Scent Quest Dog Training is offering the first K9 Nose Work® in Madison. For class descriptions, go to the Classes page.

Unlike most other dog sports, K9 Nose Work® can be performed by almost any dog regardless of breed, temperament, or age. This sport is a great way to bond with and keep your dog active through cold winters and hot summers. K9 Nose Work® can be played at home for those not wishing to compete or it can be taken to a higher level for those who welcome competition.

Every dog has a natural ability to have fun with K9 Nose Work®. K9 Nose Work® should always be about having fun with your dog. No prior training is required. Searches can be done just about anywhere you can take your dog. Dogs utilize lots of mental and physical energy while they search. Shy or fearful dogs build confidence and have fun searching without the pressure of other dogs being loose or in the search area. Overactive dogs focus their energy into fun searches. Active dogs and retired sports competitors can enjoy the mentally stimulating aspect of problem-solving. It is a low impact, highly enjoyable activity. Aging or disabled dogs use their nose and brain power to play the game at their own pace. A stronger bond can develop between the dog and handler.

K9 Nose Work® is the recreational sport created and sanctioned by the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW™). It was inspired by and borrows elements of the training methodology for professional scent detection dogs. This sport builds on dogs’ natural ability to hunt and detect scent. This is not tracking, it is odor detection. With continued training, dogs learn to find three specific scents hidden indoors, outdoors, on vehicles and in containers.