Nosework 101

(8-Week Course)  

Over eight weeks, you and your dog will build a rock-solid foundation in odor detection using the NACSW “big three” (birch, anise, clove). We’ll cover marker training, drive-building, distraction proofing, tube work, and finish with vertical scent-wall searches. Small classes (max 4 teams) ensure individualized coaching.  

Weekly Schedule

Week 1

  • • Clicker/marker setup — ensure each team’s marker is “charged”  

    • Intro to birch, anise & clove odors  

    • Pair each odor with marker & reward  

Week 2

  • • Strengthen drive for target odors  

    • Repeat pairing exercises under handler movement  

    • Establish clear, repeatable indication behavior  

Weeks 3 & 4

  • • Introduce non-target “distractor” odors (food, toys) in tubes  

    • Proof true odor response amid distractions  

    • Prevent mimicry—teach “find the odor,” not follow cues  

Weeks 5 & 6

  • • Nose-to-tube targeting drills  

    • Increase hide complexity (depth, placement)  

    • Sharpen handler timing & communication  

Weeks 7 & 8

  • • Vertical wall hides at nose height  

    • Multiple hides for high-frequency work  

    • Build pattern consistency & clean finishes  

By the end of week 8,

you will be able to:  

1. Set up and charge your marker/clicker for odor work  

2. Reliably pair and proof birch, anise & clove under distraction  

3. Run focused tube searches with increasing complexity  

4. Execute vertical scent-wall searches with precision  

5. Read and reinforce your dog’s true odor indication  

Class Logistics

Duration:

8 weekly sessions

60 minutes each  

Class size:

Max 4 dog/handler teams  

Location:

Impactful Canine Training

Huntsville, AL  

Prerequisites:

Basic clicker or verbal marker training and foundational obedience (sit/stay) 

Classes taught by certified Human Remains Detection (HRD) K-9 Handler for Search and Rescue