What is K9 Nose Work?

K9 Nose Work is a great activity for your dog to have fun, build confidence, and burn a lot of mental and physical energy. You will learn to encourage your dog’s amazing sense of smell and a natural desire to hunt. This sport for dogs and their owners was created and sanctioned by the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW).

How does it work?

Dogs have amazing natural scenting abilities. K9 nose work uses their desire to hunt and their love of toys, food and exercise. Nose work is ideal for beginners since the sport can be adjusted to varying levels of complexity and skill.

If you chose to partake in sanctioned competitions, your dog will be on the search for a series of items. Your dog will learn to search interiors, exteriors, containers, and vehicles.  While engaging in nose work, they will test themselves to search and target odors emitting from food, toys, and other sources.

Who can participate in nose work?

Your dog does not have to be a trained K9 police dog or service dog to enjoy the excitement of scent trailing. Any breed of dog can participate. Nose work is great for dogs that need a lot of mental and physical stimulation but have a hard time in classes with other dogs. They will have an opportunity to build confidence in new environments, and working around obstacles without the stress of interactions with other dogs.

This class is great for newly adopted dogs and helps them become more confident in new environments. It is helpful if the dog already has a strong desire to play with toys, but it is not required.

Benefits of K9 Nose Work

Through K9 nose work, your dog has much to gain. Some benefits include:

  • Stimulating your dog’s natural senses by promoting sharper skills
  • This activity can be done indoors
  • Increased sense of trust and companionship between the dog and handler
  • Builds confidence and character in dogs who are more aloof
  • Appeals to competitive dogs to please their need for challenge
  • No prior scent or obedience training is required for participation.

The Nose Work class can be repeated many times as the level of difficulty will be adjusted as the dog gains better skills.

Get Started with K9 Nose Work

Like fetch, frisbee, or any other exciting game, your dog will enjoy the engagement nose work provides. Here at our facility, we have trained professionals who can show you and your dog the ropes. Once you get the hang of it, you can participate in a wonderful bonding experience with your pet.

Reach out to us so you and your best friend can schedule a playdate! Enroll in one of our fun, interactive classes in Houston, TX today!