Introduction to K9 Nose Work®
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The K9 Nose Work® class concept and sport was created to provide an opportunity for companion and sport dogs to have an outlet for their natural hunting and scenting abilities and was inspired by the model of working detection dogs. The terms nose work, fun nose work, scent work, and search work are all commonly used references to describe any activity where the dog is using its nose to locate a target scent or odor. Tracking, one of the most widely known scenting disciplines is another great outlet for nose work, but often people are limited by access to tracking areas. K9 Nose Work can be done anywhere, anytime; thus a new sport for dogs living in any setting became available. |
K9 Nose Work classes use many of the foundational techniques of detection but they were not developed or intended as a foundation program for any kind of professional detection work. The purpose of a K9 Nose Work class is to engage the dog in the game of nose work and to teach handlers how to read their dogs and build a team relationship, all while having fun. Nose Work is a great skill to build the dog’s confidence, reduce environmental sensitivity and provide mental and physical exercise through teamwork with the handler. Ultimately, what we are building in the dog is:
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• A desire to search for something we want them to find
• A willingness to search for it when we want them to • An ability to communicate to us that they have found it, knowing that there is a great reward at the end of that search The focus of the classes should always be, first and foremost, fun for the dog and fun for the handler. K9 Nose Work classes have been constructed in a way that opens the activity to all dogs and handlers at all levels, from top-level sport competitor to recent shelter rescue. For those who want to pursue a more intensive side of Nose Work, the NACSW offers titling trials in competitive K9 Nose Work. This Intro class presents the concept of the game, builds handler observation skills and timing, and gets the dogs focused. Week One is primarily an evaluation class and teaches the overall game. The remaining weeks concentrate on building foundation skills to help the handler read the dog and build the dog's intensity for the hunting game. |
Nose Work Class testimonial from Joye Blanscett K9 Nose Work is the dog sport I recommend to every owner of a reactive, anxious or unconfident dog. It has given my dog Ivan (and me) an amazing way to tap into and use his instinctual desire to hunt. Even though I've seen it numerous times since we started nose work a year and a half ago, I continue to marvel at how when he is in that search mode, his anxiety and fears are pushed aside as if he were a "normal" non-reactive dog. The best part is that the confidence and security he experiences during his search carries over to when he's not searching so that he can quickly become comfortable in environments and with people where years of attempts at operative & classical conditioning has showed very slow progress. My only regret is not finding C&C PALS, Carole and Nose Work earlier. 
Ivan, Vizsla
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Only instructors designated as Certified or Associate Nose Work Instructors (CNWI or ANWI) are recognized and supported by the NACSW, the sanctioning body for the support of K9 Nose Work.
There is NO prerequisite for your dog for this class, other than that your dog must be able to be confined when not working in class (such as being in a crate or in your car). For the Handler: prior to class, in addition to filling out the Registration form (see Registration button above) you must read, fill out and return the Pre-Class Questionnaire (click here to complete questionnaire). You must also read the Class Tools (click here to read) to know what to bring to the first week of class and read the Class Structure and Rules (click here to read) prior to class.
Class is 5 weeks (6.25 hrs.), one and 1/4 hours/week. Class size is limited to 6 dogs. Rate is $240.00
Additional custom classes may be available at the discretion of the instructor. Also, unique needs can be addressed. If your needs are not met by any of the classes or consultations listed, please call 703.876.0284 to discuss your specific requirements. Prices effective March 1, 2022, and are subject to change.
