Teams that have taken a Foundations of K9 Nose Work® (or similar) course where you were introduced to searching for primary reinforcers (food or toys). Dogs do not need to be on odor to sign up. However, teams will need a solid foundation of how to search in a variety of environments. Teams that are already working with paired odor are also welcome to join. 

Exteriors: Teams are introduced to exterior search environments, learning how weather, space and distractions impact searching & odor. Emphasis is placed on leash handling, teamwork, and trusting your dog in dynamic settings.

Vehicles: Teams are introduced to the unique challenges of vehicle searches, focusing on safety, search flow/pattern and reading your dog's responses around tight spaces and varied odor patterns. 

Exterior Key Skills:

• 1. • Exterior search strategy

     • How to support your dog in new environments

     • Reading dog body language

     • Handler positioning and leash skills

Vehicle Key Skills:

• 1. • Vehicle search patterns

     • Supporting independence without overhandling

     • Understanding pooling and containment

     • Handler confidence around vehicles