Nosework Classes
Nosework is a dog sport that harnesses a dog's keen sense of smell and hunting instincts. Dogs are trained to locate specific scents hidden in various environments, like containers, interiors, and exteriors. Handlers guide their dogs through the search areas, and dogs signal when they've found the scent.
Nosework is inclusive, welcoming all breeds, and provides mental stimulation and a rewarding experience for dogs. Competitions showcase teams' abilities to locate scents accurately, strengthening the bond between handler and dog.
Email dogs@runwilddogsports.com with questions.
Not sure where to begin?
Find the Right Class for You and Your Dog
Answer a few quick questions about your dog and your goals, and we’ll recommend classes that fit.
What Our Clients Say
“The instructors meet me where we are at that particular moment, not their lesson plan. They help me understand what is working and what isn't, and give me tools and homework that help us progress. The training is supportive, innovative, science-based, and evolves as we learn more about dogs and how they think.”
Class Options
Nosework Foundations
Build your dog’s natural hunt drive and learn the foundations of Nosework in a supportive six-week class. Dogs begin with food searches and are also introduced to target odor.
You’ll practice: Independent searching, reading your dog’s behavior, building confidence, and working one-on-one with the instructor during class turns.
Best for: Dogs of any breed, size, or temperament, including teams that are completely new to scent work.
Before enrolling: If your dog needs additional support because of shyness, reactivity, or sensitivity, email training@runwilddogsports.com.
Novice Competition Nosework
Prepare for NW1 and Novice trials by turning foundational search skills into a consistent competition routine.
You’ll practice: Start-line routines, ORT preparation, and the NACSW and AKC search elements—interiors, exteriors, containers, and vehicles.
Best for: Teams beginning their competition path who want practical trial preparation and instructor insight into the trial environment.
Prerequisite: Nosework Foundations or equivalent experience, plus instructor permission.
Advanced Competition Nosework
Strengthen communication and improve performance while working odor in increasingly varied and challenging environments.
You’ll practice: Container, interior, exterior, and vehicle searches tailored to the class and current environmental conditions.
Focus: Search efficiency, understanding odor movement, problem-solving, and confidence for both dog and handler.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of an ORT and NW1 through NACSW, or Novice through AKC. Email training@runwilddogsports.com for placement help.
Mixed-Level Nosework
Continue developing Nosework skills in a flexible class that serves newer teams and experienced search teams together.
Format: Exercises and games are adjusted to each team’s experience level. One dog works at a time while dogs awaiting their turn remain safely in their vehicles.
Best for: Teams that have completed an introductory class and want ongoing practice, targeted skill-building, or experience with new hide types and search situations.
Prerequisite: Nosework Foundations or equivalent experience, plus instructor permission.
