- laura@lauracartercanines.co.uk
- 07548 880298
Scent work
Does your dog love to sniff?
Scent work is one of the most rewarding and accessible dog sports you can try. Every dog has an incredible sense of smell, and scent work gives them the chance to use it in a focused, structured, and fun way. It’s a sport that truly is for all dogs—young or old, nervous or confident, active or on limited exercise.
At Laura Carter Canines, I offer a full range of opportunities to get involved:
Introduction Workshops for complete beginners or owners who simply want to explore what scent work is all about
Weekly classes for all levels, helping you and your dog progress step by step
Specialist workshops focusing on key skills and search types
National Nosework Association ORT tests and trials, for those who want to measure progress and achieve recognised awards
Nosework Games Skill Awards, a fun and structured way to develop your dog’s abilities
Whatever your starting point, there’s a place for you and your dog in scent work—and I’d love to help you begin or continue your journey.
We are based near Johnshaven, Montrose, Scotland DD10 0HY, but use other venues too.
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
I also offer specialised Introduction to Scentwork workshops for specific groups of dogs. These sessions let you train alongside owners who share similar experiences, with the same friendly, supportive approach as the general workshop — just tailored to your dog’s needs.
Each workshop covers the same core skills but is adapted slightly in pace, structure, and setup. Some are a little longer to allow every dog plenty of individual working time.
🐾 Reactive Dogs – Calm, carefully managed environment with dogs working one at a time. Builds focus, confidence, and calm.
🐾 Puppies – Gentle, playful introduction to scentwork to encourage curiosity and focus.
🐾 Adolescents – Channelling teenage energy into calm, purposeful activity.
🐾 Spaniels – Harnessing natural drive and enthusiasm for structured searching.
All workshops are small, relaxed, and positive — the perfect way to learn, connect, and have fun together.
👉 Held at our private training venue near Johnshaven, Montrose
Please scroll down to the ‘Ready to get started?’ section below for dates and to book.
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 National Nosework Association Odour Recognition Test with us in a supportive and familiar environment. Great for handlers ready to take the next step with their training.
🏅 National Nosework Association Trials NNA trials are a fantastic way to put your training into practice and test your teamwork in a supportive, structured environment. Each trial includes a series of searches designed to assess your dog’s ability to locate odour and your skills as a handler.
🏅 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.