I firmly believe a scentwork instructor’s most crucial role is having a depth of knowledge regarding where to place the target odour for the dog’s to locate. This skill is honed through extensive experience, observing thousands of searches by hundreds of different breeds in various environments. It’s not something you can simply learn from a book. It is gained from hands-on experience with your own dog(s) and observation of other dogs and handlers.
Having an understanding on how different compound odour molecules move within environments, along with the effects of climate and airflow is of course helpful, knowledge is always powerful and it’s a continuous learning process, but the most valuable lessons come from observing the dogs and their search behaviours. This dynamic nature is what makes scentwork so fascinating.
Effective training requires a predictive approach. By envisioning the desired outcome of how a particular scented article placement is laid, you can tailor the experience to achieve that progression. It is often the first dogs that complete the search or what is termed as a ‘white’ dog who runs the search area first that confirms how the odour is moving. This is not static and the scent picture will be changing every second as surrounding conditions and how that particular odour is dispersing from it’s original source strength is also changing. Observing the ‘white’ dog does allow the Instructor or Judge a degree of confirmation on how the odour is behaving.
While I always strive to set dogs up for success, for a progression in the learning process to occur more challenging hide placements for experienced teams are necessary. However, it’s important to strike a balance and avoid overwhelming the dog to the point of frustration or giving up. A well-timed more straightforward “sweetener” search set up can help maintain motivation.
Target odour placement must be strategic, considering the desired learning outcome for the dog or dog’s within a group session. The placement should present the next level of challenge or reinforce specific aspects of scentwork training.
Maggie
It’s crucial to remember that each dog’s innate behaviour is unique and much of their thought processes during scentwork are invisible to us. We can only observe and learn through repeated interactions. This fosters a deep bond between handler and dog as they become attuned to their own dog’s body language and can support them accordingly. Scentwork builds an unparalleled level of connection between the owner and their dog.
Additionally, the physical capabilities of both the dog and handler must be taken into account.
At a recent Sniff-Away event, I had participants attend with smaller dogs, a senior dog with mobility issues, and a blind dog. Each search required careful assessment before hiding the target odours to ensure the dog’s well-being and avoid any placements that could cause the dog to be physically uncomfortable. The comfort of handlers who had injuries or limitations should also be accounted for. As an instructor, it’s essential to create a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, dog and human.
Mandy Rigby
Scent Work Instructor
Founder Scent Work Academy
Canine Behaviourist