Why Every Dog Should Try Scentwork - Not Just Working Breeds

Scentwork isn't just for working dogs! Discover how all breeds - from Cockapoos to Collies can benefit from using their nose to build focus, confidence and calm.

Scentwork is an inclusive activity

When most people hear the word 'scentwork' they imagine police dogs, gundogs or search and rescue dogs. But every dog has an incredible nose, and every dog can enjoy scentwork.

Whether you live with a lively Labrador, a clever Cockapoo or a Gentle greyhound, scentwork offers mental enrichment, confidence building, and a deeper bond between you and your dog.

Why scentwork isn't just for working breeds

Seraphina, the lovely Whippet learning to search for the scent of cloves in a recent workshop

Working breeds like Spaniels, Labradors and Beagles were bred for scent based tasks - but the instinct to sniff and explore is in every dog. A dogs sense of smell is their superpower - it's how they explore and make sense of the world around them.

The part of a dog's brain devoted to smell is 40 times larger than ours, and they have up to 300 million scent receptors (vs our 6 million).

So even your sofa loving companion is wired to enjoy scent based activities.

The benefits of scentwork for all dogs:

• Mental stimulation

  • Scentwork gives your dog a job that's rewarding and mentally tiring - perfect for high energy dogs who need focus or calmer breeds who enjoy gentle engagement

• Confidence building

  • For nervous or reactive dogs, scentwork can be life changing. Searching helps them use their brain and body in a calm, positive way, boosting confidence in unfamiliar environments.

• Improved focus and calmness

  • Sniffing lowers the heart rate and reduces stress hormones. Many owners notice their dogs become more relaxed after a session - even more so than after a long walk!

• Bonding and communication

  • Scentwork strengthens your teamwork. It teaches you to read your dog's body language and celebrate small wins together.

How to get started with scentwork

No fancy equipment required! Just start with:

• A few treats

• Some cardboard boxes or containers

• A quiet room

Hide the treat inside a box, give your dog a cue like "find it" and celebrate their success. Keep it fun, short and positive.

If your dog enjoys it (which they will!), you can build up to more complex searches or join a class for guided learning.

Scentwork for companion dogs

Even if your dog never competes or formally works, scentwork provides essential enrichment that every dog deserves. It's especially valuable for:

• Puppies learning to focus and build confidence

• Senior dogs needing low impact activity

• Rescue dogs adjusting to new homes

• Reactive or anxious dogs who need calm, positive outlets

Ready to give it a go?

At Super - Nova Dog Training & Behaviour I offer both 1:1 sessions and group workshops designed to cater for all breeds, ages and personalities.

Based in Bournemouth, Fordingbridge and surrounding areas. Suitable for beginners - no prior experience needed.

Book a scentwork session today at: https://www.super-novadogtraining.co.uk/contact-8

or follow me on social media for scentwork tips, events and training ideas.

Shining a light on calm, confidence and connection - kindly trained, truly trusted