Scent Work Dog Training at Jenn’s Dogs

To participate in our group scent work and nose work classes, dogs must complete an evaluation or have previously participated in a group training class at Jenn’s Dogs. Evaluations help us determine whether a dog is comfortable in a group learning environment before joining scent work classes.

Private scent work training also begins with an evaluation to help determine the best starting point for your dog’s scent work journey.

Our scent work dog training classes are intentionally kept small, with up to four dogs per class, to support learning, focus, and individualized coaching throughout the search process.

During scent work exercises, dogs work individually while other teams wait in a designated staging area. Early search exercises may also use X-pens to create clear working spaces for each dog. This structure helps dogs stay focused while supporting safety and successful learning during scent work training.

Our group scent work classes and private scent work training programs are structured as seven-session series, with the first session being human only.

During the orientation session, guardians receive the scent work handbook, review equipment recommendations, and begin learning the scent work training techniques and handling skills used throughout the course.

Each session is 50 minutes long

No previous scent work or nose work experience is required for our Level 1 beginner scent work classes. Our beginner scent work program is designed to introduce dogs and guardians to the search process while building foundational handler skills, confidence, and teamwork through scent detection training. 

Dogs work individually during scent work searches so they can focus on the search process without interruption from other dogs. Group scent work classes are intentionally structured to support safety, learning, and focus while giving each dog space to work comfortably during searches. 

Our beginner scent work and nose work classes are appropriate for dogs six months and older. Because scent work uses the dog’s natural ability to smell and problem solve, it is an excellent enrichment activity for adolescent dogs, adult dogs, and senior dogs. 

Scent work training provides dogs with structured mental enrichment while encouraging problem solving, confidence building, and independent thinking. Dogs learn how to slow down, work through challenges, and use their natural sniffing instincts in a rewarding way.

Scent work and nose work classes can be especially beneficial for adolescent dogs, reactive dogs, high-energy dogs, and dogs who become bored easily or benefit from having a job or structured activity.

Jenn’s Dogs uses positive reinforcement and force-free dog training methods that prioritize the welfare and emotional well-being of your dog.

In scent work training, the dog leads the search while the handler supports the process. We focus on reinforcing the search process, rewarding the find, and using free shaping to help dogs build confidence and strong scent work skills without pressure or corrections.

Our scent work classes are designed for the family dog and focus on enrichment, teamwork, and skill development rather than competition-specific training.

However, the scent work and nose work skills developed in our classes create strong foundational search behaviors that can support teams interested in pursuing AKC scent work or formal nose work trials in the future.

Dogs participating in scent work and nose work classes should wear a buckle collar or harness with a standard six-foot leash. A long line of 15 feet or longer may also be used during certain scent work search exercises.

The following equipment is not permitted in class:

• Head halters
• Martingale collars
• Choke chains
• Prong collars
• Shock or electronic collars
• Retractable leashes
• Any equipment designed to cause discomfort or harm

Handlers participating in scent work training will also need a marker, such as a clicker or verbal marker, along with a release cue. Teams will use containers during search exercises, treats or chews for reinforcement, and scent tins for holding odor during scent work searches. 

 cent tins and training treats used during scent work classes are available for purchase at the Jenn’s Dogs Training Studio in Cornelius, Oregon. We carry scent tins used in class along with Fig and Tyler training treats that work well for scent work reinforcement and practice at home.