AKC Scentwork is a sport that is based on the task of working dogs to locate a scent and communicate with the owner that the scent has been found. In AKC, we use four odors: birch, anise, clove and cypress. Dogs complete these searches in a variety of venues known as elements: container, buried, interior and exterior. Each element has four classes ranked by degree of difficulty in the search element.
CABTC follows Tony Gravely’s methodology to scent work which is pairing odor with food. We recognize that there are other methodologies but we have decided on pairing as our training philosophy. We expect our students to follow this method without exception. We provide a progressive schedule which consists of 2 Primary Skill classes, 2 Beginning Scent Work classes followed by Advanced classes. The team consists of one dog/handler.
Dogs must have crate manners, leash manners and at least a year old. The only class that does not need instructor approval to register is Scent Primary Skills 1. All other classes are progressive and are for current CABTC students. At this time there are no evening classes.
Beginner
- Tues. 11:00am-12:00pm
This class is designed for dogs that have not yet been introduced to odor and focuses on strengthening their natural hunting instincts. Odor will not be introduced in this class. Food will be used throughout the session.
- Tues. 11:00am-12:00pm
This class continues building the skills introduced in Primary 1. Food will be used throughout the session.
Intermediate
Teams will be introduced to odor using the skills developed in the Primary Skills classes. They will learn leash handling, odor pairing, odor behavior, and the elements of AKC scent trials.
- Tues. 11:00am-12:00pm
- Tues. 12:30pm-1:30pm
This class builds on the skills learned in Beginning Scent Work 1. Pairing is expected throughout the class. Teams will focus on the AKC trial elements: container, buried, interior, and exterior and will learn to search for odor in elements.
This class focuses on developing the skills needed to trial in the Novice and Advanced elements in AKC.
Advanced
This class focuses on building scent work skills while increasing the dog’s motivation, drive, confidence, and problem-solving abilities. It helps the handler and dog build confidence in their skills.
This class continues building the skills needed for successful trialing.
This class continues building skills to help handlers read their dogs and meet the challenges of trial settings.
This class continues helping teams develop the skills they need to succeed. The skills will increase in complexity as teams move to the Excellent/Master elements.
This class is the last session of CABTC skill development curriculum and marks completion of our Scent Work program.
Master
This class is for handler teams competing at the Excellent level or higher. Handlers will learn to design more complex training searches. When possible, classes will be held off-site and in public settings.
Teams will train in community settings and focus on the skills needed to compete at the Excellent and Master levels. Dogs must be able to work around distractions, be appropriately trained for community environments, and show no aggression toward people or other dogs. Enrollment is for one year for each team unless additional sessions are approved by Instructor in consultation with Director.
Calendar
Get involved! Check out our scent work schedule.