Scent Work (Nose Work) is a positive, challenging activity that allows dogs the opportunity to use their nose – their strongest natural sense – in a way that is fun and engaging. It builds and strengthens a foundation of trust and relationship between the handler and dog because in this game, the dog is the lead, the handler the support crew. It is based on the work done by quarantine dogs.
Dogs are trained to recognise specific odours and to alert their handlers when the odour is detected. Dogs may paw, bark, nose, sit, lie down, or use any other non-destructive behaviour to communicate the odour location. Searches are conducted on containers, interiors, exteriors and around vehicles.
The dog and handler work together as a team. The handler uses body language and verbal encouragement to ensure the search area is covered, directing the dog’s search only when necessary and calling alert when the dog finds odour.
Four week classes are offered at TDTC several times a year (subject to instructor availability) and include: Intro to Scent Work and Intro to Odour. Classes are usually conducted on a Wednesday night.
It is a great sport for shy dogs, reactive dogs, over-confident dogs, adolescents, puppies, older dogs – ie all dogs can do and generally love Scent Work.
Classes are small ie four to six teams. There is only ever one dog in the search area at a time. Dogs remain in the car (or a crate outside the club house) while waiting for their turn. Handlers are required to return to class to watch other searching teams as part of the learning experience. Due to the small space for the class it is not possible to allow people to watch the class before committing to the course.
Scent Work commenced as a recognised dog sport in Australia in July 2021 and has become very popular. Regular competitions are held in the ACT, including at TDTC. If you are interested in finding out more about this sport, volunteering at a trial provides a great opportunity (it is not usually possible to cater for spectators).
If you are interested in the Rules for Scent Work trialing, they can be found here: Dogs ACT Scentwork Rules
Scentwork photography by Pinnicle Photography
Prerequisites
A nose!
Dogs work individually and therefore must be able to wait in the car or be crated when not working (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Must also be a Club member and have completed at least Level 1 Obedience.
- Intro to Scent Work has no other prerequisites – this course introduces the therapeutic benefits of scent work to dogs and their owners and provides a range of activities that can be done in the pet dog home.
- Intro to Odour – must have completed Intro to Scent Work first – this course essentially replicates the Intro to Scent Work course but with the introduction of odour – Birch. It is targeted to those who may want to pursue Scent Work as a trialing sport.
Fees
- Intro to Scent Work – $55 for a four week session. Equipment – really yummy food
- Intro to Odour – $65 for a four week session (includes Birch Scent Work kit) Equipment – really yummy food
When are classes held
Scent Work classes are offered on a Wednesday night periodically throughout the year from around March to November (ie the cooler months) and depending on instructor availability.
How to join
Please email the club at tdtc@bigpond.com or put your name and contact details in the ‘Waitlist book’ in the clubhouse
Scentwork photography by Pinnicle Photography