AKC Scent Work
AKC Scent Work
The sport of Scent Work is based on the work of professional detection dogs (such as drug dogs), employed by humans to detect a wide variety of scents and substances. In AKC Scent Work, dogs search for cotton swabs saturated with the essential oils of Birch, Anise, Clove, and Cypress. The cotton swabs are hidden out of sight in a pre-determined search area, and the dog has to find them. Teamwork is necessary: when the dog finds the scent, he has to communicate the find to the handler, who calls it out to the judge.
Scent Work "Fun"damentals
Prerequisites: Completion of our Intermediate Obedience class, or CGC title, or with instructor approval.
This is the class for you if you are brand new to the sport of Scent Work!
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We've designed this class to introduce dogs and their owners to the exciting world of scent detection. Throughout this course, participants will learn the "fun"damentals of scent work training as recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). From understanding the behavior of odor to teaching dogs how to effectively search for specific odors, this class offers a fun and rewarding experience for both canine companions and their handlers. Through a series of interactive exercises and games, dogs will develop their natural scenting abilities while owners learn essential handling techniques and scent work principles. Whether you're looking to engage your dog's mind, build confidence, or prepare for competitive events, this class provides a solid foundation for further exploration into the fascinating realm of scent work.
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Day & Time: Wednesdays 6:30 - 7:30pm
Dates: June 12 - July 17
Class length: 6 weeks
Minimum of 5 dogs, maximum of 8
Intro to Handler Discrimination
Novice Edition
Prerequisites: Completion of our Intermediate Obedience class, or CGC title, or with instructor approval.
The Handler Discrimination Division of AKC Scent Work uses the target scent of the handler, rather than the odor of an essential oil.
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The handler is required to provide the scented article for Handler Discrimination Classes. For the Novice class, the required scented article is a cotton glove or cotton sock.
In AKC novice HD, the handler-scented item is placed in a cardboard box. The dog must discriminate between which of ten identical boxes, and indicate which box holds the article. (One of the other boxes holds an article scented by the judge, the other eight are empty).
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This class will help get teams ready to compete at the Novice Level.
Day & Time: Wednesdays 7:45 - 8:45pm
Dates: June 12 - July 17
Class length: 6 weeks
Minimum of 5 dogs, maximum of 8
Level 1 Scent Work
Novice Edition
Prerequisites: Completion of our Scent Work "Fun"damentals class or with instructor approval. Dog's should be alerting on at least 1 of the following odors (Birch or Anise)
This class is designed to deepen your dog's understanding and proficiency in scent detection.
In this course, participants will build upon the foundational skills acquired in our Scent Work "Fun"damentals class, further honing their canine partner's scenting abilities and refining their own handling techniques.
Dogs will learn to discriminate between multiple odors and navigate more complex search environments. Handlers will refine their observational skills and learn strategies for effectively guiding their dogs through scent detection tasks. Whether you're pursuing competitive goals or simply seeking to enhance your bond with your canine companion.
Join us as we continue to unlock the incredible potential of your dog's nose!
Class length: 6 weeks
Minimum of 5 dogs, maximum of 8
Level 2 Scent Work
Advanced/ExcellentEdition
Prerequisites: Completion of our Level 1 Scent Work class or with instructor approval. Dog's should be alerting on two of the following odors (Birch, Anise and/or Clove)
This class is for teams who have completed our Level 1 Scent Work class and are working to elevate their skills in scent detection. In this class, dogs and handlers will further refine their abilities to work at the Advanced & Excellent Level by introducing new challenges and expanding their scenting repertoire. Level 2 Scent Work provides a supportive environment for continued growth and achievement as teams compete at the higher levels of AKC Scent Work.
Class length: 6 weeks
Minimum of 5 dogs, maximum of 8
Scent-sational Tours
Sniffing Around Town
Prerequisites: Completion of our Scent Work "Fun"damentals class or with instructor approval. Dog's should be alerting on at least 1 of the following odors (Birch or Anise)
This class will be on the move!
Each week, we will meet in a different location to help our canine partners become confident in searching in different environments and with different distractions. Teams will continue to hone essential scent work techniques, strengthen their bond, and sharpen their observational skills
Class length: 6 weeks
Minimum of 5 dogs, maximum of 8