
Scentwork Course Descriptions
Intro to Scent (Birch)
Weeks: 3
Length: 60 minutes per session
Prerequisites: Suitable for dogs of any age, ability, or breed.
Designed for scent teams that have little to no experience searching for essential oils. In this course we will start with birch and learn the basics of how scent flows, how to work as a team with your dog, how to read your dog’s body language and set up simple searches at home.
Equipment: For this short intro class you will need small, soft treats your dog can’t resist, a flat collar or harness, and a six foot leash.
Please email Kim Poisson with questions.
Novice Scent
Weeks: 6
Length: 60 minutes per session
Prerequisites: For dogs that have completed Intro to Scent or are proficient with birch (instructor approval if you have not completed Intro but have trained the basics).
Skills learned in Intro will be expanded upon over six weeks. Topics covered are air movement, handler skills, reading canine body language, and search techniques. Searches will include boxes, containers, interior (including elevated) and by week 6 dogs will be searching target odors of birch, anise, and clove.
Dogs will be crated between turns and must be comfortable with crating. Handler will need to bring a crate for their dog for class.
NOTE: There are no dogs on week one as we will review Intro skills and discuss advanced scent theory. We will provide a scent kit on week one for home use. The cost is included in the registration fee.
Class size limited to six students.
Please email Kim Poisson with questions.
Tricks Class Descriptions
AKC Novice Tricks class
Weeks: 3
Length: 60 minutes per session
Prerequisites: Suitable for dogs of any age, ability, or breed.
Did you know “sit” is a trick? We will focus on the AKC Novice Trick list and learn about breaking tricks down into steps and then how to put it all together.
Equipment: For this class you will need an ample supply of small, soft treats, and a six foot leash. Optional equipment would be a clicker and a favorite NON-SQUEAKY toy.
Please email Kim Poisson with questions.