Photo by Alyse Mineroff

K9 Nose Work

Every dog can sniff!

K9 Nose Work® turns your dog’s natural sniffing instincts into a fun and rewarding adventure. Dogs learn to search for hidden odors while building confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Whether you’re looking for a new adventure, a confidence-building activity, or a path toward competition, Nose Work helps you and your dog discover the joy of searching together.

Photo by Powell Creative

About Me & My Methods

Jessica Daggit, CNWI

My passion for dogs has been a lifelong journey. In 2013, I became a Certified Dog Trainer to help pet owners build stronger, more fulfilling partnerships with their dogs.

I discovered K9 Nose Work® in a class with Cindy Knowlton, CNWI, and was immediately captivated. Inspired, I became a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI) myself.

I follow the philosophy of the Dog-Driven Search, letting dogs take the lead and giving them the freedom to problem-solve naturally. Nose Work is at its best when dogs are confident, independent, and joyful, not when every step is directed by the handler.

In my training, I strive to make learning positive, fun and enriching for both dogs and their handlers.

Classes

In Person Classes

Hands-on Nose Work classes designed to help dogs build confidence, search independently, and develop their natural problem-solving skills. Learn how to support your dog’s search, improve your handling, and build a stronger partnership.

Learn more

Learn, practice, and grow together from home! Online classes include weekly lessons, guided homework, and live class where video feedback is given to help you better understand your dog’s search skills, improve your handling, and build teamwork.

Online Classes

Learn more

What Students Are Saying

I found Jess at the perfect time - my dog Hunter and I were hitting the higher levels of nosework and his enthusiasm was taking big hits. Jess introduced me to Dog Driven Searching and I was skeptical, but it saved our training! He is having so much fun again, both in class and in trials. She is also helping me start the foundation for my young dog and I’m seeing so much promise. She really takes the time to answer my questions and consider the individual dog. I highly recommend classes or privates with Jess!

—Alyse M.
If you are looking for something new and fun to do with your dog, sign up for Jessica Daggit’s Introduction to K9 Nosework class! My foxhound, Barbie, had a blast and I could see her improving her search skills in each class and with the homework. What I didn’t expect was to learn leash handling techniques to support my dog’s success! Jessica’s calm, friendly and encouraging teaching style means you learn quickly and in a non-stress environment. One of the best parts was to also learn by watching the other students in the class working with their dogs. Highly recommend!

—Sherrie D.
Both Rain and I enjoyed our Nosework class with Jessica. She was very informative about her style of Nosework and how the dog does his job with support from his handler. Jessica teaches by demonstrating how to move with your dog. She is very enthusiastic about our success in finding the hides. Both my dog and I enjoyed her class and plan more sessions with Jessica. I recommend her classes.

—Diane S.
When my little terrier first stepped into the training room she was trembling with fear and uncertainty. By the time six weeks were over, she pulled me up the stairs, into the search area and bounced through the room searching for odor. Jessica helped me learn to stay connected to my dog during her searches and at the same time I learned to give her the independence she needed. Jessica is thoughtful and flexible and we both learned so much.

-Phyllis S.
Jessica's Nose Work classes have significantly contributed to strengthening the bond between my dog and me since I adopted him. Jessica takes the time to understand each dog and handler team, tailoring her sessions to meet their individual needs. Her patience, willingness to answer questions, and emphasis on the dog-driven search method have been instrumental in building our connection. My dog is leash-reactive toward other dogs, which often makes group classes stressful. However, Jessica's classes are designed so that only one dog is in the classroom at a time, allowing us to participate comfortably from start to finish. Additionally, I believe that my dog’s increased confidence and trust in me as a team member through nosework are positively impacting his leash reactivity during walks. I highly recommend Jessica's classes as an effective way to bond with your dog, as they emphasize the dog taking the lead and the handler providing support.

-Mary S.
Jessica has presented a different approach to teaching Nose Work in Maryland. It is the “Dog Driven Search,” where the dog leads the search rather than the handler. She trains out of a small space but uses many props to keep lessons interesting for both handlers and dogs. She puts a lot of energy and planning into each lesson and is very enthusiastic. One of the things I enjoy most about her classes is that even when things do not end as expected, or when electing to end a search, it is done on a positive note for both dog and handler. If a question is asked that she is not sure of, she will research it and get back to you. My dog and I enjoy her classes, and I feel free to voice my opinion as I formulate my own training philosophy.

-Linda M.
My dogs and I love Jessica’s nosework classes. Learning a dog-led search style has helped both my experienced and novice dogs build confidence and independence, while also taking pressure off me as the handler and making the experience more enjoyable. Jessica is an incredibly supportive instructor who provides clear, real-time feedback so I can make adjustments right away. She pays close attention to each dog’s personality, behaviors, and sensitivities, offering suggestions that truly fit them as individuals. She does a great job highlighting what’s going well while also helping us improve. The classes are fun, engaging, and highly recommended, whether you’re interested in trials or just want quality time and enrichment with your pup.

-Karen K.
We are so happy that we found Jessica and started nose work with our rescue, Bodhi. Jessica has experience, in-depth knowledge, kindness, and compassion. Our dog is reactive and anxious, and she has made both the group class and private session a completely safe space. Dogs do not meet, and our dog is able to relax and focus on his work. He loves coming to class now and has no problem waiting in the car. I have started to use the instructions on how to use the leash on regular walks too. This has improved our bond, and he is more relaxed on walks. I take my time more and let him lead where he wants to smell and how fast he goes. This has improved life for both of us. Thank you, Jessica!

—Carla Z.
Jessica’s nosework classes have boosted my dog’s confidence. I decided to enroll Saison in nosework to help with her extreme anxiety. Jessica gives clear instructions and demos. But most of all, Jessica is so attuned to Saison’s needs and creates a class experience tailored perfectly to build Saison’s confidence and ease her anxiety.

-Pam H.
My dog, Lupa, and I have been training with Jessica for just under a year. Lupa was a wild, highly reactive adolescent when I adopted her and Nosework has helped her channel her energy. Right now Lupa is preparing for her first trial and is a different dog. Beyond learning odor, these classes have grown our bond and teamwork, helped Lupa learn patience, and encouraged her thoughtfulness and intention in new environments. Jessica has been an incredible guide not only in the world of Nosework but has been a patient teacher with me and Lupa through a rotating list of other handler/dog issues. She has a gift to find creative dog- and handler- specific approaches for each team in class. Most importantly, I have always felt extremely welcomed and encouraged in all of her classes.

-Brittany T.

About My Dogs

A Clumber Spaniel dog sitting outdoors in a forest, tongue out, with fall leaves around.

Photo by Powell Creative

I am delighted to share my Nose Work journey with my Clumber Spaniel, Goomba. His enthusiasm and love for the sport keeps me eager to continue learning and enjoy every moment.

Goomba, registered name, Clussexx Red Baron, is the 12th Clumber Spaniel to earn a NACSW NW1 title.

He enjoys hiking, sniffing, sleeping but most of all loves having fun with his mom and dad whatever they choose to do.

Photo by Powell Creative

I am so excited to be starting another dog in Nose Work. From the moment I brought Gimli, a Sussex Spaniel, home at 8 weeks, he was firecracker about searching. I am enjoying every moment teaching and learning from him and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for us. Hopefully big things!

Gimli’s registered name is Primetime Nobody Tosses a Dwarf but we just call him our ‘Crack Spaniel’, as he loves to work and is always wanting to fetch or hunt for his ball.