What is scent work?

Scent work (nose work) teaches the dog to detect and indicate a target odor (e.g. clove, tea, hydrosol) in various environments: boxes, rooms, objects, outdoors… We use positive methods, focusing on motivation and the dog’s autonomy.

Benefits

• 🧠 Healthy mental fatigue: the dog thinks, searches, and discriminates odors.
• 💪 Confidence & autonomy: the dog takes initiative and succeeds.
• 😌 Calming effect: a quiet activity, helpful for sensitive or reactive dogs (within an adapted framework).
• 🎯 Focus: improves concentration and self-control.
• 🌿 Accessible to all ages and sizes, with no physical strain.

How a session works

After an olfactory warm-up, the target odor is introduced and positively associated (imprinting). Searches begin with boxes or simple hides, then progress to more complex areas (height, varied objects, indoor/outdoor). The dog learns a passive indication (freezing, marking the odor), and every success is reinforced.

• Individualized progression (pace, difficulty, distractions).
• Kind management of motivation, breaks, and frustration.
• Short searches: quality > quantity to preserve enthusiasm.

Who is it for?

• ✅ Puppies (adapted setups and very short sessions)
• ✅ Adults and seniors (a gentle, rewarding activity)
• ✅ Dogs in recovery: with veterinary approval
• ✅ Teams wishing to improve focus and relationship

Equipment & safety

• 🧰 Boxes, hides, cotton pads / scent containers, high-value rewards.
• 🚰 Regular breaks, access to water, no irritating substances.
• 🕊️ Always positive reinforcement, with no force or pressure.

Objectives

To highlight the dog’s natural skills, develop confidence, motivation, and autonomy, while creating a shared moment of success and connection.

Practical information

• 📍 Margeride (Lozère) — Indoor and/or outdoor sessions depending on weather.
• 👥 Individual or small-group sessions, beginner to advanced levels.
• 📝 Target odors provided — you may suggest a reference odor if needed.