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Scent Work

A Detailed Guide to starting Scent Work training.

Scent WorkThis page provides a comprehensive overview of the KODC Scent Work Training program. It outlines the training format, prerequisites, and step-by-step progression for new members.

Program Overview:

  • Collaborative and Peer-to-Peer: Members train together, with experienced handlers coaching and supporting others.
  • Flexible Levels: Participants come from diverse experience levels, allowing everyone to learn and progress at their own pace.
  • Focus on Skill Development: The primary goal is to improve handling skills and train dogs for Scent Work, regardless of trial participation.
  • Weekly Sessions: Training occurs every Monday evening at 6:30 PM.
  • Location: Typically held at the KODC Clubhouse but may be at other agreed-upon venues.

Pre-requisites and Preferred Preparation:

  • Full KODC Membership: Only full members are eligible to participate.
  • Scent Work Workshop: Attending a KODC Scent Work Workshop or other Scent Work courses led by a recognised Scent Work Trainer is highly recommended. Workshops are organised by the KODC Committee on an ad-hoc basis, or you may find a suitable course yourself.
  • Scent Recognition Proficiency: Your dog should be proficient in recognising at least two ANKC-approved scents (Anise, Birch, Clove, Cyprus).
  • Demonstration of Scent Recognition: Demonstrate your dog's ability to recognise one of the scents at the following levels:
    • Novice Level Containers
    • Novice Level Interior
    • Novice Level Exterior
    • Novice Level Vehicle

General Procedures:

  • Dogs Australia Rules: Training follows the Dogs Australia Rules for the Conduct of Scent Work Trials (effective July 1, 2024).
  • Dog Management: Dogs are generally kept in vehicles or crated during training, with exceptions made for weather or other factors.
  • Effective Control: Dogs must always be under your effective control.
  • Exercise Setup: Scent Detection Exercises are held at the KODC Clubhouse and other agreed locations. Members set up exercises to various levels, with everyone's agreement.
  • Member Responsibilities:
    • Assist with setting up and packing away equipment.
    • Provide odours or other training equipment.
    • Offer constructive feedback to fellow members on handling techniques, training, and Scent Work.

Joining the Group:

  • New Member Limit: Only 3 new members are accepted each month.
  • Preference Criteria:
  • Attendance at the KODC Scent Work Workshop
  • Scent Recognition proficiency.
  • Initial Introduction: Bring your dog to the group to introduce them. No scent detection exercises will be performed, but odour recognition practice may be possible.

Weekly Training Progression:

Week 1 – Orientation:

  • Equipment Setup/Pack-up: Assist with setting up and packing away equipment.
  • Spectator: Observe various training exercises and how Scent Work training is conducted.

 

Week 2 – Introduction to Scent Work Training:

  • Exercise Setup: Help set up at least one search exercise (Exterior, Interior, Container, or Vehicle).
  • Observation: Spectate and observe exercises, paying attention to how dogs and handlers search, and how the exercises are supervised.
  • Equipment Pack-up: Help pack away equipment.

 

Week 3 – Scent Work Training Exercises:

  • Exercise Setup: Help set up at least one search exercise (different from week 2).
  • Supervision: Help supervise search exercises under instruction or independently.
  • Equipment Pack-up: Help pack away equipment.

 

Week 4 – Scent Work Training Your Dog:

  • Exercise Setup: Help set up at least one search exercise (different from the previous two weeks).
  • Supervision: Help supervise search exercises under instruction or independently.
  • Scent Recognition Demonstration: Demonstrate your dog's Scent Recognition proficiency.
  • Training Exercises: Handle your dog in training exercises of your choice. You may request easier levels and choose the odour if your dog is proficient only with specific scents.
  • Equipment Pack-up: Help pack away equipment.

Additional Notes:

  • Open Communication: It's vital to openly communicate any questions, concerns, or requests for assistance.
  • Respectful Environment: The group strives to foster a respectful and encouraging environment where everyone feels comfortable learning.
  • Continuous Learning: Scent Work is a continuous learning process. Remember to be patient with yourself and your dog, and celebrate every milestone along the way!