Discover the new search and scenting dog sport. Dogs love it.
Inspired by working Detection (Sniffer) dogs, nosework harnesses a dog’s natural instinct to use his nose to find hidden scents. Dogs learn to recognise, discriminate, and search for a specific target odour. Dogs then build love for the search, hunting drive, and search skills.
The search becomes a fun ‘game’ for both the dog and the human. The activity increases ‘feel-good’ hormones in your dog’s brain, making your dog happy and more relaxed. Nosework involves problem solving and burns mental and physical energy, providing a safe way to keep dogs fit and healthy at any age or disabilities. It helps dogs gain confidence and independence, and it strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Suitable for virtually all dogs, even for socially challenged, shy / fearful, ageing, or disabled dogs. You can search almost anywhere without the need for equipment. No prior training or dog sport experience required.
Play it as a fun enrichment activity or even compete in trials. The sport is huge overseas and is rapidly growing in New Zealand. Nosework trials are now being held around the country through the Scent Sport Association New Zealand (SSANZ) and DogsNZ.
Upcoming courses
Introduction to Nosework - Odour
4 weeks. Dogs learn to recognise, discriminate, and search for a target odour (Clove Bud oil) and have fun searching. Plenty of personalised attention and support.
Date: 10th April 2025
Time: 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm
Location: Indoor training facility at Pet Essential, 32a Commerce St, Whangarei
Cost: $220 per person - includes a complete odour starter kit
Bookings: Essential (small groups) Max 4-5 dogs
Requirements:
Dogs must be comfortable and not reactive to other dogs and humans when working/learning in close proximity. (Reactive dogs would need to be accommodated by individual arrangement or in a different course).
All dogs entering the training facility must be up to date with vaccinationsWhatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Advanced Nosework Skills
3 weeks. Develop the teamwork necessary for successful trialing.
For Happy Tails Nosework - Odour graduates only.
Dates: To be scheduled
Time: 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm
Location: Indoor training facility at Pet Essential, 32a Commerce St, Whangarei
Bookings: Essential. Limited spots.
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Group Nosework practice sessions
For teams that have completed the Introduction to Nose Work (odour) course. Depending on demand, we can meet to practice with our dogs in different environments and share learning and training ideas. Even if you haven’t practiced much with your dog, it's great fun. For those interested in competing, it’s a great opportunity to brush up on skills.
What’s so great about Nose Work
It makes dogs very happy because it satisfies their instinct to use their nose
A more happy and relaxed dog as the activity increases the ‘feel-good’ hormones in the dog’s brain
Dogs easily burn mental and physical energy – it provides a safe way to keep dogs fit and healthy at any age or disabilities
Builds confidence and focus in many dogs
Strengthens bonds between you and your dog
Suitable for virtually all dogs, even for socially challenged, shy and fearful, aging, or disabled dogs (dogs search one at a time)
You can search almost anywhere without the need for equipment
No prior training or dog sports experience is required