Introduction to K9 Nose Work:
COURSE DETAILS
In this course, we will be covering the foundations of Scent Work as a sport or activity. Taught by a Certified Nose Work Instructor, this class will follow the K9 Nose Work training method. Your dog will learn the basics of hunting for primary (food) in a fun, safe environment. You will learn how to get started, what foundation skills you will need to succeed in the sport, and ways to ensure the game is fun for your dog. Throughout this 6- week course, we will be utilizing the K9 Nose Work® training methodology, using treats to introduce the dog to the concept of the game—we will not be using odour in this course. Using this approach works for dogs and handlers alike, helping to ensure the activity remains fun and engaging for the dog while the handler develops observational skills and strategies to support the dog’s learning. Not only will this ensure a foundation to help your dog succeed in playing the game with
you, it will set you both up for success when your dog is ready to progress to searching for odour (such as Wintergreen, Pine or Thyme essential oils) in later courses.
Here are the types of topics that will be covered each week:
• Getting Started in Scent Work using boxes and primary reward (food)
• Assessing and Building Confidence
• Broadening the Search
• Introducing Elevated Hides
• Introducing Interior Searches
• Putting It All Together
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
• your happy, hungry dog (you might decide to feed your dog after class instead of before)
• collar (flat or martingale) or harness (back-clip) (optional)
• leash (6′-8′)
• long line (10′-15′)
• treats (high-value and small—cheese, meat cubes, dried fish or liver)
• crate or area dog can wait between searches—if your dog is not used to waiting quietly in a crate, then you might need to leave your dog in the car between searches, as only one dog will be out at a time
• cardboard boxes (minimum of 10 boxes of various sizes) (for home practice—you can check for these at Dollar Tree or other stores