For a thorough and effect search, your dog needs to work slowly and methodically – something that doesn’t always come naturally! By engaging in scent work we present the opportunity to work our dogs slowly and teach them that this is an effective way of working!

In scent work, the reward or target isn’t visible and the dog doesn’t get external reinforcement through the process. This way they learn that is it valuable and enjoyable to keep working and focusing despite a lack of reward. We can teach our dogs that patience and dedication does eventually pays off!

When dogs are feeling anxious they’re worried about what might happen. Once scent work has been taught, we can use this to give them security and reassurance about what is happening. When they are looking for a target scent they know what to expect, what is going to happen, gives them something to focus on and to tune out irrelevant information.

Sniffing and scenting is a naturally calming behaviour for dogs. Scent work provides a structured opportunity for your dog to engage with this naturally reinforcing and calming behaviour. It provides mental stimulation and feel-good brain chemicals, without the busyness and adrenaline rush of other dogs sports.

Scent work requires you and your dog to work as a team to achieve a goal that can not be completed efficiently independently. With your dog leading the way, you follow behind providing back up and support where needed. This is a unique activity that requires you to trust your dog and follow their instincts. So not only do you learn to trust your dog and witness the power of their abilities, but also they build trust in you. That you are always with them, will help them when needed and that you’ve put your trust in them, that their actions dictate ours. 

Sniffing and scenting is a naturally occurring and rewarding behaviour for dogs. It is not one that can be trained out or restricted completely. Rather than fighting your dogs natural desire to scent, give them the opportunity to do it in a safe productive and controlled environment.

To be responsible dogs owners we have to control so much of our dogs life. This may lead to often telling them no, stopping them doing things and restricting their ability to meet their own needs. This can lead our dogs to create a negative association towards us when we approach or talk to them when doing something fun. Scent work helps to unlearn that association and in turn strengthen the bond. No longer is it, ‘come back here’ or ‘don’t do that’, but instead we say, ‘yes go sniff that’ and ‘show me what you can find’. Much to the relief of our dogs and us.