Scentwork for Dogs: Enrich their mind, build their confidence.
Fun, easy, rewarding sniff-based games for every kind of dog
What is Scentwork?
Scentwork (also called scent detection, nosework, or scent training) is a fast-growing dog sport that taps into your dog’s most powerful sense — their nose. It’s all about teaching your dog to search for and find a specific scent in a fun, structured way.
Think sniffer dogs at customs or with the police — but for fun, and for every dog!
Why try scentwork?
The benefits of scentwork for both you and your dog are massive. Here’s why it’s worth a go:
Amazing mental enrichment – it keeps your dog’s brain busy in the best way
Builds your bond – working as a team boosts your connection
Confidence-boosting – helps shy or nervous dogs feel braver
Dopamine boost – sniffing releases feel-good hormones
Tires them out – 15 minutes of scentwork can be as tiring as an hour-long walk
Great for all dogs – puppies, seniors, anxious dogs, reactive dogs, even blind or deaf dogs
Calms high-energy dogs – gives them a job to focus on
Reduces anxiety – problem-solving helps them feel more secure
You can play anywhere – at home, in the garden, on walks, indoors on rainy days
Scentwork is low-pressure, dog-led, and genuinely fun. You’ll be amazed how much your dog loves it.
What are we searching for?
It depends on what motivates your dog.
Toy lovers start with a catnip-scented toy — perfect for tug or fetch fans.
Foodies work with small bits of cheese — simple, tasty, and effective.
Either way, the skills are the same: follow the scent, solve the puzzle, get the reward!
Once we have a strong foundation in we can introduce new scents.
What makes our scentwork different?
At The Crafty Canine, we do things a little differently:
No need to commit to a 6-week course Come as often or as little as you like — it's all about fun.
Every session is 100% tailored to you and your dog Each one is a 45-minute 1-to-1 session with full coaching and support
Perfect for all dogs, including reactive, nervous, or recovering dogs We believe every dog deserves a chance to sniff, search and succeed — no pressure, no judgment, just a good time.
The Crafty Canine Scent work is all about building your dogs love to sniff and search. Using active searching and indications teamed with supportive handling ensures your dogs love every minute of the training!
Ready to give it a go?
Whether your dog’s a working breed looking for a job or a couch potato who needs some confidence, scentwork is a great way to connect, exercise and have fun together.
Book your 1-to-1 scentwork session now!
Tailored, welcoming, and perfect for every kind of nose.