Nose Work Program
Instinct‑driven scent work that builds confidence, independence, and purposeful hunting.
K9 Nose Work® is a scent‑detection sport that teaches dogs to use their natural hunting instincts in a structured, confidence‑building way. Through K9NW methodology, dogs learn to search independently, solve problems, and work with purpose. The sport is accessible to every dog—any age, breed, or ability—because it begins with simple, success‑based searches and gradually builds skill, focus, and resilience. At its core, Nose Work empowers the dog and strengthens the teamwork between dog and handler.
Nose Work Classes
All structured Nose Work classes follow the same core format, so you always know what to expect.
Meets once a week for six consecutive weeks
Approx. 1.5 hours (may vary slightly based on class size)
6–8 dog/handler teams per class
Dogs work one at a time in a controlled, low‑stress environment
Dogs rest comfortably between turns
Individual coaching for each team
Ideal for sensitive, shy, or reactive dogs
$145 per 6‑week session
Continuing Nose Work runs on a flexible drop‑in schedule with advance session sign‑ups.
Class Lineup
Choose the level that fits your team. Prerequisites are listed so you know exactly where to begin.
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Independent Hunting and Search Confidence
Dogs begin by hunting for high-value rewards (food or toys) in thoughtfully designed environments. This foundational class builds self-directed hunting, motivation, and comfort in new spaces. Handlers practice leash handling, change‑of‑behavior observation, and supporting the dog’s hunt without influencing the search.
Prerequisite: None
Upcoming Classes
Mondays • Sept 14–Oct 19 • 6:00 PM
Thursdays • Sept 17–Oct 22 • 9:30 AM
Choose your preferred class inside the registration form.
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Search Development and Handler Observation
Teams expand their foundation through varied search areas and introductory hide placements, including simple elevated and inaccessible puzzles. Dogs build confidence across new environments while handlers refine movement and learn to read subtle changes in search behavior.
Prerequisite: Intro to K9 Nose Work®
Upcoming Classes
Fall TBD
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Target Odors and Scent Movement
Teams begin working with target odor using paired (odor + reward together) and known hides to build odor value, confidence, and independent hunting. Dogs gain early experience following odor in simple, success‑based searches, while handlers refine observation of odor‑driven behavior and supporting independence at source.
Prerequisite: Nose Work Foundation
Upcoming Classes
Fall TBD
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ORT Readiness and Clear Communication
Teams strengthen target‑odor recognition through structured container exercises, threshold setups, and precise reward timing. As dogs transition to searching for target odor alone, blind container searches modeled on ORT expectations are added gradually—all while preserving independent hunting and clear source communication.
Prerequisite: Intro to Odor
Upcoming Classes
Fall TBD
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Source Commitment and Strategic Execution
This class focuses on blind hides across multiple search elements (Container, Interior, Exterior, Vehicle). Handlers learn to trust the dog’s process; reading body language, supporting thorough coverage, tracking time, and making confident finish calls while the dog leads the hunt.
Prerequisite: Odor Mechanics or instructor approval
Upcoming Classes
Winter TBD
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Intricate Hides and Scent Dynamics
Designed for experienced teams working through converging odor, elevated and inaccessible hides, larger areas, and multi-source puzzles. Searches emphasize thoughtful hide placement, persistence, and adaptable handling for both trial and enrichment goals.
Prerequisite: Advanced Teamwork or instructor approval
Upcoming Classes
Winter TBD
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Advanced Puzzles and Search Stamina
Ongoing training combines multiple search elements, complex scent puzzles, and trial-style scenarios. Teams build endurance, consistency, resilience, and the ability to work through sophisticated searches while preserving the dog's independence and joy of the hunt.
For: Experienced odor teams (NW2/NW3 skill level; competition not required)
Drop‑In Sessions — Coming Soon!
Reactive Dogs Welcome
Nose Work is one of the safest sports for reactive, shy, or easily aroused dogs.
Dogs work individually, with controlled entry/exit and instructor‑managed movement.
This structure supports confidence, independence, and successful learning for all dogs.
Please note any behavioral considerations on your registration form so we can support your team appropriately.
Private Nose Work Training
If your dog needs one‑on‑one support or you prefer individualized coaching, private Nose Work sessions are available.
We tailor each session to your dog’s skill level, confidence, and search style.