- 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.
Introduction to Scent Work
2 hour workshop
Held at Damside House, Johnshaven. DD10 0HY
£40 per dog
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. DD10 0HY
£40 per dog
Click on a date below to book
Weekly Scent Work Classes
1 hour weekly class
Held at Damside House, Johnshaven. DD10 0HY
£120 per dog for 6 sessions
Whether you’re looking for a fun new activity to enjoy with your dog or fancy seeing where scentwork could take you, everyone starts by building the right foundations.
Classes are kept small, with a maximum of 4 dogs, so there’s plenty of individual support for you and your dog.
Although each block includes six sessions, they don’t necessarily run for six consecutive weeks. At the beginning of each block, the group will agree the dates for all six sessions. Your class will stay on the same day and at the same time, but we can include gaps for holidays and useful practice weeks between sessions.
If you already know there are dates you can’t attend, please let me know in advance so these can be considered when the group agrees the schedule.
Block 1: Scentwork Foundations
Complete beginners start here.
Block 1 introduces you and your dog to scentwork from the very beginning. Your dog will learn to search for and recognise specific scents, including Kong and gun oil, while you learn how to support them during a search.
We’ll build motivation, introduce searching skills and begin teaching your dog how to locate the source of an odour and show you when they’ve found it.
No previous scentwork or training experience is needed.
Block 2: Developing Your Scentwork
Once you’ve completed Block 1, it’s time to take those foundations further.
We’ll develop your dog’s searching and indication skills, introduce more challenging searches and help you become more confident at reading your dog and handling them during a search.
We’ll also work towards the skills required for the National Nosework Association Odour Recognition Test (ORT), opening the door to competitive scentwork if that’s something you’d like to explore.
Please WhatsApp Laura on 07548 880298 to join a Block 2 course
Nosework Games
After completing Block 2, you can progress into our ongoing Nosework Games sessions.
Here you’ll put all those foundation skills into practice through a variety of searches and challenges. Nosework Games includes 12 different games designed to develop different aspects of scentwork and keep things interesting for both you and your dog.
You can come along simply because you both love scentwork, or work towards Nosework Games Skill Assessments and Titles, with rosettes and certificates available as you progress.
Please WhatsApp Laura on 07548 880298 to join a Nosework Games course
Behind the Nose – The Scentwork Sessions
For anyone who has ever watched their dog sniffing and wondered what on earth is going on inside that nose.
If you already do scentwork, you’ll know how addictive it can become. Suddenly you find yourself wondering about airflow, scent movement, indications and why your dog sailed past something you were absolutely certain they should have found!
Scentwork uncovered is our monthly evening for getting properly nerdy about scentwork – but in a friendly, accessible way.
Each month we’ll pick a different subject and explore it together. We might look at how scent moves, what your dog is telling you while they search, indications, handling, problem solving, search environments or how to tackle more challenging searches.
Bring your questions. Bring the problems you’ve encountered in training. Bring the things you’ve always wondered about.
You don’t need to be an experienced scentwork handler either. If you’ve only just started, are thinking about trying scentwork or are simply fascinated by what dogs can do with their noses, you’ll fit right in.
Coffee, cake and an evening talking scentwork with other people who won’t think you’re odd for being fascinated by how a dog sniffs a wall.
Please note, these sessions are for humans only (no dogs)
Tuesday 8th September 6.30pm
What is Scent?
We ask our dogs to find scent, but what exactly are they searching for? This month we’ll explore what scent actually is, how dogs detect it and why understanding the basics can completely change the way you think about your dog’s searches.
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.