Building Independence in Scent Work

Dogs must showcase a certain level of confidence and independence to be successful in Scent Work. The ability to work independently, make decisions and not simply cue off the handler is of paramount importance.

In this 6-week course, we will go over a variety of exercises designed to help your dog develop the confidence and independence they need. These exercises will also help you as handler have a better understanding of when you should step back and let your dog work, or when you may need to step in help.

• your dog

• flat or martingale collar

• back-clip harness (optional)

• 6'-8' leash

• 10'-15' long line

• LOTS of high-value and smelly treats

• crate or area you can stage your dog in while setting up your searches

• minimum of 10 boxes of various sizes (good excuse to shop at Amazon!)

• minimum of 10 novel containers (Tupperware containers, purses, bag, etc.)

• earthquake putty or GlueDots

• q-tips

• Birch ("Sweet Birch" aka Betula Lenta)

• Anise ("Aniseed" aka Pimpinella Anisum)

• Clove ("Clove Bud" aka Eugenia Caryophylatta)

• minimum of 10 tins with holes

IMPORTANT

Ideally, your dog is familiar hunting for at least 1 target odor (Birch, Anise and/or Clove). However, dogs working solely on primary are also welcome!

• Trusting the Dog

• Reading the Dog v. Leading the Dog

• Independent Searches

• What About Patterns?

• When to Step In v. When to Push

• Test Your Progress

Do you find your dog regularly looking to you for help during their searches? With this course we will outline how you can help your dog rely more on their amazing sense of smell to solve their odor puzzles. This will shift you into a more supportive role, as opposed to doing it for them!

INSTRUCTOR NAME:

Dianna L. Santos

SHORT BIO:

The President of Online Dog Training, Inc. and Cyber Scent Work, Inc., Dianna is the Owner and Lead Instructor for Scent Work University. She is passionate about Scent Work and loves the benefits it awards dogs and handlers alike.