Classes: General Information

Class Progression & Structure

In class, dogs work one at a time with their handler. There are no other dogs in the search area or on the sidelines, and dogs do not interact with each other. After completing their turn, dogs are crated in the handler’s car while other teams work.

This setup is designed to give dogs the mental space they need to focus and also rest between turns, allowing them to absorb what they’ve learned and stay engaged.

While their dog is resting, handlers have the opportunity to observe other teams, which allows them to improve their understanding of dog’s searching behavior.

This format also ensures that dog reactive dogs can safely participate in class.

  • Any age! No prerequisite skills are necessary. Lessons are adjusted to suit the individual dog.

  • Intro to K9 Nose Work classes are held indoors. Intro to Odor will have some classes that are held outdoors and will be communicated prior to class.

  • Classes are cancelled for inclement weather or extreme heat. We simply extend the class another week when we need to cancel.

  • The structure of nose work classes is different from other dog classes. Only one dog works at a time, for many reasons. First, dog reactive dogs are welcome. That means making sure all dogs feel safe so they can enjoy the benefits of Nose Work. Second, after each of your dog’s searches, putting him away so he can rest also solidifies what he just learned. And finally, observation is a large part of your learning in Nose Work. You’ll need to understand why your dog does what he does when he’s searching, and there’s no better way to learn that than watching how the other dogs problem solve in their searches.

  • Your dog will need to be crated in your vehicle in the parking area right outside of the building.

FAQs

Please reach out if you have more questions

Cancellation & Refund Policy

No Refunds: All class fees are non-refundable once payment has been made. This includes cancellations for any reason, including personal schedule conflicts or changes in availability.

Transfers: If you notify me at least 14 days before the course start date by e-mail, I may allow a one-time transfer to a future class, subject to availability. Transfers are not guaranteed.

Make-Ups: If you miss a session, a courtesy make-up session may be arranged IF there is another session at the same level and IF the other session has available space.

Session Cancellations: If a session is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather, we will extend class out by 1 week.