Frequently Asked Questions

What is nosework/scentwork/scent detection?

Nosework, also commonly referred to as scentwork or scent detection, is a fun and engaging activity that taps into a dog's remarkable sense of smell. In nosework training, dogs learn to use their noses to locate specific scents, often hidden in interesting environments.

Through positive reinforcement techniques, dogs are taught to identify and indicate the presence of target odors by alerting their handlers through a trained indication behaviour (for example by freezing with their nose touching the odour).

Nosework provides mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a unique way for dogs to engage with their environment, and has countless benefits for both dog and handler.

Can any dog be trained in nosework?

Yes! Scent work is a great activity for all dogs, no matter the breed, size, age, or physical ability. In fact, it is a particularly good activity for dogs that may be unable to participate in other dog sports due to injury or retirement. Don't underestimate small dogs and flat faced dogs either!

Nosework is also a particularly good activity for reactive dogs, as dogs are worked individually without ever needing to see or interact with other dogs. If your dog is reactive to other dogs or people, please do let us know in your booking form though so that we can ensure the best experience for you and your dog.

What odours are the dogs trained to search for?

We use Napier Gun Oil as our standard target scent for our scentwork training sessions, as this is the most common competition odour. We are also able to provide training with cloves or Kong, or really any other legal odour as long as we can source and store it safely (get in touch if you have something specific in mind).

Can I take part with an XL Bully or other banned breed?

Yes, we are fully insured to work with exempt XL Bully dogs, provided that they have their exemption certificate and follow all the relevant legal restrictions. However, not all of the venues we use are insured for this, so please get in touch prior to booking an event to double check whether the particular venue is suitable. For any group classes, your dog will be required to remain on lead and muzzled, however for one-to-one coaching this requirement is not necessary. Please get in touch and I will be happy to answer and questions and work out a way that you and your dog can still take part in the wonderful world of nosework.

Can you run a private sessions for my group?

Yes, if you have a group of friends with dogs that all want to take part in training together as a group, please just get in touch and we can organise a private session for you all to take part together.

What is the Rescue Scenter Fund?

Donating to the Rescue Scenter Fund allows us to provide free enrichment and scentwork training sessions to local shelter dogs waiting for their forever homes. These sessions are not only a great way to reduce stress and improve welfare for these dogs, but they also allow them to be show their best side to a wider audience increasing the chances that they will be adopted. All regular enrichment session bookings have the option to add on £5 as a donation to the fund, additionally the full price of a session or a package can be donated through the link here: Donate a Session

If you are a local rescue shelter that would like to benefit from the fund, please contact us!

What is the difference between enrichment sessions and scentwork training sessions?

Enrichment sessions provide your dog with the freedom to sniff, explore, and discover new scents at their own pace. These sessions are all about allowing your dog to indulge their natural curiosity—without any formal training. Your dog will search for treats and enjoy a variety of interesting scents and sensory items, while you simply sit back and enjoy watching them thrive in their element. [Click here for more details on our enrichment sessions.]

Scentwork training, on the other hand, is a structured lesson where you and your dog work as a team to teach your dog how to recognize and search for a specific odor, just like a professional detection dog! This training sharpens their focus and can improve their problem solving skills. [See below for more information or click here to explore our scentwork training services.]