- laura@lauracartercanines.co.uk
- 07548 880298
Scent work
Does your dog love to sniff?
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a confidence-boosting activity for your dog, or want to advance your skills with odour, scent work offers something for everyone.
At Laura Carter Canines, we teach pet dogs how to sniff out specific scents—starting with Kong or gun oil—and show their handler exactly where it’s hidden. It’s fun, accessible, and incredibly rewarding for both dogs and owners.
Scent work, also known as dog nose work or canine scent detection, is an exciting activity where you and your dog work as a team to search for and indicate a specific scent. It engages their natural sniffing instincts, providing essential mental stimulation, focus, and confidence-building.
Your dog will learn to search for a particular target odour (gun oil, or Kong) hidden in different environments.
When they find the scent, they will indicate it with a clear signal, such as a freeze. Your role is to read your dog’s body language, guide them, and reward their success—making scent work a fun and engaging team sport!
It is a fantastic way to mentally and physically engage your dog, whether you have a playful puppy, a high-energy breed, a senior slowing down, or a reactive dog needing focus.
We offer one off workshops, 1-2-1 sessions, weekly training classes and competitions providing expert-led scent detection training tailored for pet dog owners, from complete beginners to those looking to compete.
We are based near Johnshaven, Montrose, Scotland DD10 0HY
Why choose Laura Carter Canines
We offer a unique scent work experience designed to help pet dogs thrive while having fun:
Small, personalised classes – A maximum of 3 dogs per class ensures one-to-one coaching.
Exclusive private venue – Train in our cosy indoor dog training barn with a log burner or outdoors in 8 acres of secure woodland.
Experienced scent work instructor – Over 15 years of dog training experience, with 8 years specialising in scent work and active competition experience with my own spaniel and dalmatian.
Full support beyond class – Access to a WhatsApp group, weekly training handouts, and an online video library to reinforce your dog’s scent training at home.
How to Get Started
Introduction to Scent Work – 2-Hour Workshop
Curious if scent work is right for your dog? This relaxed, friendly workshop is the perfect way to dip your toe in. You’ll learn the basics of how dogs detect scent, how we train them to search, and have a go with your own dog. No previous experience needed.
👉 Ideal for beginners
👉 Suitable for any pet dog
👉£35 for a 2 hour workshop
👉 Held at our private training venue near Johnshaven, Montrose
Weekly Scent Work Classes
Our weekly scent work classes run in 6-week blocks, progressing from foundation skills to advanced games and assessments. Classes are small and tailored to support both new teams and those already working on odour.
Block 1: Introduction to Odour
Your dog will learn to find and indicate the location of a hidden Kong or gun oil scent. This block builds motivation and creates the foundation for future scent work.
Block 2: Search Skills & ORT Prep
We focus on methodical searching, handler technique, and distraction-proofing—plus the skills needed to pass the National Nosework Association (NNA) Odour Recognition Test. A test is offered in the final week.
Learn more about the NNA
Block 3: Reliable Indication
This block strengthens your dog’s ability to give a clear, consistent, and reliable indication (e.g. freeze, stare, paw) when they’ve found the scent.
Block 4+: Nosework Games & Skill Awards
Each week focuses on a different one of the 12 Nosework Games, which build a wide range of scent work skills.
Discover Nosework Games
As you progress, you can take part in Nosework Games Skill Assessments, where each game is tested under relaxed but structured conditions. Completing 8 different games at the same level earns you a Nosework Games Skills Title, with rosettes and certificates available as rewards.
Other Ways to Get Involved
💬 1-to-1 Scent Work Training
Private scent work sessions tailored to your dog’s pace and learning style—ideal if your dog needs a quieter environment or you want focused support on specific skills.
🎯 Monthly Odour Recognition Test Sessions
Take your official NNA ORT with us in a supportive and familiar environment. Great for handlers ready to take the next step with their training.
🏅 Nosework Games Skill Assessments & Competitions
We offer regular assessment sessions and low-key competitions for anyone taking part in the Nosework Games—whether for fun, progression, or challenge.
Ready to get started?
Frequently Asked Question
Scentwork involves training your dog to use their nose to locate specific scents. This activity provides mental stimulation, increases focus and confidence, has a calming effect, and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It’s suitable for all dogs, regardless of age, breed, or ability.
Yes, Scentwork is ideal for reactive or nervous dogs. Our classes are structured so that dogs train one at a time, which minimizes stress and distractions. When not training, dogs are kept in their owner's car, ensuring a comfortable and controlled environment.
You should bring your dog’s favourite treats or toys as rewards, a leash, water, and a comfortable crate or setup in your car for when your dog is not training. It's also helpful to bring a notepad to jot down any tips or instructions.
Absolutely! Scent work is suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds, and abilities. Whether you have a young puppy, an older dog, a high-energy breed, or a more sedentary companion, Scent work offers a fun and rewarding experience for every dog.
We understand your concern. Rest assured, the cars are parked right next to the area where we are working, which is located down a private drive. This allows you to safely leave windows or doors open, as long as your dog is secured, ensuring they remain comfortable and safe. You are also welcome to wait with your dog between turns if that makes you feel more at ease. However, we do encourage you to watch the other dogs during their turns, as it can be very beneficial for your learning and understanding of Scentwork.
Got a question?
Get in contact with Laura.
Email: laura@lauracartercanines.com
WhatsApp: 07548 880298
Laura specialises in customising activities for dogs with restricted exercise and supporting owners through this challenge. Her mission is to ensure these dogs remain calm and content despite limited daily exercise, fostering enduring bonds between them and their owners through compassionate training methods.