Global Conservation Force’s K9 Handler & Operational K9 Training Course.

K9 Counter-Wildlife Trafficking, Tracking, Scent Detection for Wildlife Conservation and Wildlife Protection Operations is designed to develop competent, efficient, and effective K9 handlers for wildlife conservation, wildlife protection, and counter-wildlife trafficking operations. This hands-on, operationally focused two-week program is tailored to address the real-world needs of conservation K9 deployments.

Trainees will undergo progressive, daily K9 training that builds foundational skills in tracking, scent detection, and bite work, and advances to complex operational scenarios. The program emphasizes handler-dog integration, ethical management, and operational readiness.

Graduates of the course will earn a K9 Handler & Operational K9 Training Certificate

Program Length: Under 2 weeks

Dates: January 12th – 23rd (airport return), 2026

Cost: $1,500 USD

Does not include accommodation, food, or transportation outside of the program

Location: Ens, Netherlands – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Instructors: Mike Veale, Wesley Visscher

Program Highlights:

Daily Progressive K9 Training

Structured lessons building from foundational skills to advanced operational deployment.
Training in multiple disciplines: tracking, trailing, scent detection, and controlled bite work.
Exposure to multiple trained operational K9s to understand different working styles.

Multi-Discipline Scent Detection

Detection of wildlife contraband, narcotics, explosives, snares, SIM cards, and cash.
Techniques for odor imprinting, recognition, and operational search patterns.
Scenario-based training in buildings, vehicles, open terrain, and concealed environments.

Operational Handler Development

Reading canine behavior, managing task focus, and correcting human-caused errors.
Learning how criminals conceal, block, or manipulate searches.
Integrating human skills with K9 abilities to maximize operational effectiveness.

Exclusive and High-Quality Training

Limited enrollment ensures personalized instruction and hands-on access to multiple K9s.
Full access to Scent Imprint Conservation Dogs’ training grounds and equipment.
Opportunity to work alongside expert instructors with extensive field and operational experience.

Learning Outcomes:

Foundational and advanced expertise in K9 handling for conservation operations.
Operational skills for tracking, scent detection, and controlled bite work in field scenarios.
Understanding canine behavior and handler integration in high-stakes operational environments.
Ability to anticipate, recognize, and respond to criminal concealment and evasion tactics.

Who Should Apply:

This course is for dedicated individuals 18 years and up with a passion for wildlife conservation, protection, and operational K9 work. No prior K9 experience is required.

Applicants should be ready to fully engage in hands-on, operationally focused training in real-world field conditions.

Due to the limited number of spots, applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application to ensure consideration.

K9 Handler & Operational K9 Training Course | Netherlands

By Global Conservation Force

K9 Handler & Operational K9 Training Course | Netherlands

K9 Counter-Wildlife Trafficking, Tracking, Scent Detection for Wildlife Conservation and Wildlife Protection Operations