Product Description

Join us at Leerburg for Kevin Sheldahl's Seminar on Detector Dog Training - The Next Steps. The seminar will occur from Friday, May 15 through to Sunday, May 17 in Menomonie, WI. Trainers looking to advance their dog’s detection training are invited.

Working spots are available for All Level of dogs! Please select "Working Spot" when purchasing. After checkout, we'll send you an email to confirm more details.

View hotel and lodging information in Menomonie, WI.

Whether you're starting from scratch with a young dog or refining advanced skills, Kevin will work with dogs at all levels. Scent work isn't just for working K-9s — it's one of the most mentally enriching activities you can offer your pet. Dogs are built to use their noses, and giving them structured scent work taps into their natural hunting drive in a way that burns mental energy, builds confidence, and strengthens your bond. It's a low-impact activity perfect for dogs of any age or physical ability, and it translates beautifully into competitive nosework, shed hunting, or simply giving your dog a job they love. If you've ever wanted to try scent work but weren't sure where to start, this is your opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field.

Missed Part 1? Here's What You Need to Know

This seminar is a continuation of Kevin Sheldahl's first detection seminar, held at Leerburg in November 2025. If you didn't attend Part 1, don't worry — you can still catch up and prepare for Part 2.

Read about the first seminar and what we covered.

In Part 1, Kevin laid the groundwork for building a solid detection dog, covering:

• Establishing drive and motivation for scent work
• Introducing target odors and building the foundation for indication behaviors
• Demonstrating Primary and Secondary reward systems
• Setting up training progressions that prevent common pitfalls

If you're joining us for Part 2, we recommend reviewing the material from the first seminar by taking our online course: Foundations of Scent Work Training. This course captures everything Kevin taught in Part 1 and will ensure you're ready to dive into the next steps with your dog.

About Kevin

The instructor for our seminar is Kevin Sheldahl. There are very few people in this country who have Kevin's qualifications. We have attached a link to his resume below.

Read Kevin Sheldahl's resume.

Kevin has been involved in detection training since the mid 1980’s and has taught teams in narcotics detection, explosives, contraband (corrections), wildlife detection, as well as human remains. He also handled detection dogs of various types throughout his career as a Deputy in a large SW Sheriff’s Department. Currently retired from full time law enforcement Kevin is still heavily involved in training teams for many disciplines and is qualified as a Teaching Judge. Kevin is also active in dog sports and is currently an American Schutzhund Judge. In this role, he judges scent work for those titles/certificates. Currently, Kevin is preparing to begin his 72nd course in Basic Handler Training for law enforcement. Kevin is also a frequent instructor at seminars and workshops on detection training, tracking, and patrol work.

Important Note

Seminars are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please view our Return Policy for more information.