NACSW K9 Nosework
There’s a good chance your dog has a nose and loves to use it. It’s also a good bet you’ve been frustrated trying to unglue said snout from the olfactory internet he is addicted to. There is a dog sport that may help you both come to terms. Offered through the NACSW (National Association of Canine Scent Work), K9 Nosework, was introduced in 2006. The three founders, Ron Gaunt, Amy Herot and Jill-Marie O’Brian combined an extensive history of dog training experience. (1). These three were the real deal and brought to the endeavor expertise in police canine detection and apprehension work, extensive knowledge of explosives, narcotics, tracking, shelter work, herding, agility, Schutzhund, etc. (2). Quite the joint resume.
Although involved with deadly serious training the three envisioned a way to “bring fun scent work to the greatest number of dogs and their people.” (3). New participants are astonished at how talented their pets are, right out of the blocks. No prior training is required. In fact, in very early training, a rowdy juvenile delinquent dog with no training can briefly out perform a well trained dog. The dog with a solid Leave It command has to learn he or she is not only permitted to sniff in certain scenarios but is lavishly praised and rewarded for the effort. Trained dogs are pleasantly surprised and take to this game quickly.
Nosework is an “obedience-free zone.” (4). Humans are not allowed to unduly direct or correct their charges. Dogs are naturally “equipped for the real contest” (5). and use their incredible sniffing ability to locate food or a toy hidden in one of a number of boxes. Later, the search includes finding a small container which has a Q-Tip scented with an essential oil. Sweet Birch, Clove and Anise are the scents used.
The box search is one of four “elements.” The other three include interior, exterior and vehicle searches. After learning the basics, a dog and his partner are good to go. They will have enough knowledge and skill to have years of fun searching on their own. Many enthusiasts choose to challenge themselves and their furry partners by continuing their education and competing in the ever more demanding three levels of NACSW and for additional titles.. In Level 1, a team will complete a search in each of the four “elements.” By Level 3 the ante is raised with multiple hides, an area without scent and “less accessible hides with varying heights and containment.” (6).
The NACSW goes out of its way to make the sport open to as many dogs and people as possible. Blind, deaf and disabled dogs can compete. Humans with disabilities are welcome. Shy and fearful dogs can develop confidence through K9 Nosework.. Unruly dogs can attain focus. Dog reactive dogs can often be accommodated as you may see a dog sporting a red neckerchief at an event. Only one dog works at a time and all others are kept on leash, in cars or crated. A distance of at least eight feet is kept between dogs, who are discouraged from socializing.
K9 Nosework is a great outlet for dogs, young and old, as they are rewarded for showing off their incredible scenting ability. (7). Taking a class is also loads of fun for humans, young and old, as the handler and his/her partner develop a deeper bond as they learn, practice and spend time together. In a class you not only encourage your dog but will cheer for all dogs in the class. Each participant will have a unique style. You might see a methodical thirteen year old who has lost a step or two but does not miss a scent. There may be an impulsive whirlwind racing down a row of boxes only to stop and flip a dramatic airborne 180 turn when he realizes he has passed the “source” (scent).
This a a dog sport available to all dogs and people. The cost is of scenting equipment is minimal. You will need a scent box, which could be an Altoids tin or magnetic key holder, oil of Sweet Birch, a Q-Tip and perhaps some tweezers. Should be less than $20 unless you purchase fancy tweezers. Of course, kits are available through NACSW and elsewhere. (8). You can train at home and in innumerable locations, when it works for you. It runs $35 to join the NACSW and additional fees for events. If your dog had a dialog balloon over his head he would be thinking a doggie version of, “I can really get paid for this???” He would also want you to get a custom bumper sticker that reads, “I would rather be sniffing.”
(1). Ron Gaunt passed away in 2017.
(2). The Founders - K9NoseWork.com.
(3). Ibid.
(4). What is K9 Nose Work®? - K9NoseWork.com.
(5). Mr Toad, from Wind In The Willows.
(6), Understanding NW1, NW2 & NW3 levels of Competition | NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CANINE SCENT WORK
(7). Dog sense of smell - Wikipedia.
(8). Target Odors, Kits and Supplies - K9NoseWork.com