Scent Work
SCENT WORK
Tap Into Your Dog’s Natural Instincts
Suitable for all breeds, ages and temperaments. Scent work is a fun, enriching activity that teaches dogs to search, problem-solve and work independently using their natural ability to sniff.
Our Scent Work program runs as a progressive pathway, with 4-week training blocks that build on each other. Dogs and handlers advance together over time, developing skills from Foundations through to more advanced levels at their own pace.
Completion of Family Dog Training Level 2 is required before joining our Scent Work program as part of the BDTC training pathway. Scent Work is very popular and currently has a waitlist.
PROGRESSIVE PATHWAY
Start in foundations, progress over time
COURSE FORMAT
1 hour per week, 4 week blocks
MENTAL WORKOUT
Builds focus, confidence and drive
TRAINING STYLE
Positive reward-based
WHAT IS SCENT WORK?
A Sport That Lets Dogs Do What They Do Best
Scent work teaches dogs to search for and locate a target scent, then communicate that they have found it. It gives dogs a clear job, engages their brain and helps build confidence through success. Training begins with simple searches and develops into more complex hides, environments and problem-solving tasks. It is suitable for many dogs, including those who may not enjoy high-impact sports.
TRAINING PATHWAY
Our Scent Work Program
We have two levels of scent work training designed to build skill and confidence progressively. Our scent work classes follow a simple progression, helping teams build strong foundations first before moving into greater complexity. Teams with prior scent work experience from outside the club will be asked to complete a short assessment so we can help place you in the most suitable level.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Scent Work Foundations
A beginner-friendly introduction to searching, building motivation and helping dogs understand the game. Focuses on confidence, engagement and the foundations needed for future scent work progression.
Search motivation
Primary reinforcer searches
Environmental confidence
Start line routine
Build odour awareness
Simple persistence
Handler connection
Long lead mechanics
How to read your dog
Science of scent
Reward timing
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Scent Work Progression
For teams ready to build on their foundation skills with more advanced search challenges. Increases independence, complexity and consistency while continuing to strengthen teamwork and clarity.
Intro to 4 elements (vehicle, containers, exterior, interior
Intro to 4 odours (birch, anise, cypress, clove
Alert indication
Multiple hides
Complex scent puzzles
Elevated hides
Inaccessible hides
Threshold hides
Working blind hides
Trial preparation
Developing handling skills
PRICING
Scent Work Courses:
$80 each
Completion of Family Dog Training Level 2 is required before joining our Scent Work program as part of the BDTC training pathway. This popular program is currently full, with a long waitlist in place.
What's Included?
- Capped class sizes
- 4 one-hour training sessions
- Priority for progression blocks
- Starter scent training kit
- Odour tip kit for home
- Knowledgeable instructor
Before Your First Class?
- Complete Family Dog Training 2 or assessment
- Proof of up-to date vaccination or titre test
- Well fitted collar or harness and 3-5m lead
- Plenty of high-value small treats
- Closed-in shoes
- A positive attitude