Intro to ScenTwork Training Workshops
What to Expect: These 4 day Introduction to Scent work Training workshops will demonstrate how operant conditioning using the power of the marker and food reinforcement can be used to shape your dog’s searching behavior. Only one dog trains at a time! Once the dog has learned how to search in our drawer and file box training centre, your dog will be rewarded with high value treats, for locating the target odor of three essential oils (wintergreen, Pine and thyme). Soon, you and your dogs will be enjoying the game of Sport Detection!
Training Centre or Venue: Your location should have 1 large room minimum 800 Sq ft. Only one dog trains at a time so the students should have easy access to enter and exit as well as a place to rest their dog in between turns. 6 dogs maximum per half day Session. Minimum 6 runs per dog team each 1/2 day session. A viewing area to observe the other students dogs would be ideal but not essential
This program is only offered in British Columbia at this time
Session 1 - Day 1
Leash handling
Introducing your dog to Searching for Reward (Where to Go!)
Promoting Dog Independence & Fun!
Understanding how Conditioned reinforcers (Markers) and Primary reinforcers (food reward) apply to Scent Detection
Archer gets it!
Session 1 - Day 2
Review of Day 1 Skills
Introducing the “Paired” box (Food + target odor)
Timing the Mark so your dog understands what we want (What to do!)
The Food Reward Technique!
Penny is locked in!
Session 2 - Day 3
Review of Day 2 Skills
Introduce “Search!” command
Moving the Paired box high & Low
Practice marking & Food Reward Technique
Switch to Target Odor (when the dog is ready)
Start of the “Freeze” indication technique
Edith has got a freeze!
Session 2 - Day 4
Review of Day 3 skills
Reinforce Marking & Food Reward Technique
“Freeze” reinforcement techniques
Your first “blind”! if you and your dog are ready
How to train at home
Q & A