K9s Talking Scents
This podcast is all about Detection Dogs we talking training, working the dog in the real world, starting a new dog or have an experienced dog, this show is for you. Calling all Detection dogs, Sniffer Dogs, those who compete in Nosework / Scentwork sports. If you work a detection dog that sniffs out bombs, drugs, guns, cell phones, electronic devices or anything else this podcast is for you
K9s Talking Scents
#124 Canine Supervision and Leadership with Chief Eric Smith
In this episode of K9’s Talking Scents, host Cameron Ford sits down with Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith for an honest and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, training, and the evolving role of K9 units in modern law enforcement.
Chief Smith reflects on:
- His personal journey from patrol officer to Chief of Police
- How his hands-on experience with dogs shaped his leadership style
- The real-world value of K9s in building community trust and tactical success
- His thoughts on transparency, public perception, and the future of policing
This is a must-listen for handlers, supervisors, and anyone who wants to understand how high-level leadership decisions affect the boots on the ground — and the paws on the pavement.
🔗 Sponsored by: Dogbase.co
🎓 Learn more or become a member at: FordK9.com
Chapters
00:00 - Intro: Chief Eric Smith Joins the Show
01:15 - How Eric Got Into Law Enforcement
04:40 - Early K9 Influences & First Impressions
08:20 - Lessons From the Streets: Patrol Before K9
12:45 - Working With K9s in Real-Time Scenarios
16:30 - A Look Inside Orlando PD’s K9 Unit
20:40 - Finding the Right Handler: More Than a Test
25:05 - Why K9s Aren’t Just Tools — They’re Partners
28:20 - Training Evolutions: Old School vs New School
32:50 - Mental Health & K9 Handlers
37:40 - Leadership Lessons: From Handler to Chief
42:10 - How Chiefs Can Better Support K9 Units
46:35 - Advice for Aspiring Handlers or Leaders
51:00 - Rapid Fire Round: Favorite Dog Stories & More
55:45 - Final Thoughts: What Makes a Good K9 Team