Here is what we have learned about nose work.
A Little History The sport of nose work is very new - less than six years old! It began in 2009 with the very first trial in Southern California, but has grown to include sanctioned events nationwide. The National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) was founded as the organization that oversees and officiates the sport, awarding titles to dogs of all ages and breeds, including mixed breeds. Ron Gaunt, one of the founders, is a retired police officer who worked in the K9 unit with the Inglewood Police Department. He started NACSW along with Amy Herot and Jill-Marie O'Brien, both trainers, in order to bring nose work to everyone in the form of competitive fun. One of the reasons I am excited about this organization and sport is that nose work has been embraced as a way to rehabilitate rescue dogs. Amy Herot spends some of her time volunteering to improve the lives of rescue dogs.
The Sport Dogs and their handlers can earn titles that test their ability to detect three different scents. Levels of difficulty can include container and vehicle searches.
NW1: The dog has to demonstrate proficiency in recognizing one target odor.
NW2: The dog has to demonstrate proficiency in two target odors. In addition, the difficulty level is increased with larger search areas, more hidden odors, and adding environmental distractions.
NW3: The dog has to demonstrate proficiency in three target odors, and the difficulty level is significantly increased.
These are the three basic titles, and then there are also "element" and "elite" titles that can be earned.
The ORT In order to enter trials, handler/dog teams must have passed an Odor Recognition Test (ORT) prior to being allowed to register for a trial. This ensures that the dog knows the targeted scent that will be used in competition. In order to pass an ORT, the dog has to identify the location of the target odor, and the handler has to correctly call an ‘alert’ within a three-minute time period.
To compete in the sport of K9 Nose Work®, dogs have to transition from searching for food or toys to searching for a "target odor". Target odors for competition in NACSW K9 Nose Work events are made using 100% cotton swabs, cut in half and scented with one of the three essential oils: Birch, Anise, and Clove.
In training, target odors are introduced in a spefici order. First, birch, then anise, and then clove.
Pongo has a private training session on Tuesday with our instructor from his Intro to Nose Work class. We will be transitioning from searching for food and introducing him to birch! Fun, fun, fun!
Please visit the official NACSW website for more information.
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