Scentwork trials

About scentwork trials

Scentwork is one of the most accessible dog sports in the UK. Dogs search a set area for a hidden target odour and show the handler where it is, in exercises loosely based on how detection dogs work. It is far easier on the joints than agility or flyball, so almost any breed or crossbreed can take part, from young dogs to veterans. Here is what scentwork trials involve, who runs them and what to ask a breeder if you want a puppy suited to this nosework dog sport.

What this work involves

A scentwork search is a structured game of hide and seek. The handler brings the dog into a search area and the dog works it with its nose. When the handler can tell from the dog’s body language that it has found the hide, they call the find to the judge. Scentwork UK does not insist on a particular indication, although some handlers teach a clear signal such as a freeze or a nose touch. Each search has a time limit, which varies with the level.

Trial searches take place in different settings. Interior searches use tables and chairs, bags, boxes and items around the edge of a room. Exterior searches use items set out in an outdoor area, and some searches cover a vehicle or a wall. At higher levels handlers also have to work around restrictions such as no-go zones and mini-zones.

Most people start with scent work classes run by a local trainer. The dog first learns to love searching and is then taught to find a target odour. Many owners take up the sport with an older dog that needs mental exercise more than physical exercise.

Who trains and supplies these dogs in the UK

Scentwork is run by owners and clubs. You cannot buy a trained trial dog. Owners train their own pet dogs, usually by going to classes.

Scentwork UK is the best-known organisation. It has been running for more than ten years and holds trials across the country, from Scotland to London. Its programme has 16 levels grouped into three tiers. Every team starts at Level 1 and moves up by qualifying at Scentwork UK trials against a consistent national standard. A team that collects 20 points at a level earns the Excellent title for that level. Its three target odours are clove, gun oil and truffle oil. Scentwork UK keeps a database of trainers around the country who run its classes, and runs courses and workshops for people who want to become trainers, judges or trial managers. Dogs must be registered with Scentwork UK before they can enter its trials.

Breeders listed on this site sell puppies. They do not sell trained scentwork dogs, and no puppy comes “qualified” for anything. A good breeder can give you a sound, confident puppy from parents with the temperament and drive that suit searching.

Breeds and lines

Scentwork trials are open to any breed or crossbreed. Some breeds do bring obvious search drive:

• English Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel. These are the breeds most often seen in detection work, where police forces and other agencies choose and train their own dogs. They search busily and keep going. Working-bred lines usually have more drive than show-bred lines, which suits some homes and not others.
• Labrador Retriever. Labradors love food, are easy to train and stay steady, so linking the odour to a reward is simple.
• Everything else. Hounds, terriers, herding breeds and toy breeds all compete. Small dogs are often very good at interior and container searches.

If scentwork is a main reason for buying, look for a breeder whose dogs have entered trials, or who can put you in touch with puppy buyers who compete.

What to ask a breeder

1. Have the parents, or earlier puppies from these lines, done scentwork, trials or other search activities? If so, at what level?
2. How would you describe each parent’s drive? Do they keep searching when it gets difficult, and do they settle calmly afterwards?
3. Which health tests have both parents had? Can I see the certificates, or check them on the Royal Kennel Club Health Test Results Finder if the dogs are registered?
4. How do you raise puppies to be confident in new places, on different floors and around noise and strangers?
5. Which puppy in this litter would suit a first-time handler in a busy home, rather than someone who wants a high-drive working type?

Frequently asked questions

Can any dog take part in scentwork trials?

Yes. Scentwork UK says scentwork suits dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. It relies on the nose rather than speed or jumping, so it is popular with owners of older dogs. Scentwork UK also says it can be especially helpful for reactive or shy dogs, because it builds confidence and focus.

How do I find scent work classes near me?

Scentwork UK has a map of trainers who teach its programme, and many general dog training clubs run their own classes. Look for reward-based training and small class sizes.

Do I need a working-bred spaniel to compete?

No. Working-bred spaniels have plenty of drive. That helps in a search, but they can be hard to live with if they are under-occupied. Many successful scentwork dogs are pet Labradors, crossbreeds and small breeds. Choose a dog that suits your home first.

Do your dogs take part in scentwork, or do your lines have the search drive that scentwork handlers look for? Add your listing to Canine Breeder so owners looking for a scentwork puppy can find you.