AKC: Handler Discrimination
In AKC Scent Work, competitors also have the opportunity to enter the handler discrimination class, where the dog will locate an article with their scent in the Novice levels, or a scented q-tip or cotton ball in the upper levels of competition.
We will cover how you can introduce this concept to your dog and ensure their success!
Course Details
With handler discrimination, we are moving away from a novel odor to a familiar one. Dogs must be able to locate their handler's scent as opposed to the scent of another person. In this course, we will go step-by-step how to introduce this concept to your dog and ensure they are correct every time. Fun will be had!
Meet Your Instructor

Dianna L. Santos
Owner and Lead Instructor
CPDT-KA
KPA-CTP
CNWI
AKC Scent Work Judge
USCSS Judge and CSD
AKC CGC Evaluator
C.L.A.S.S. Evaluator and Instructor
Should I Take This Course?
Are you planning on competing in AKC Scent Work? Get the training you will need to succeed in the Handler Discrimination class!
Are you looking for something fun to do with your dog? Even if competition is not on your agenda, training your dog to hunt for scented articles can be a fun thing to and benefical in other dog sports as well!
Prerequisites
None
What You Will Need for This Course
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!)
earthquake putty or GlueDots
minimum of 10 cotton gloves
q-tips
cotton balls
minimum of 6 tins with holes
Course Outline
Introducing Handler Discrimination
Find My Scent!
Avoid Distractions and Ensure Success
Container Searches
Exterior Searches
Putting It All Together
We're Privileged to Share This Course With You!
Scent Work University is fortunate to have Dianna grant us license to feature her courses, seminars and webinars on our online dog training platform. All of the content in this course is created by, owned by, and the rights to the content, are reserved to Dianna L. Santos.
WANT TO SEE MORE?
Check out the other online
Prep and Excel at Trial courses we have to offer!