Dogs and people searching together
Nosework is a fun search-and-scenting activity for virtually all dogs and people. It was inspired by working detection dogs.
The dog learns to detect a specific odor and identify its source, similar to K9 detection dogs who serve with the police and customs authorities.
When the dog locates the source of the odor, the dog signals with a specific behavior and is rewarded for it.
There are four different types of searches: searching containers, searching indoors, searching exteriors, and searching vehicles.
Nosework can be trained almost anywhere. All dogs can participate in nosework, no matter what their age or physical situation.
Each search has the potential to be dramatically different by changing the location of the odor source. The search is a mental challenge for dog and handler alike.
Nosework allow us a glimpse into our dog's worldview
With nosework, we give the dog the freedom to express and hone his natural talent: the hunting instinct. The dog learns how to solve problems independently. While building detection skills, the dog improves his self-confidence, which enables him to successfully cope with various challenges.
During training, the emphasis will be on creating positive learning experiences for the dog that are adjusted to the dog’s independent problem-solving skills and needs.
By being exposed to numerous different search scenarios, the dog develops its hunting skills. The handler sharpens their observational abilities of their dog’s body language and learns how to behave during the scent search.
What are the benefits of nosework?
- Nosework allow your dog to release mental and physical energy.
- Nosework builds the dog’s self-confidence by allowing the dog to solve problems independently and tackle new challenges successfully.
- Nosework is an activity suitable for dogs with different needs and abilities:
- Sensitive dogs who are afraid of environmental stimuli will learn to concentrate on the search instead of the environment.
- Young and impulsive dogs learn to focus.
- The search area can be adjusted to be compatible for the needs of senior or disabled dogs.
- Nosework strengthens the bond between dog and handler. The human learns to observe, understand, and trust a dog’s independent and incredible ability to instantly detect a specific odor.
- Nosework can take place anywhere dogs are allowed.
- Nosework requires no prior training.
K9 Nosework
There are various nosework organizations globally that conduct competitions at different levels. In a competition, the handler does not know where the scent is located and has to rely on his dog, who must indicate the location of the scent within a limited time.
K9 Nosework was developed in 2006 by Ron Gaunt, Amy Herot and Jill Marie O’Brien to bring the concept of detection-dog style training to dog lovers and their companion dogs. An enthusiastic community was soon created and the desire to have enjoyable competitions in this new activity grew. The NACSW (The National Association of Canine Scent Work) was founded to ensure the highest standard of excellence and structure for the competitors in this new sport.
In 2023, I received my CNWI (Certified Nosework Instructor) certification from the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW).
In nosework, the dog’s welfare is top priority
The purpose of nosework is to have fun with your dog!!!
In nosework, the dog’s well-being always takes precedence over all other considerations. We make sure the dog’s physical and emotional needs are taken into account. We observe the dog carefully and make sure the activity is enjoyable for both dog and us.
In nosework, the dog is allowed to learn in comfortable conditions using his natural abilities, sense of smell and hunting instinct. Our goal is to let our dog feel “happy go lucky”!!!
