What is Nose Work Training/Scent Dog Training?
Nose Work Training for dogs is a relatively new dog activity and sport that is gaining more and more popularity. It is based on search and rescue and tracking sports but geared to the general public and pet dogs rather than working dogs. Any dog can do Scent Dog Training because it uses the dog's most powerful sense, smell. You do not have to want to compete in AKC Scent Work or NACSW Nose Work to enjoy it at home. Nosework training classes do not take a lot of equipment and can be enjoyed all year around. It helps build confidence in shy and fearful dogs and is both fun for the dog and the owner.
Benefits of NoseWork Training/Scent Dog Training
Nose Work Classes for dogs offers a wide range of benefits that contribute to their overall well-being and enrichment. Here are some key advantages:
1. Mental Stimulation: Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell. Nosework engages their minds by tapping into their natural scent-tracking instincts. This mental challenge helps prevent boredom and can be especially beneficial for breeds with high intelligence.
2. Reduced Anxiety: Engaging in nosework tasks can help alleviate anxiety and restlessness. It provides an outlet for your dog's energy while giving them a constructive way to focus their attention.
3. Bonding: Nosework activities involve teamwork between you and your dog. As your dog learns to follow scent trails or locate hidden objects, your bond deepens through shared experiences and communication.
4. Confidence Building: Successfully finding hidden scents or objects boosts your dog's confidence. The positive reinforcement they receive during training builds their self-assurance and can have a positive impact on their overall behavior.
5. Physical Exercise: While nosework is mentally demanding, it can also involve physical movement. Dogs may navigate different areas or terrains during scent searches, providing a low-impact form of exercise.
6. Channeling Energy: Dogs with excess energy can benefit from Scent Work as it redirects their focus into a productive and stimulating activity. This can help prevent destructive behavior resulting from boredom.
7. Enrichment: K9 Nosework Training offers enrichment by allowing dogs to engage their senses in a unique way. This sensory exploration contributes to a more fulfilling and well-rounded life for your furry friend.
8. Suitable for All Ages: Nose Work Classes are adaptable to different ages and physical abilities. It's a great activity for puppies to seniors, ensuring mental engagement throughout their lives.
9. Distraction Training: Teaching your dog to concentrate on scent work can aid in managing behavioral issues like reactivity or nervousness. Canine Nosework can redirect their attention and provide a positive outlet.
10. Fun and Enjoyment: Dogs naturally enjoy using their noses, and nosework training taps into this instinct. It's a fun and exciting activity for them, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Whether your goal is to provide mental stimulation, enhance your bond, or alleviate behavioral challenges, scent work training can make a remarkable difference in your dog's life. It's a rewarding journey that offers benefits for both you and your canine companion.
The scent work instructor, Steve Bettcher is an IACP Certified Dog Trainer and Canine NoseWork and AKC Scent Work Training Instructor and an AKC Scent Work Judge. He has been doing dog training in Oakland and San Leandro for over 20 years and has been doing Scent Work training for dogs for over 10 years. He has also been competing in NACSW K9 Nose Work® and AKC Scent Work Trials and training K9 Scent Work since 2012. His in person and dog training online courses will lay a foundation for future competition if you so choose. Steve has earned the following AKC Scent Work, NACSW K9 Nose Work® and SDS Nosework titles with his Beagle Buddy:
NACSW K9 Nose Work® Titles; NW1, NW2, NW3, NW3-C, NW3-V, NW3-E, NW3-I, NW3 Elite, ELT-1, ELT-2, ELT-3, ELT-CH, LC1, LC2, L1I, L2I, L1V.
AKC Scent Work Titles: SWN, SBN, SCN, SIN, SEN, SIA, SCA, SEA, SBA, SWA, SBE, SCE, SIE, SEE, SWE. SIM, SEM, SCM, SBM and SWM
SDS Nosework Titles: Excellent
Bobby, Havanese:
NACSW K9 Nose Work® Titles: ORT, NW1
AKC Scent Work Titles: SWN, SBN, SCN, SIN, SEN, SBA, SCA, SIA, SEA, SWA, SCE, SIE
Buddy hauls in a ton of ribbons at AKC Scent Work Trial in San Jose, CA.
NoseWork Training Classes for Dogs
Introduction to Scent Dog Training Alert Indication
Scent Dog Training Odor Discrimination
Scent Dog Training Odor Discrimination
The first thing we teach in nose work training for dogs is the "Alert Indicator" before we begin searching. This is backwards for many nose work training methods which teach the Search first. By the use of an operant chamber (scent box or scent tube) we condition the dog to Indicate with a sit or down. Once the Scent Work "Alert Indicato
The first thing we teach in nose work training for dogs is the "Alert Indicator" before we begin searching. This is backwards for many nose work training methods which teach the Search first. By the use of an operant chamber (scent box or scent tube) we condition the dog to Indicate with a sit or down. Once the Scent Work "Alert Indicator" is bomb proof we move to Odor Discrimination. Steve's scent training for dogs cover both ACK Scent Work and NACSW K9 NoseWork®
Scent Dog Training Odor Discrimination
Scent Dog Training Odor Discrimination
Scent Dog Training Odor Discrimination
Once the dog is proofed on a solid "Indicator" such as a down or sit we introduce odor discrimination in the nosework training. We introduce the dog to a cocktail of AKC Scent Work scents, Birch, Anise, Clove and Cypress. Once the dog can correctly identify the correct scent box or tube reliably we then introduce individual nosework o
Once the dog is proofed on a solid "Indicator" such as a down or sit we introduce odor discrimination in the nosework training. We introduce the dog to a cocktail of AKC Scent Work scents, Birch, Anise, Clove and Cypress. Once the dog can correctly identify the correct scent box or tube reliably we then introduce individual nosework odors and start expanding the number of objects to be searched. Scent training for dogs are conducted in San Leandro, CA and Online nose work training for dogs are taught on Zoom.
Nose Work Searching
Handler Discrimination Class
Handler Discrimination Class
K9 Nose work Searching goes beyond the conditioning lab but does not happen until a reliable "Alert Indicator" has been conditioned, that is the dog can reliably identify the correct sent box from multiple choices and work independently from the handler. Once these pieces are in place we can begin real world K9 Nosework searches such as Exteriors, Vehicles, Interiors and Containers.
Handler Discrimination Class
Handler Discrimination Class
Handler Discrimination Class
Handler Discrimination is an AKC Scent Work Division where the dog must find the handler's scent.
New Novice HD Class
Starting
Wednesday March 12, 2025
at 7 PM
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Private Online Scent Work Lessons
Now Available