Service Description

K9 Nose Work® is a simple, rewarding activity that taps into your dog’s natural hunting instinct. It helps build focus, confidence, and problem-solving skills while giving your dog a meaningful job to do - right at home or anywhere you go. This foundational course follows the official NACSW™ structure and emphasizes dog-driven, self-rewarding searches. Each dog works individually while others rest between runs, ensuring a calm and focused environment that supports both confident and sensitive dogs. The approach encourages independence, trust, and clear communication between dog and handler. ⸻ COURSE FORMAT Before the first in-person class, participants will receive access to a required about 30min virtual orientation recording. This recording introduces the foundations of K9 Nose Work®, explains how to set up successful practice sessions at home, and prepares you and your dog for the first search experience. The course then continues with six in-person sessions (90 minutes each), where teams progress at their own pace through a variety of search challenges and environments. ⸻ WHAT YOU AND YOUR DOG WILL LEARN Throughout this course, you and your dog will: * Build enthusiasm and confidence for searching * Develop independent problem-solving skills * Learn how to read your dog’s changes of behavior while working scent * Progress from simple box searches to more complex search areas * Introduce a variety of objects, surfaces, and environmental challenges * Strengthen teamwork, observation skills, and handling techniques * Practice blind searches that build trust in your dog’s abilities * Gain the skills and confidence needed to continue into Intro to Odor This course is designed to meet each team where they are, creating a fun and supportive learning environment for both confident and sensitive dogs. ⸻ HOME PRACTICE After each session, you’ll receive a short homework email. These activities reinforce skills, build consistency, and help your dog stay engaged between classes. Regular practice is essential for progressing in this program. ⸻ WHY JOIN • Builds confidence, focus, and problem-solving through scenting • Strengthens teamwork and trust between you and your dog • Offers mental enrichment for all ages and temperaments • Conducted in a safe, supportive, and low-pressure setting • Small group class setting.