A mentally engaging scent detection sport that any dog can do — and almost every dog loves.
The Sport That Lets Your Dog Be a Dog
A dog’s nose is extraordinary. Depending on the breed, a dog’s sense of smell is estimated to be 10,000 to 100,000 times more powerful than a human’s. Nosework is the sport that finally puts that superpower to work.
Modeled after the detection work performed by professional scent detection dogs, K9 Nosework teaches your dog to search for and identify specific target odors hidden in containers, rooms, vehicles, and outdoor environments. It’s a game to your dog — a deeply satisfying, instinct-driven hunt — but the mental and behavioral benefits are profound.
Dogs who do Nosework regularly are noticeably calmer, more focused, and more fulfilled. A single Nosework session can tire a high-energy dog far more effectively than a long walk, because it engages the brain at the deepest level.
Who Is Nosework For?
One of the things that makes Nosework genuinely special is that it works for every dog. Unlike agility or obedience competitions, there are no physical requirements, no prerequisite training levels, and no minimum age beyond four months. Dogs work the search area independently, one at a time, so there’s no pressure from other dogs and no social dynamic to navigate.
If you’ve ever watched your dog sniff their way through a walk and wished you could channel that drive into something purposeful — this is that thing.
Nosework is particularly well suited for:
Three Levels of Nosework at Canine Learning Centers
Canine Learning Centers offers a progressive three-level Nosework program, taking dogs from their very first search experience all the way through advanced scent detection challenges.
Nosework 1 — Intro to Search
The starting point for every Nosework dog. In this class your dog learns the fundamental game — searching for and finding hidden rewards in containers and simple environments. The focus at this level is building your dog’s drive to search, developing your handling and observation skills, and establishing the partnership that more advanced Nosework depends on.
Every dog works the search area independently during class, which means your dog gets their own focused time to work without distraction. You’ll be amazed at how quickly even the most uncertain dogs find their confidence once they discover the game.
Nosework 2 — Intro to Odor
Once your dog has the search drive and the fundamentals in place, Nosework 2 introduces the next layer: target odors. In this class your dog learns to identify three specific essential oil scents — the same odors used in official K9 Nosework competition — and locate them across four search environments: containers, interiors, vehicles, and exterior searches.
This is where the game really opens up. The searches become more complex, the hides more challenging, and the teamwork between you and your dog deepens considerably. Most dogs who complete Nosework 1 are eager to keep going — and Nosework 2 rewards that enthusiasm.
Nosework Advanced — Building Skills & Teamwork
For dogs who have moved through the introductory levels and are ready for more challenging searches, the Advanced class continues to build on everything your dog has learned. Hides become more complex, environments more varied, and the handling partnership between dog and owner is refined to a high level.
This is a continuation class — the goal is depth, not repetition. Dogs who reach this level have genuinely developed a skill set that reflects months of consistent, rewarding work together.
Class Details & Pricing
These classes are not for aggressive or reactive dogs. Not sure if your dog is aggressive or reactive? Read this first!
Nosework 1
- Who it’s for: Dogs 4 months and up. No prior training required
- Format: Four consecutive weekly sessions, one hour each
- Investment: $250
Nosework 2
- Who it’s for: Dogs who have completed Nosework 1 at Canine Learning Centers
- Format: Four consecutive weekly sessions, one hour each session
- Investment: $250
Nosework Advanced
- Who it’s for: Dogs who have completed Nosework 2 at Canine Learning Centers
- Format: Four consecutive weekly sessions, one hour each session
- Investment: $250
New to Canine Learning Centers? An initial one-hour private lesson with Laura is required before joining Nosework. It’s the best way to make sure you and your dog hit the ground running.
All Nosework classes are non-refundable. No make-ups or transfers available.Bring plenty of high-value treats!
Why Take Nosework Classes With Laura Christiansen?
Laura has been training dogs in Carlsbad and North County San Diego for over 30 years and was named National Trainer of the Year at the 61st Annual Show Dogs of the Year. Her approach to Nosework reflects the same positive, relationship-centered philosophy she brings to every class — building confidence, rewarding natural instincts, and creating a training experience that dogs genuinely enjoy.
Because each dog works independently during class, Laura can observe each team closely and give you the specific feedback that makes the difference between a dog who searches adequately and one who searches brilliantly.
Ready to Start Searching?
Nosework 1 is open to any dog four months and up with no prior training required. It’s one of the most accessible classes we offer — and one of the most rewarding. Spots fill quickly so check the schedule and reserve your place today.
Continue the Teamwork!
Nosework pairs beautifully with almost any other class in the Canine Learning Centers curriculum. It’s a natural complement to obedience training and an excellent outlet for dogs who have completed Freedom Unleashed and are looking for a new way to challenge themselves. Many owners find that Nosework improves their dog’s focus and responsiveness across the board — the mental engagement carries over.
Agility
Jumps, tunnels, weave poles — and a dog that’s having the time of their life. A great next step for energetic dogs and motivated owners.
Canine Good Citizen
The gold standard in dog manners. Earn your dog’s official AKC CGC certification and prove to the world what a great team you’ve become.
