Intermediate K9 Nose Work 

Intermediate K9 Nose Work®

continue your dogs skills

Intermediate K9 Nose Work® continues the journey by using progressivly more advanced shaping techniques to encourage stronger hunting, increase confidence and build value as the enrichment source with you involved. We also work on your leash/lead handling, yes the Intro class was all about your dog, now it’s time to work on those leash mechanics on your end of the lead. With a little more knowledge comes a little more responsibility spiderman 😊
After your introduction to K9 Nose Work® I’m sure you will enjoy building these new skills and your dog will too.

Intermediate K9 Nose Work: Building Confidence Through Problem-Solving

As dogs progress in K9 Nose Work, intermediate training introduces more complex search environments, requiring advanced problem-solving skills. This stage builds upon foundational skills, challenging dogs with elevated hides, multiple odor sources, and varied search areas such as vehicles, outdoor spaces, and interiors with obstacles. By gradually increasing difficulty, dogs learn persistence, adaptability, and independence, all of which boost their confidence.
Introducing scent puzzles—such as inaccessible hides, shifting air currents, or odor trapped in unique containers—encourages dogs to refine their search strategies. As they overcome these challenges, they develop problem-solving abilities that translate beyond Nose Work, helping them navigate real-world scenarios with greater self-assurance.
For dogs struggling with fear, reactivity, or anxiety, intermediate Nose Work provides a structured yet rewarding outlet where success is self-driven. This empowerment fosters resilience, enhances focus, and deepens the dog-handler bond, making K9 Nose Work a transformative experience for both dog and handler.