The Principles of Conditioning and Training Best Practices for Detection Dogs

This class will cover three key aspects of the principles of conditioning for detection dog training and handling. Part 1 will show how Classical and Operant conditioning can both be leveraged for odor training.

Wednesday
,
Aug 27, 2025
11:30 am
-
1:30 pm
Instructor(s):
Nathan Hall
View full class scheduleRegister for HITS 2026
Nathan Hall presenting The Principles of Conditioning and Training Best Practices for Detection Dogs at HITS.
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Class overview

 This class will cover three key aspects of the principles of conditioning for detection dog training and handling. Part 1 will show how Classical and Operant conditioning can both be leveraged for odor training. Part 2 will show how manipulation of reinforcement schedules can build robust and persistent behavior. Part 3 will show how to train for robust generalization/discrimination to help ensure dogs respond to the range of materials they need to find operationally. At the end of this seminar, attendees will be able to:
  • Differentiate Classical and Operant conditioning techniques for odor detection training
  • Build sustained and robust behavior through schedules of reinforcement
  • Apply the latest research to train for robust generalization to varying target odors

This session explains:

  • Differentiate Classical and Operant conditioning techniques for odor detection training
  • Build sustained and robust behavior through schedules of reinforcement
  • Apply the latest research to train for robust generalization to varying target odors
  • cover three key aspects of the principles of conditioning for detection dog training and handling.
Light beige paper texture background with subtle fibers and creases.Light beige paper texture background with subtle fibers and creases.Light beige paper texture background with subtle fibers and creases.Light beige paper texture background with subtle fibers and creases.Light beige paper texture background with subtle fibers and creases.
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About the instructor

Nathan Hall

Dr. Nathan Hall, PhD,. Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Science at Texas Tech University, Director, Canine Olfaction Research and Education Laboratory Department of Animal Science.

Dr. Hall is an Assistant Professor of Companion Animal Science at Texas Tech University and the Director of the Canine Olfaction Research and Education Laboratory in the Department of Animal Science. Dr. Hall earned his PhD at the University of Florida, specializing in the study of Behavior Analysis and canine olfaction. As a post-doc, he continued his studies at Arizona State University investigating the optimization of training to enhance canine’s detection of Homemade Explosives. At Texas Tech, his work continues to explore canine olfactory perception and how experience influences odor perception. His lab also investigates predictors and correlates of problem behavior, behavioral predictors of working aptitude, and canine health. Throughout his career, Dr. Hall has published numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications and book chapters on canine olfaction and detection abilities.

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What past attendees say

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Go to HITS. It's a great class. Great conference. This is the third one that I've been to. I try and go every time. They change up the classes. It's offered for detection and apprehension or patrol canines. All the classes are great. You should definitely check it out. I'm going to try and come back next year.

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Greg Edlund
Broward Sheriff Office

Hi, this is Brian Laas. I'm from Arvada, Colorado. This is about my second or third time with HITS, and I've enjoyed it greatly. I like the vast amount of instructors' backgrounds, so even though I've come once or twice before, I'm always gaining a lot of knowledge. This is a great seminar for both the new and the old handlers. I think you can't go wrong coming here. It's a good time and well-spent money for your department.

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Brian Laas
Arvada Police Department

Hi, my name is Neil with U.S. Park Police. This is the first time I ever attend HITS and it's great training. A lot of different courses that definitely benefit my career. I've been a handler for 14 years now. I'm still learning and I recommend people to come down here and learn something.

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Neil
US Park Police

Been to hits a couple times, keeps getting better every time. This year it's been amazing, a lot of people, a lot of great classes, great camaraderie between all the agencies here. It's a good time, I highly recommend it.

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Unknown Attendee

Hi, Mark with BCBK9 here at HITS 2017, lets you know what a success it was. Tons of handlers, tons of great classes. We're really glad that we drove all the way out from Missouri and we're looking forward to 2018 being in DC and we hope to see you all there.

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Mark
BCB K9

Yeah, this is my first time it hits. It was a great time. Actually, I've been to a lot of conferences before. This is definitely the best.

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Attendee
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Secure your seat at HITS 2026

Legal defensibility is not theoretical. It is tested in court.

This class helps handlers and agencies prepare before that moment arrives.

Register for HITS 2026
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