Next Session starts: October 4th, 2026
(If interested, please fill out the Interest Application at the bottom of this page. We will contact you upon received questionnaire)
NACSW K9 Nose work
(National Association of Canine Scentwork)
Is your dog driving you crazy at home?
K9 Nose work is a great activity for dogs and owners that teaches the methodology of detection-dog training but for pet dogs!
Its benefits are far and wide with physical activity and mental stimulation using their noses and tapping into what dogs already do naturally, hunt.
This is a class for all dogs: even shy dogs can have a chance to find their niche as nosework is so much more than just searching a room for treats.
It’s about building confidence, learning focus and attention to detail. The best part about this class is your dog can learn “the game" without any distractions such as other dogs being present. This is especially helpful to clients whose dogs are not as friendly towards other dogs. And yes, even the Seniors can join in on the fun as no dog is too old to learn “the game!”
During the search the handler follows their dog, learning to watch their body language and mark the very moment he or she finds the treat. Dogs start out learning to search in boxes and will eventually progress to searching outside of the boxes as the food puzzles get harder and concepts such as scent theory, are taught by the trainer.
Whether you’d like to compete or just have fun with your dog, this class will do wonders for the human-animal bond.
Your dog will learn that “The Nose Work Game” is the only thing that matters. Focusing on the hunt, teaches independence and encourages positive experiences. You, as the handler, will also learn to “read” your dogs’ body language while in the search areas.
This is very much a team-sport, human and dog, learning to work together!
K9 Nose work is fun and stretches your dog’s mind. Searching through scent puzzles enhances your dog’s problem-solving skills.
*Basic obedience and handling skills are required to sign up.
Class Descriptions
Introduction to Nose work class teaches you and your dog the concept of “The Nose Work Game.” (*No Prerequisites Required)
Introduction to Odor class introduces three target odors (Birch, Anise, and Clove) and teaches your dog to recognize these essential oils in varying environmental situations. (*Must have completed Introduction to Nosework)
Continuing Nose work I class builds on the concept of “The Nose Work Game” and teaches your dog to recognize odor in various environments with more difficult odor puzzles. (*You must have completed Introduction to Nose work and Introduction to Odor)
Continuing Nose work II class picks up where Continuing Nose work I leaves off, challenging your dog to more complex odor puzzles and environments.
Continuing Nose work III is for advanced level dogs. In this class, students and dogs work on distractions in the search area. And if the students chooses, they can work on concepts that will get them ready for taking the ORT (Odor Recognition Test) and beyond. (The ORT is not required, it’s an option)
Nose work Drop-in Class: If you’re unable to commit to a five-week session or if you want extra training, join the Friday night drop-in class at 6PM or Sunday morning at 9AM! *Students must have completed Introduction to Nose work.
Nose work Private Lessons: These classes are geared toward dogs who may not be ready for a group class setting. Maybe they’re lacking confidence due to a traumatic past (human/environment fearful) or they need more work on focus techniques. Whatever it is, this class is for you. If you’re interested, please email at mydogsmindnh@gmail.com for scheduling as it is not an option currently on our Book Today page. Prerequisite: Must partake in a Nose work Demonstration Class.
