dreamlike4paws

Discover the Joy of K9 Nose Work®

 

K9 Nose Work® is all about letting your dog’s nose lead the way. Inspired by professional detection training but designed for companion dogs, this activity gives every dog - no matter the breed, age, or background - a chance to shine through their natural scenting abilities.

 

Each class builds independence, confidence, and focus while strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Dogs learn to problem-solve, explore, and communicate through scent, while handlers discover how to read and support their dogs. It’s enriching, low-pressure, and always fun!

 

Classes follow the official NACSW™ structure, ensuring a safe, consistent, and positive experience for all participants. Each dog works one at a time while others rest between runs - creating a calm, focused, and rewarding environment, even for shy or reactive dogs.

 

(If you’d like to learn more about the philosophy behind this method, read my post “Let Your Dog’s Nose Lead the Way - The Joy of Canine Nose Work®.”)

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CLASS LEVELS​

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Introduction to K9 Nose Work® (Level 1)

Start your scent journey here!

Dogs search for food or toy rewards hidden in simple setups like boxes and small indoor areas. This builds motivation, focus, and the joy of hunting without handler direction. Handlers learn to observe, trust, and support their dogs’ independence.

Perfect for beginners, puppies, and dogs of all ages.​

 

Continuing Nose Work® (Level 2) - Expanding Environments (Coming Soon)

This next step expands your dog’s search confidence into new spaces such as larger rooms, hallways, and outdoor areas. Teams strengthen problem-solving skills, handling techniques, and odor focus while maintaining motivation and joy.

Ideal for teams who completed Level 1 and want to build confidence before introducing target odors. Strongly suggested but not a must to move to Introduction to Odor. 

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Introduction to Odor (Level 3) - Birch, Anise & Clove (Coming Soon)

Now the real scent adventure begins!

Dogs are introduced to target odors like birch, anise, and clove—paired with their familiar primary reward. Handlers learn about odor theory, hide placement, and reward timing while dogs build strong associations and clear communication at source.

Prerequisite: Completion of Level 2 or instructor approval.

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Advanced Nose Work® (Level 4) - NW1–NW3 Prep (Coming Soon)

For teams ready to take it further.

We’ll work on more complex searches, multiple hides, and elements like containers, interiors, exteriors, and vehicles. These sessions help prepare you and your dog for competition (NW1–NW3) or simply to enjoy the challenge of advanced searching together.

Open to continuing students or those training toward NACSW™ trial readiness.​

 

Strengthen Your Bond Through Scent

K9 Nose Work® is more than a class - it’s a shared experience. By allowing your dog to take the lead, you’ll discover new ways to connect, communicate, and celebrate their natural abilities. I’ll guide you through the process, helping both of you gain confidence, teamwork, and joy with every search.