Scent Work Classes and Workshops in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries

If your dog enjoys using their nose and you’d like a structured, supportive way to build skills together, group classes and workshops offer a calm and rewarding place to start.

With small group sizes and thoughtful guidance, dogs can learn to focus, problem-solve, and work confidently at their own pace. Whether your dog is highly scent-driven, easily distracted, or simply loves to sniff and explore, these sessions are designed to build confidence, connection, and enjoyment for both dog and handler.

Classes are suitable for dogs of any age, breed, or experience level.

If you’d like to check availability or ask which class would suit your dog best, you’re very welcome to get in touch.

Who classes and workshops are for

Group scentwork classes and workshops can be a helpful next step for dogs who need more than just physical exercise, and for owners looking for a calm, structured activity to do together.

These sessions can be particularly helpful if:

Your dog has plenty of energy but struggles to settle afterwards
Your dog finds it hard to focus when there are mild distractions around
You’re looking for an activity that builds confidence without pressure
Your dog enjoys sniffing and exploring on walks
You’d like to strengthen teamwork and communication with your dog
You’re looking for something mentally stimulating but low-impact

You don’t need previous scentwork experience. Many dogs discover how much they enjoy scent work once they’re given the opportunity to try it.

Group sessions are designed to be calm and supportive, with small numbers and plenty of space between dogs so each team can work comfortably.

If your dog finds group environments overwhelming, starting with
1:1 sessions may be a more comfortable first step.

Weekly Group Classes

Classes run in small groups of no more than four dog-and-handler teams, ensuring individual attention and steady progression.

Tuesday – Scent Discovery (Dumfries, 6:00pm)

A structured Scentwork class focused on building focus, problem-solving, and confidence in a calm environment. This class is booked through Track & Trail Canine Outfitters.

Full details and booking are available via their website.

Wednesday – Scent Sports (6:00pm & 7:00pm)

These sessions focus on structured Scent Sports activities including Kong Search, Scent Match, and Catnip Retrieve. Dogs build skills gradually through games and scent challenges while working at a pace that suits them.

book scent sports

Thursday – Find It! Foundations (6:30pm)

This class focuses on passive searching skills and thoughtful scent engagement, progressing into searches in a variety of environments.

Classes take place at Dumfries, Chapelknowe Village Hall, a private secure field in Chapelknowe (DG14) or other local venues on occasion. Sessions last between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

book find it foundations

Scent Sports Workshops

If you’re not ready to commit to weekly classes, workshops are a great place to start.

These 2-hour sessions give you the opportunity to try different scent sports in a relaxed, supportive setting. You and your dog can explore Kong Search, Scent Match, and Catnip Retrieve while discovering what your dog enjoys most.

Workshops are ideal if you:

Want to try scent sports before committing to classes
Have a dog who would benefit from a longer session
Simply enjoy learning something new together

Numbers are kept small to maintain a calm working environment and ensure each team receives guidance and support.

Not sure which class or workshop is the right fit?

Get in touch and I’ll help you choose the best starting point for you and your dog.

book a free call

The biggest measure of these sessions isn’t just what happens in class, it’s what changes afterwards.

Here’s what some of the Scent work teams have shared:

What clients say:

“I’m always looking for different things to try with my dog Stella (4-year-old Border Collie). We joined Krysia’s scent class after trying her ‘have a go’ scent stall at a dog event. Stella thoroughly enjoys her scent work. As a dog who does everything 100mph, scent work has really helped her slow down and focus. The groups are small, so you never feel forgotten, and Krysia provides detailed, personalised recaps after each session.”

– Stef

“Bug, my 9-year-old Border Terrier, had become a bit despondent after losing her older companion. We started a block of four scent work classes and Bug took to it immediately. She now loves her classes, is more confident, and comes to me asking to ‘play the games.’ Scent work has given her a new lease of life!”

– Fiona

“Dylan, our 4-year-old rehomed Welsh Springer Spaniel, struggled to switch off. The classes have helped him become calmer and more focused, and I’ve gained confidence in guiding him. The small, friendly groups and Krysia’s personalised approach mean that every dog’s needs are considered. We are hooked!”

– Ruth

“I would absolutely recommend Scentwork classes with Krysia. I never imagined it would make such a difference to Eddie’s life, he absolutely loves his classes, it’s helped him from being a reactive anxious rescue dog, to becoming confident in a class with other dogs, and being absolutely worn out from all that thinking and sniffing! This has also improved our daily walks as he is more focused on me, and hardly reactive at all now, at home we use his training to improve his daytime enrichment and I’ve learnt so many ideas to help with problem solving to burn off energy, he is a much calmer dog now x if you are thinking of just trying this out I would absolutely say contact Krysia as it will completely change your dogs life for the better.”

– Liz

FAQ about Scent Work workshops in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries

Thinking about getting in touch but not quite sure yet? These are the questions most people ask before they book – have a read and see if it helps.

Where do classes take place?

Track & Trail Canine Outfitters in Dumfries, Chapelknowe Village Hall or a private secure field also in Chapelknowe, DG14

Can I bring more than one dog?

There is usually one handler and one dog in my classes.

How do I book?

Booking is done via email or book a free call.

How long are the classes?

45mins – 1hr depending on the class.

How do I know which class is best for us?

If you are unsure it would be best to book a call for us to discuss the class options.

When are your classes?

Currently Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings.

How many dogs do you have in a class?

No more than 4 per class.

I'm not sure my dog is suited to a class, how do we work that out?

Booking a free initial call would be best; then we can discuss what options would be best for you and your dog.

Unsure where to begin?

If you’re unsure whether a class environment is the right fit for your dog, you’re always welcome to get in touch to talk things through.

Some dogs benefit from a 1:1 introduction before joining a group, and we can decide together what feels most appropriate.

Current availability and booking details are shared via my Facebook page. You can book directly on my booking page

Tuesday’s Dumfries class is booked directly through Track & Trail Canine Outfitters.