two of their discussion with the brilliant Denise Fenzi, our hosts Robin Greubel and Crystal Wing explore the delicate dance between striving for precision and cherishing the quirks of canine behavior!

“Your dog has to have a lot of ‘want to.’ If they don’t have a lot of ‘want to,’ they’re not the right dog for the job.”

Denise explains why picking the right dog for the job from the get-go is foundational to success. When you bring a dog with the right desire to the table, your job as a handler–controlling and shaping that desire–becomes much easier.

She also talks about identifying essential behaviors like a reliable whistle recall and advocates for a training philosophy driven by motivation and enthusiasm rather than obligation. She tackles ethical dilemmas faced in high-pressure operations and tells us to always prioritize the well-being of both the dog and the handler.

Denise also discusses the controversial use of e-collars and the pursuit of perfect recall. She explores the sensitive topic of rehoming, advocating for it as a positive solution when there is a mismatch between the dog's needs and the owner's expectations.

“Leadership is about setting a path. You can’t take on a leadership position if you’re not willing to say unpopular things.”

Denise gives her thoughts on leadership and personal growth through the lens of dog training. Early socialization, adaptability, and setting boundaries are crucial themes in building confidence and respect in dogs.

Finally, Denise tells us why she believes dogs are being over-socialized today, and why she’s totally against doggie daycare for puppies!

Key Topics:

• Reinforcing Nonnegotiable Behaviors (02:28)
• Choosing the Right Dog for the Job (10:00)
• Rehoming Your Dog (22:05)
• Denise’s Thoughts on Negative Online Discourse (22:34)
• Setting Boundaries and Becoming a Better Leader (32:11)
• Giving Your Dog Freedom (43:05)
• Box Feeding (47:33)
• What’s Next for Denise? (55:30)
• Key Takeaways (58:22)

Resources:

• Fenzi Dog Sports Academy

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 K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com to enjoy the freebies, and tell your friends so you can keep the conversations going.

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