Fun Scent Work Dog Training in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries
Build calm focus, confidence, and connection through scent work — for dogs who need to think, move, and use their nose.
If your dog has plenty of energy but struggles to switch off, loses focus easily, or lacks confidence in new situations, traditional activities don’t always meet their needs.
Scent work gives dogs a chance to use the skill they rely on most – their nose, in a way that is mentally stimulating, calming, and deeply rewarding.
As dogs learn to search and problem-solve, handlers learn to read their dog more clearly, creating calmer teamwork and stronger trust.
Scent work is ideal for
It’s often helpful for:
- Dogs who have plenty of energy but struggle to settle afterwards
- Dogs who lack confidence or feel unsure in new situations
- Dogs who become easily distracted or find it hard to focus
- Dogs who feel overwhelmed in busy environments
- Dogs recovering from illness or injury who need low-impact enrichment
- Dogs who enjoy problem-solving and working independently
Dogs of all ages, breeds, and abilities can enjoy scent work. Sessions are adapted to suit each dog’s confidence level, learning style, and pace.
If your dog would thrive with a structured outlet for their energy, explore the scent work options below or book a free initial call to get started.
What’s involved
Scentwork taps into the way dogs naturally experience the world; through scent. Scent work allows dogs to use those instincts in a structured, rewarding way. Through carefully designed search activities, dogs learn to solve problems, work independently, and communicate clearly with their handler.
Handlers learn to observe more closely, recognise subtle body language, and support their dog’s decisions without pressure. The result is calm, thoughtful teamwork built on trust.
As an accredited United Canine Scent Sports (UCS) Instructor, I deliver training to a recognised standard, always prioritising welfare, clarity, and positive learning experiences.
In sessions we can explore up to three scent sports:
Kong Search teaches dogs to locate a hidden Kong and clearly indicate when they’ve found it, encouraging focus and careful searching while maintaining connection.
Scent Match develops problem-solving skills by teaching dogs to take a scent from one item, search for the same scent elsewhere, and confidently indicate the correct match, often boosting self-belief as dogs learn to trust their own decisions.
Catnip Retrieve combines scent work with retrieving for dogs who enjoy carrying items back to their handler, adding another layer of engagement and teamwork.
Intro to Scentwork Session – £60
Some dogs benefit from a quieter introduction. I offer individual sessions either at my training location or in your own home, tailored entirely to your dog’s pace and personality. These sessions are ideal for dogs who feel overwhelmed in busy settings, are easily distracted, or simply thrive with individual attention.
You can begin with a one-off Intro to Scent Work session or choose a structured package to build skills progressively over several weeks.
If you’re interested in getting started, the first step is a free initial call so we can decide together on the most suitable option.
Support Through Scent Programme
A 12-week behaviour support journey
Often, progress begins with helping a dog reach a calm enough state to be able to learn and cope more comfortably with the world around them.
Scent Support uses carefully introduced scent work to guide dogs into a calmer, thinking space. From this place, they are better able to process their environment, feel more secure, and engage more successfully with everyday situations that may previously have felt challenging.
Over the weeks, we use scent work as a foundation to support behavioural progress, allowing dogs to slow down, think, and make different choices while building confidence alongside their guardian.
A level of consistency and commitment throughout the programme helps these new skills settle and become meaningful in real-world situations, with ongoing support from me so you never feel you’re managing things alone.
What’s included:
- 12 × 60-minute sessions to be completed within 16 weeks
- Email recaps after each session
- Ongoing WhatsApp support
- 30-minute follow-up call
Dogs do not need previous scentwork experience to take part, many begin as complete beginners. Dogs who have already explored scentwork are equally welcome, with sessions adapted to suit their individual experience.
For many guardians, Scent Support brings a deeper understanding of their dog, creating a calmer way forward and strengthening the relationship between dog and guardian as progress develops together.
If you feel this level of structured, ongoing support may be right for you and your dog, the first step is a free initial call so we can explore whether Scent Support feels like the right fit.
Classes & Workshops
If you’d like to see what’s currently running, you can view upcoming classes and workshops below or get in touch to talk through the most suitable starting point.
Progression
If you enjoy working towards structured goals, there is the option to progress through United Canine Scent Sports levels over time. Many teams, however, simply take part for the enrichment, connection, and enjoyment scent work brings.
Scent work is mentally stimulating while remaining low-impact physically, making it suitable for most dogs, including those recovering from illness or injury. It can be particularly beneficial for dogs who need constructive mental stimulation, confidence building, or a calmer focus around their handler.
Harvey is a different dog since scent work!
Harvey is a different dog since completing the 1:1 scent work beginners! A much happier dog! Would highly recommend.”
– Linda
My dogs are loving scent work!
I would recommend anyone speak with her for training- she’s incredibly patient and clearly knows her stuff!
My dogs are loving scentwork and are having a great time learning it. I can’t wait to do more as their skills improve.”
– Liss
FAQ about scent work in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries
What are Scent Sports?
What's the difference between Scent Sports, Scent Detection & Scent Support?
Do you only offer classes?
My Scent Support programme is 1:1 only, as it combines scent work and behavioural support in a way that is tailored carefully to each dog.
Can you come to my home for this?
Scent work can be introduced and developed very effectively at home and we can discuss what setup would work best for you and your dog.
How does this help my dog?
Many dogs become more relaxed and balanced in everyday life and guardians often notice improved engagement, connection, and teamwork with their dog.
Can I speak with you to discuss how scentwork might help us?
Yes, absolutely. I’m always happy to chat and there’s no pressure. This is just a chance to explore whether scentwork could be a good fit for your dog.
You can book a free 30-minute initial call, and we’ll talk through your dog’s needs, your goals and how a programme or class could support you both in a calm, positive way.
How do I book?
Sessions are booked via email.
How long are the sessions?
Ready to make a start?
A free 30-minute discovery call is the easiest way to find out if I’m the right fit for you and your dog. No pressure, no commitment, just a relaxed chat about where you are and where you’d like to be.
