Level 1: Intro to Nosework ​

Requirements: Dog must be comfortable and quiet in a crate while waiting their turn
Prerequisites: Advanced Puppy I or higher class, must walk under control on a leash
Session Length: 7 weeks
Cost: $160 ($140 with early registration discount)
Content: This class is for people who are curious about the sport and is the first step in your Nose Work adventure. Now is the time your dog will be introduced to the “hunt” game using natural instincts and drive to search for treats in their environment. Dogs learn to search independently while developing problem solving skills. In addition, handlers begin learning how to recognize and interpret their individual dog’s body language during and at the conclusion of the search. Food is the target in this introductory class.
Materials Needed: Non-restrictive harness, buckle or martingale collar, 6 to 10 foot leash (no chain leashes), lots of high-value treats.
To Enroll: please go to “How to Enroll in a Class”
​Please note: Because of the high demand for these courses and the importance of continual skill building, missing more than 2 classes in a 7 week session is strongly advised against. Please ensure that your shedule allows you to attend all classes. You must attend the first class. Class size is limited to 6 canines. Puppies 9 month and older are welcome, however they should have graduated from AKC’s STAR Puppy course. Younger puppies may be allowed pending instructor approval. Crating during class is required, so training your dog to be calm and quiet in the crate is necessary. ​

Level 2: Intro to Nosework 

Requirements: Dog must be comfortable and quiet in a crate while waiting their turn
Prerequisites: Level 1: Intro to Nosework
Session Length: 7 weeks
Cost: $160 ($140 with early registration discount)
Content: Dogs will continue to learn the “hunt” game using natural instincts and drive to search for treats in their environment. Dogs learn to search independently while developing problem solving skills. In addition, handlers expand their handling skills and further  learn how to recognize and interpret their individual dog’s body language during and at the conclusion of the search. Food is still the target in this introductory class.
Materials Needed: Non-restrictive harness, buckle or martingale collar, 6 to 10 foot leash (no chain leashes), lots of high-value treats.
To Enroll: please go to “How to Enroll in a Class”
​Please note: Because of the high demand for these courses and the importance of continual skill building, missing more than 2 classes in a 7 week session is strongly advised agaisnt. Please ensure that your shedule allows you to attend all classes. You must attend the first class. Class size is limited to 6 canines. 

Level 3: Intro to Odor 

Requirements: Dog must be comfortable and quiet in a crate while waiting their turn
Prerequisites: Level 1 & Level 2: Intro to Nose Work
Session Length: 7 weeks
Cost: $160 ($140 with early registration discount)
Content: This class is a continuation of the Introduction to Nose Work classes. It is at this time the dog is first introduced to the “odors” which are used in competition. Skills learned by the dog/handler team in the first two classes will be built upon to increase dedication to the search, independent drive, accuracy, and odor obedience
Materials Needed: Non-restrictive harness, buckle or martingale collar, 6 to 10 foot leash (no chain leashes), lots of high-value treats.
To Enroll: please go to “How to Enroll in a Class”
​Please note: Because of the high demand for these courses and the importance of continual skill building, missing more than 2 classes in a 7 week session is strongly advised agaisnt. Please ensure that your shedule allows you to attend all classes. You must attend the first class. Class size is limited to 6 canines​

 Level 4: Continuing Nosework Skills ​

Requirements: Dog must be comfortable and quiet in a crate while waiting their turn and "on odor"
Prerequisites: Level 3: Intro to Odor
Session Length: 7 weeks
Cost: $160 ($140 with early registration discount)
Content: This class is a continuation of the Introduction to Nose Work and Introduction to Odor classes.You and your dog will continue to build skills geared toward competetion, to prepare you for any avenue you take within the sport.
Materials Needed: Non-restrictive harness, buckle or martingale collar, 6 to 10 foot leash (no chain leashes), lots of high-value treats.
To Enroll: please go to “How to Enroll in a Class”

Learn more about Nose work

​Nose Work is a sport based on the training of real life detection dogs. In this sport, you and your dog work as a team to find hidden odors (Birch, Anise and Clove oils) in containers, building interiors, outdoor areas, and on vehicles. Unlike many canine sports, in Nose Work the dog leads the dance and you follow.

All dogs, mixed or pure-bred, can do this. Big dogs, small dogs, deaf dogs, dogs with only three legs, dogs in wheelchairs have all titled in this sport. Nose Work builds the dog’s self-confidence and problem-solving ability, but the most important factor determining your dog’s success will be how much enthusiasm and dedication YOU show
Many shy or environmentally sensitive dogs blossom in this sport as they learn to take charge and work independently of the handler. Active, driven, self-confident dogs find this a great outlet for their energy. You can practice this sport anywhere, so you can amuse your dog on those long rainy days when they’re stuck in the house. There is no dog-on-dog interaction in National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) nose work, and teams work one at a time. Canines must be crated while not working. Our club cannot accommodate dog-aggressive or human-aggressive dogs. If there has been a minor incident, please reach out to the instructor to discuss the details and determine if your dog can particiate or not.