Scent Work
The ANKC Scent Work Trial Rules can be found here.
Extract from the Dogs Victoria Regulations regarding Scent Work effective 14 March 2022
Looking for something fun to do with your dog, that can be done in any weather and anywhere, and doesn't need any expensive equipment?
Scent Work is the ideal sport for dogs of all ages and abilities.
The sport of scent work is based on the task of working detection dogs to locate an odour and communicate to their handler that the odour has been found.
Detection is done in a variety of environments and often during changing weather or environmental conditions.
Scent Work is a positive, challenging activity that allows dogs of all ages the opportunity to use their strongest natural sense in a way that is fun, engaging, and builds and strengthens a foundation of trust between the handler and dog.
The commencement date for Scent Work in Victoria is the 1st of July 2020.
Handlers take their dogs through a search area which may be set up in a variety of environments (interior, exterior, containers and vehicles). Dogs are trained to recognise specific odours within minutes, and to alert their handlers when those odours are detected. They must work through multiple distractions, often in restricted and cluttered areas. The dog is rewarded immediately for an accurate indication. No obedience necessary!
Interested in becoming a Scent Work trainee judge? Click here to view the eligibility criteria.
Expressions of interest addressing the eligibility criteria should be submitted to the Scent Work committee at judy@sfa.edu.au by 5th January 2022.
SCENT WORK RULE REVIEW
The Scent Work Committee will be holding a meeting from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, 4th February 2023 at KCC Park in the German Shepherd Dog Rooms to discuss and vote on the Rule Review submissions. Please read the Submissions HERE and be prepared for discussions. Regional members (200+ km from Melbourne) may link into the Zoom meeting but there are limited spaces available. Please contact Judy Pillinger 0427 434667 or judy@sfa.edu.au for further information and Zoom link.