Episode #56 Simon Prins "Ask the curious questions"

Simon Prins

Simon is a specialist in animal behavior and training, with over 25 years experience of handling and training dogs for police and military operations. His ground-breaking work lies at the intersection of robotics, sensors, and canine abilities, contributing to remarkable success in a wide range of missions. 

He has trained a multitude of dogs and handlers from special units across the world, rooted in his firm belief that science can significantly enhance our interactions and work with animals. 

He became a patrol dog handler after joining the Dutch police force, and in 1996 he set up an innovative k9 research and development project, integrating it with covert operations. This involved conceptualizing and developing a training program for radio-guided camera dogs, a system that has achieved global recognition and application. 

In 2002, Simon handpicked and trained 16 dogs and their handlers to initiate USAR, a dedicated search and rescue operation. His pioneering approach took another step forward in 2006 when he began merging dogs and electronics, outfitting radio-directional canines with sensors and enabling them to carry small robots into operations. 

Throughout his career, Simon has written numerous training protocols, invented innovative training apparatus, and is in constant demand internationally both as a speaker and a provider of training workshops. 

He is a staunch advocate of operant conditioning, and is passionate about empowering trainers through tailor-made coaching techniques, seeking to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical training to optimize the effectiveness of operational dogs. 

Currently, Simon leads his own company, ACT!, where he continues to innovate within the remit of police and military k9 training. 

Checkout Simon's website simonprins.com. It's a treasure trove of information and products. 

We are pleased to have Vested Interest in K9's as a sponsor. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c(3) non-profit whose mission is to provide bullet and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs. Check it out www.vik9s.org.

Please welcome Ray Allen Manufacturing as a sponsor to the podcast. Go to the most trusted name in industry for all of your k9 related equipment. For a 10% discount use the RAMWDDP10 discount code.

Welcome our sponsor Gold Coast K9. Gold Coast K9 trains and deploys hand-selected service dogs for personal and family protection, police agencies, and school districts. Their training programs rank among the best and most trusted in the world. Follow Gold Coast k9 on all social media platforms. For 10% off merchandise use the GCK910 discount code on their website www.goldcoastk9.com

HLTK9 Conference continues to be a supporter of the WDDP. They are gearing up for the next conference in Myrtle Beach SC. Plan ahead, the 2026 conference will be April 14 - 16 2026. Register today at www.htlk9.com.

Welcome our newest sponsor NCK9LLC. Located in Four Oaks NC, just east of Raleigh NC. Jim O'Brien and staff offer a variety of K9 services. Contact them at Phone : 919-353-7149 Email: jobrien@nck9.us