Nosework training

[Harley Quinn]

I am not sure if this is the correct place in the training board but I wanted to talk about a new class I have started with Harls. We only went to the first class las Sunday but I am excited about this and I think she will enjoy it too.

Later I will post a photo of the beginner equipment and the first bit of training. I have to get back to work now.

 

[Kay]

Really looking forward to hearing about this.

It's something that's been niggling my mind lately as Boomer loves searching for his ball / finding people and toys so I'm been thinking a little bit on how to build it up (in my very amateur way!)

 

[snowbunny]

If you just want to play around with it by yourself, the Talking Dogs Scentwork DVDs and books are really accessible. Shop: DVDs

 

[Anne123]

That’s what we do with Finn. Correction, my husband do this with Finn. They both are very enthusiastic and Finn is a real pro....every fortnight they will set off and work in the woods.

 

[David]

Labs really love this sort of thing and my girl is no exception. It's a real boon as well as she now has arthritis in her elbows and can't really run around anymore so a bit of scent work is ideal. Also putting the target downwind of her is good for making her remember we are a team and if she looks at me she can get help. Also back command etc.

 

[Jacqui-S]

Can I just say, I thought this evening the title of this thread was Housework Training.
I was impressed.
I think I may be addled with hunger

 

[Harley Quinn]

Oh Jacqui, that is so funny! You must be hungry.

Regarding the nosework, I have wanted to try a course like this with Harley for a while now but work has been really busy. But if I wait for that to change I will wait forever. I was supposed to start 2 weeks ago but I woke up on the Sunday feeling like I was developing a cold, but it turned out to be a spider bite. Naughty spider.

So we went through last Sunday for our first session. It was about 30 mins and mostly information for me which was great. Harley was with me but there was very little training with her, so I didn't feel under pressure to get her to work in a new environment. By the time we had finished with some basic info for me Harley was keen to work.

Here are photos of the starter kit - a box for her to train with at home, a small scent box and a bottle with some Birch scent in. All training is done with a clicker and is all positive reinforcement. The trainer made it very clear that no punishment would be tolerated. Even before I managed to get my bit in, so I felt very comfortable. The trainer helped me by handling the box so that I could just focus on clicking and treating.

We have another session this Sunday and I am very much looking forward to it. I will keep everyone posted.

 

[Jacqui-S]

So, what is the box for, how is it used. Or boxes perhaps?

 

[Harley Quinn]

The large box will have a smaller scent box inside, or not. so they will start with 2 and Harls will need to stick her nose on or in the box with the scent to indicate. Then more and more boxes and up to 3 scents are added. She will need to find the box with the scent I have indicated.

If anyone else would like to add. I am very new to this

 

[Selina27]

This all sounds really great fun, I did sign up for a scentwork class lorally but I haven't heard anything. But I will see how gundog training goes for the time being. @Harley Quinn , great to see you and Harls back here!

 

[HAH]

This looks very cool, I'll look forward to reading how it goes @Harley Quinn . Equipment alone looks exciting - I wonder why birch scent? Maybe because it's pleasant for hoomans as well as dogs

 

[Harley Quinn]

@HAH, I am not sure why the Birch but at least it is pleasant for me. Although I am careful to not get the scent directly on my hands. I think that may confuse Harls.
We didn't have class last weekend because it was a long weekend here. Today's class went well. Harley doesn't "mug" the scent box and that is a good thing. I am very excited about continuing with this training.

 

[HAH]

I am careful to not get the scent directly on my hands

How sensible, not sure I'd have thought of that

I am very excited about continuing with this training

I bet you are! It sounds cool. I hope you both keep enjoying it.