Raising the Bar: Introducing the Black Hills Working Dog Club - New Midwest KG Club and IGP Seminar with Marko Koskensalo

By: Dan Gullickson

Photos by: Kelli Poole with Full Curl Photography and Lars Sahlen with Centennial Schutzhund Club

The Black Hills Working Dog Club, newly founded in 2024, proudly announces its affiliation with DVG - LV America as one of the recently formed clubs in the Midwest KG, marking a significant milestone for working dog sport enthusiasts in the region. The newly formed club aims to provide a platform for training, education, and competition for working dogs and their handlers, emphasizing the highest standards of training and performance.

The club provides a supportive environment for training and competition, catering to the enthusiast of all levels.

BHWDC’s mission is to foster a community where members can learn, grow, and achieve their goals through regular training sessions, seminars, and workshops

To kick off things as a new club, BHWDC recently held a highly anticipated IGP dog sport seminar featuring the renowned trainer and IGP competitor Marko Koskensalo from CanEmo. This seminar, which took place over the weekend of July 29th & 30th, attracted dog and handlers teams from several states including Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, Minnesota, South Dakota, and even as far as Florida, underscoring the widespread appeal and reputation of Marko and his training philosophy.

Held at the scenic Black Hills venue, the seminar provided an ideal setting for intensive training sessions and hands-on practice. Participants appreciated the opportunity to work closely with Koskensalo, who tailored his instruction to cater to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors. The comprehensive Cameo format of teaching that Marko teaches covered advanced obedience drills, precise tracking methods, and effective protection work, ensuring that each attendee left with enhanced skills and a deeper understanding of IGP training.

Background on Marko Koskensalo

Marko Koskensalo is a renowned dog trainer and founder of Canemo Dog Training. With decades of experience in the field, Marko has earned a stellar reputation for his innovative training techniques and deep understanding of canine behavior. His seminars are sought after worldwide, providing valuable insights and practical skills to both novice and seasoned dog handlers.

The Importance of Seminars in Working Dog Sports

Seminars like the one hosted by BHWDC are vital for the growth and development of working dog sports. They offer a unique opportunity for newcomers to learn from experts, while seasoned professionals can refine their techniques and stay updated with the latest training methodologies. Such events are instrumental in building a cohesive community, where knowledge and experience are shared freely, fostering an environment of continuous improvement.

Active clubs in the working dog sport arena play a crucial role in the success of their members. By setting clear goals for the club and its members, and providing structured training plans with the assistance of the club’s training director, they ensure that everyone has the support they need to succeed. Regular seminars and workshops from expert trainers like Marko Koskensalo are part of BHWDC’s commitment to helping their members achieve their highest potential.

BHWDC’s Commitment to Excellence

BHWDC aims to host regular seminars and workshops with top-tier trainers who share the club’s philosophy and commitment to excellence. These events not only enhance the skills of individual members but also strengthen the club as a whole, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from a thriving community of working dog enthusiasts.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The Black Hills Working Dog Club extends its deepest gratitude to Marko Koskensalo for making the journey to South Dakota. His passion, expertise, and dedication have left an indelible mark on all who attended. Marko’s insights and guidance have brought attendees closer to achieving their dog training goals, and for that, we are incredibly thankful.

From all of us at BHWDC, thank you, Marko, for sharing your knowledge and passion with us. We look forward to hosting you again and continuing to learn and grow together in the world of working dog sports.