Nosework Classes

Why Nosework?

Have you ever seen search and rescue or drug/bomb sniffing canines work and been in awe of their skill at following and detecting odor?

Now your dog can also experience the excitement of using their keen, natural, scenting abilities while developing a greater bond working with you. Whether you choose to participate in this rewarding activity with your dog for fun or want to trial and earn titles, we have a class for you!

Nosework 1

Nosework 1 is an introductory class. This class is intended for dogs that have not been introduced to any of the primary target odors (birch, anise, and clove). ANY dog can play – large, small, old, or young. The skills taught will provide you hours of fun with you and your dog.

Nosework exercises can be conducted in your home, basement, garage, backyard, at the local park, or wherever you and your dog decide to play indoors or out!

Nosework 1 will prepare teams to participate in both American Kennel Club (AKC) Scent work, United Kennel Club (UKC) Nosework, or Canine Performance Events (CPE) Canine Scent Sport events.

A black and white dog sitting on a plastic crate on a grassy field during an outdoor event, connected to a leash held by a person sitting on a chair nearby.
A dog participating in a nose work training exercise outdoors on a grassy field, sniffing at containers with food inside, while a person sits nearby on a chair.

Advanced Nosework Classes

For dogs that completed Nosework 1 and Nosework 2 classes, many other classes are offered throughout the year. A wide variety of classes are offered that provide challenges for the intermediate and advanced level dogs including high and low, inaccessible hides, advanced container, buried (water and sand), distractions, and “out in the community” type searches and more. Both dogs and owners that are competing in trials or enjoying this for pure fun and enrichment will benefit from these classes.

Nosework 2

Nosework 2 is a continuation of the Nosework 1 class. It is for dogs who have been introduced to the 3 primary target odors. This course is also a good place to start again if your dog has taken an extended break from Nosework and you want to refresh their skills. Dogs will continue to build

skills in Nosework 2 through different searches (interior, exterior, containers, and vehicles). Using positive reinforcement methods based on detection and search and rescue dog training, these classes will give you a strong foundation in the sport of Nosework.

Warning! Human and canine addiction to Nosework is highly possible even at this level.

Check the calendar for class dates and times.

A woman in a blue shirt and black pants training a black and white dog in an outdoor grassy area with yellow cones.
A woman in a blue shirt is training her black and white Australian Shepherd dog outdoors in a grassy park, with small obstacles and cones set up for a dog agility exercise.
A black and white dog on a leash standing inside a cafe or restaurant near a bar stool and a Jack Daniel's sign.
A woman in a blue shirt is training a black and white springer spaniel dog outdoors on a grassy area. The dog is sitting inside a plastic container, looking up at the woman, who appears to be giving commands. There are small orange and yellow cones and other training equipment nearby.
A brown dog with curly fur, wearing a harness, is exploring a sensory activity with transparent water containers on a carpeted floor.

For More Information on Nosework Classes

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