Scent Work utilizes your dog’s natural ability to sniff out scents. It is an engaging low-impact sport suitable for dogs of all ages and energies; perfect for high energy or timid pups alike. Scent work also gives them something fun and productive to do that extends beyond walks and playtime!
Dogs use their nose as their primary sense, with over 220 million olfactory receptors compared to 5 million for humans. Olfaction can be an invaluable aid to helping dogs learn and excel in various activities – scent work can provide another challenge for both dog and handler teams!
Scent Work helps dogs of all breeds and ages build self-esteem and confidence, with each successful find providing positive reinforcement to increase self-esteem and build self-confidence. It is particularly effective at building the self-esteem and confidence of shy or nervous dogs or those recovering from surgery or injuries; as well as keeping older dogs mentally stimulated with something meaningful to do.
Scent work can be accomplished using either a harness or collar; however, most dogs who compete in advanced competitions use their normal straight collar as this reduces extra clutter, is easier to get started and provides consistent training methods. Some teams even use two matching collars so the dog knows when they are transitioning between activities without confusion or confusion occurring during transition periods.