Scent Work Classes
Get started in the sport your dog has been waiting for.
Conveniently located near Asheville, Greenville, and Spartanburg.
Training covers all the elements of AKC Scent Work, NACSW Nose Work and Performance Scent Dog.
Competition, confidence, and fun; it’s all the same effective training.
Group Classes
The training classes last 1-1.5 hours. The dog’s work one at a time flowing through a work, rest, work pattern. This allows each team to have multiple mini private sessions that foster maximum learning for the dog. Students watch the other dogs working, which increases the observation skills of the handler necessary for understanding scent theory. The whole class learns from each other, creating a supportive team and cheerleading section.
Dogs will be be kept in their cars or crated in a separate area. allowing each dog to feel safe and be free from excess distractions. If your dog cannot be crated, please talk to us about other options.
Training Methods and Philosophy
Our primary goal is to cultivate a positive, uplifting and supportive environment for all humans and canines that join us. Classes are conducted according to ethical guidelines of humane practices defined and embraced by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. We believe that physical corrections are not necessary to communicate with our canine partners. As such, when the dogs are working we do not allow choke collars, slip collars, prong collars, or any other devices designed to control, modify, or impact behavior through discomfort, pain, punishment, or negative reinforcement. Shock collars are not allowed anywhere on the property. I will be happy to discuss this with you in advance of class and find alternative methods for controlling your dog.
Foundations – The ABC’s of Scent Work
These classes focus on laying strong scent work foundation skills for dog and handler. These skills are essential building blocks that will set you up for success. Your dog will be building enthusiasm for the hunt, independent problem solving, and confidence. You will be learning to read your dog and interpret the scent picture, along with handling basics.
Teams complete two rounds of Foundations before moving on to competition prep skills.
Class is 6 weekly sessions, and are held at our farm right off of I-26. Conveniently located to Asheville, Greenville, and Spartanburg.
Cost: $170
*Dogs must be comfortable crating near other dogs*
New class starting late April. Contact me for an application.
allison@foothillscanineacademy.com
Because of my class schedule and weekend scent work events, I have limited office hours. I typically respond within 5-7 business days.
Online Training Options
Can’t join an in-person class? No need to miss out on the fun. You can continue to prepare for trials through online options. Since an essential skill in Scent Work is observation, elevate your skills by recording your training sessions and have them reviewed in detail with our experienced eye.
Video Review
This option is great for:
- Trial videos: Discover WHY you didn’t qualify. Improve your handling skills and your ability to read your dog. Learn tips to improve your searches.
- Training videos: Get coaching with handling, learning to read your dog working, and setting up better search scenarios.
For all levels of NACSW or AKC Scent Work.
Video Review: File of your search narrated and notated. Videos turned in using Google Drive or Drop Box. Review is typically 30 minutes long.
Cost: $20 (maximum 3-minute search).
Video Conference + Video Review: A 30 minute consult live while we go over your video review.
Cost: $40 (maximum 3-minute search).
Check out an example review: https://youtu.be/C__PCinjKsc
Email Allison@FoothillsCanineAcademy.com to schedule.
Advanced Classes
Once your dog is working the three competition odors in all the elements, you will join our Advanced classes. Here are just a few of the benefits you’ll have waiting for you.
Training Community
You’ll be invited to our private Community training page. Here we share extra tips, training exercises, video reviews and more. Students can share their training and trial videos for instructor feedback.
Search Class Access
You’ll be eligible to join our on-the-road search classes. These drop-in sessions are held at off site locations, mimicking real trial type searches.
Special Events & Workshops
As an FCA Alumni, you’ll recieve first dibbs on tickets for special events, workshops and mock trials.
