Want to know more
about Scentwork UK?
A fun sport for you and your dog
Who are
Scentwork UK?
Scentwork UK is a national organisation for pet dogs and handlers in the competitive world of scent. Trials are run up and down the UK for anybody and any dog wanting to participate in scent competitions. There are currently 15 Levels in Scentwork UK starting off for absolute beginners all the way through to advanced levels.
To start in scentwork it is always recommended to find a qualified Scentwork UK trainer/instructor who will be able to teach you and your dog how to go about this exciting sport. Even if you didn’t want to compete just learning is an excellent way for you and your dog to work together and build amazing relationships. Scentwork has huge benefits, keeping that mental stimulation active is critical along with the physical and has proven to help dogs with behavourial issues, plus it’s great fun and we pretty much guarantee once you start you will become addicted. Dogs are trained on Clove, Gun Oil and Truffle, all information will be provided by your instructor, but always reach out to Justine who is Head of Scentwork UK.
To find out more contact Justine to learn more or take a look at the Scentwork UK website.
Scentwork for?
In one simple word, anyone! Many people have competed in many different dog sports and have turned to scentwork as either an extra activity or because their dogs are getting a little older and perhaps want to prevent injury in the other sports they compete in. Other people start right from the word go with their new puppy. But whatever your reason, everyone just loves scentwork and more importantly so does your four legged friend.
You can work through the levels reaching excellence in each level gaining a certain amount of points, or push through. However we do encourage competitors to make sure their pup really understands what they are doing, are comfortable working in different areas and are confident before rushing through, as it does get harder. We always say train more than trial, and in fairness training should be great fun.
At Just Dogs we run Scentwork UK trials and you can check out our trials on our trials page. Plus we run scent workshops to get you up and running as well as monthly scent clubs and experiences. Get in touch for more information.
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What if my dog is reactive?
This is why this sport is so great as it doesn’t matter if your dog is reactive and finds certain situations difficult as you compete together as a team with no other dogs around at that point. All trials will cater for dogs that are reactive, just let the trial manager know. As for training your trainer will work with you to give you space or work on a 1:1 basis just have a chat when you book up.
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What if my dog is old and has disabilities?
Scentwork is great for dogs that are slowing down, or have disabilities as they are working their nose and can do it at their own pace. In Scentwork UK we have dogs we only 3 lets competing and doing really well. Although each round has a set time, there is usually plenty of time to find everything. Most importantly is to get a clean sweep the time is secondary really.
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I don’t know how to get involved?
Several things to do, you can reach out to Justine Steele, Head of Scentwork UK. Justine is based in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and if you are local get in touch. You can also check out the Scentwork UK website where you can find a qualified trainer local to where you live and will happy to help you on your journey.
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Where do I find a qualified Trainer?
Once you have checked out Scentwork UK find a trainer, give them a call and ask about their training plans. Speak to them about any concerns you may have and ask if you can go and observe any training session before signing up. All the Scentwork UK Instructors have been through a comprehensive course and keep up-to-date with their professional development.
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Do I need any specific equipment?
It’s great to work your dog on a harness and have a long line especially when starting out, other than that no special equipment for the dog is necessary apart from their favourite toy. With regards to scent equipment depending on where you train, your trainer will provide everything you need to get started.
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How old does my dog need to be before I can start?
Once you have got puppy home and settled in you are going to want to do some training. Although there are always elements of scentwork you can do early with puppy, we suggest getting your puppy training done first, building a relationship is the most important thing to do, so spend time having fun. We recommend between the age of 6 to 12 months to start your training. But always speak to a qualified trainer first.
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How much does it cost?
You should expect to pay around £100 for a 1 day training workshop, but it all depends on how your trainer runs their training. It may be a weekly club and 1 or 2 day course etc... If you are wanting to compete with Scentwork UK Trials then you need to pay an annual subscription of £7.50 then each trial is around £30 to compete.
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What if I have any disabilities?
The same for our dogs, scentwork is great for those who may find it difficult to get around. Our aim is to have our dogs working independently, but to start we need to help them. Again work with your trainer who will support you and also get yourself a long line which will help. When competing just let you trial manager know of any needs and they will be able to assist.
Go to Scentwork UK website
Go to Just DOGS Scentwork Trials
