Description

Nosework is a growing sport for dog enthusiasts with multiple organizations offering the chance to compete for titles. The goal of this eight-week class is to lay the foundations of all canine scent detection by establishing a solid indication of target odor.  Dogs naturally know how to use their noses and search. This class will focus on teaching dogs how to tell their handlers when they have found what they are looking for by teaching them an indication behavior (sit or down with a focused stare). To accomplish this, dog and handler teams will shape the indication behavior on odor obedience boxes starting with a down, then sit indication for higher hides. As teams progress, we will work on proofing the indication against distractions as well as adding in searches on multiple boxes and materials. A solid indication is the most important factor in achieving success in this sport, and once this is mastered, a dog will be able to move on to more challenging searches.

Participants will be provided with the target odor cocktail (birch, anise, clove, myrrh, and vetiver) and a practice box to use at home. Home practice will be encouraged to help dogs master the techniques learned in class.

Introduction to Nosework:  Mastering the Indication

Start Date:  Monday 07/28
Time: 7:15p – 8:15p
Length of class: 8 weeks

 If you are registering for this class and have not already filled out the online enrollment form, please do so here:
https://www.austincaninecentral.com/training/class-enrollment-form/