Beginner Nosework Class

Foundational scentwork classes introduce dogs and handlers to the foundations of scentwork (also called nosework). Dogs learn to search for hidden scent through structured search exercises that develop searching skills, independence, problem solving, and a clear indication behavior.

Training begins with simple games and progresses to basic hides with target odor (birch oil) while handlers learn how to read their dog’s search behavior and support the search effectively.

Scentwork is an accessible activity for dogs of any breed or age and provides excellent mental enrichment.

What Dogs Learn

• building search motivation

• a clear “alert” behavior

• odor recognition

Who This Class Is For

• dogs new to scentwork or nosework

• handlers interested in learning the sport

• dogs needing mental enrichment or a “job”

No prior scentwork or training experience is required.

Class Details

Location: Los Gatos, CA
Class length: 5 weeks
Schedule: Sundays beginning April 19 at 10:30 a.m.

• Dogs should be comfortable crated and/or secured in the car when waiting their turn

• Back-clip harness with 6 to 12 foot leash recommended

• Dogs must be able to work calmly around other dogs without barking, growling, or lunging.

Class Structure

Dogs work one at a time during searches while the other teams wait their turn. This allows each dog to focus on the search and ensures a calm training environment.

Class sizes are kept small so that each team receives individualized guidance.