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Nosework

Have you ever seen search and rescue or drug/bomb sniffing canines work and been in awe of their skill at following and detecting odor?

Now your dog can also experience the excitement of using their keen, natural, scenting abilities while developing a greater bond working with you. Whether you choose to participate in this rewarding activity with your dog for fun or want to trial and earn titles, we have a class for you!

Nosework 1

Nosework 1 is an introduction to Nosework class. This class is intended for dogs that have not been introduced to any of the target odors. ANY dog can play – large, small, old or young. Nosework 1 will prepare teams to participate in both American Kennel Club Scent work (AKC Scent work) and United Kennel Club Nosework (UKC Nosework). These skills will provide you hours of fun with you and your dog. Nosework exercises can be conducted in your basement, garage, back yard, at the local park or wherever you and your dog decide to play indoors and out!

Nosework 2

Nosework 2 is a continuation of Nosework 1 or for dogs who have been introduced to any of the target odors (birch at a minimum). Dogs will continue to build skills in Nosework 2 through different searches (interior, containers, vehicles and exteriors).

Using positive reinforcement methods based on detection and search-and-rescue dog training, these classes will give you a strong foundation in the sport of Nosework.

Caution: Human and canine addiction to nosework is highly possible even at this level.

Check the calendar for class dates and times.

Barn Hunt

Barn hunt is a relatively fast growing sport in the Midwest. In barn hunt, dogs are required to search and alert on tubes that house a live rat. The courses are set up with straw bales to simulate a “barn” environment. Dogs must do a climb, tunnel and find a set number of rats (dependent on level) before a time limit is reached and without alerting on any litter tubes.

Barn hunt is for any dog – big, small, young or old!

Go Dogs offers Barn Hunt practices and classes throughout the year. Check the calendar for class and practice dates.

More information about the sport of Barn Hunt can be found at the Barn Hunt Association.

Tracking

Go Dogs offers tracking classes occasionally, usually in the spring or fall.

Tracking is an outdoor sport where a dog follows human scent to locate articles placed along the track by that human. Very little equipment is required – a harness, a 20 to 40 ft tracking line, flags to mark your track, tracking articles which are usually inexpensive gloves and an open grassy area. There are various methods to teach tracking – but ultimately they all rely on some sort of reward for a job well done – treats, your dog’s breakfast, a favorite toy. Our tracking classes are taught by experienced, knowledgeable instructors who will help you get started on your tracking journey.

Helpful tracking links to get you started:

More Information

Contact us for more information about any of the Tracking, Nosework, or Barn Hunt classes by submitting the form below: