Scent Work Classes

Scent Work Class

K9 Nose Work®

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K9 Nose Work® Scent Detection Training 

Unleash Your Dog’s Natural Instincts Through Scent Work

Our K9 Nose Work classes are designed to be mentally enriching for your dog while remaining low-impact for the handler. Whether you’re exploring a fun new hobby or preparing for competition, we have the right class for you.

All classes are overseen by Jessica Fritschi, Certified Nose Work Instructor.

Training Pathway

Step 1: Start Here

Introduction to Scent Work: Learn to Hunt

Our beginner-friendly scent work course builds a strong drive for your dog’s natural sniffing and searching abilities. Using food rewards, dogs will learn to solve progressively challenging odor puzzles, laying the groundwork for future scent detection sports.

📍 Location: 428 Zimmerman St., North Tonawanda, NY 14120
🕒 Schedule: 6-week session
💰 Cost: $185

➡️ Prerequisite for all other K9 Nose Work classes

Step 2: Next Level

Level 2: Pairing Puzzles

  • Introduction to NACSW target odors: Birch, Anise, and Clove

  • Focus on Container and Interior search elements

  • 6-week session | $185

➡️ Prerequisite for Level 3: Foundational Skill Building

Step 3: Build Core Skills

Level 3: Foundational Skill Building

Build and strengthen core scent work skills through structured search challenges, handler coaching, and increasing environmental complexity. Focus on problem-solving, observation skills, and teamwork.

➡️ Prerequisite for Drop-in classes, Pop-ups, and Element-Specific classes

Step 4: Expand Your Training Options

NW Drop-in: Continuing Odor Puzzles

  • Advanced handling and problem-solving with odor puzzles

  • Each class may focus on a different odor puzzle or specific element skill

  • Includes our monthly “Pop-Up” class where teams practice at different offsite locations

Flexible pricing:

  • Drop-in: $35/class

  • 6-class pass: $185

  • 12-class pass: $350

Class passes can also be used for Nose Work Pop-up classes.

Purchase a class pass HERE
Learn how to purchase and apply class passes HERE

Element-Specific Classes

Deep-dive into one element at a time with our focused 5-week courses:

  • Interiors

  • Exteriors

  • Vehicles

  • Containers

A great way to set strong foundations and progress to advanced odor puzzles in each search environment.

Themed Sniff Thrus

Bring some extra fun to your dog’s training with our themed Sniff Thru events! These special opportunities often coincide with holidays or community happenings and may take place at our facility or unique offsite locations. Each Sniff Thru offers a chance for you and your dog to enjoy creative search setups in a relaxed, supportive environment.

🐾 Who can attend? Any dog on odor is welcome to join the fun!

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Our Certified Nose Work Instructors

Jessica Fritschi LVT, CDBC, CNWI, CPDT-KA

Jessica is a Certified Nose Work Instructor and has 10+ years in competing and instructing K9 Nose Work, or Scent Detection training. She competed in the Elite level of NACSW with her dog, Greedo before he passed in 2023. She also titled her deaf and blind dog, Imwe, earning their ORT. Jessica currently competes with her youngest dog, Ahsoka, earning her ORT, NW1, NW2 and is prepping to begin the NW3 journey! Jessica loves teaching others about this fun and enriching dog sport! She currently teaches the advanced level classes as well as our offsite pop-ups and other fun sniffy events.

Cheryl Kuntz CPDT-KA

Cheryl is a Certified Dog Trainer with experience in both K9 Nose Work and Happy Ratters. She teaches our Happy Ratters drop-in classes and Intro to Nose Work sessions under the guidance of Certified Nose Work Instructor, Jessica. Cheryl and her dog, Kramer, have earned titles in both sports and love sharing the joy of scent detection with new teams. Her calm, supportive approach helps dogs build confidence and have fun while learning to hunt!

🏅 Ready to Take Your Scent Work Skills to the Next Level?

For students interested in trialing or competing in scent detection sports, there are several popular organizations where you can showcase your dog’s sniffing talents. These organizations host trials, offer titling opportunities, and provide comprehensive rulebooks and resources for teams of all levels.

To get started, you’ll want to become a member and register your dog with the organizations you’re interested in. You’ll also find calendars of upcoming events, trial locations, and downloadable rulebooks to help you prepare.

Here are a few that our students actively participate in:

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to step into the ring, these organizations offer a welcoming community and great opportunities for growth. Our Certified Nose Work Instructors are here to help you and your dog succeed every step of the way—from preparing for your first trial to answering any questions about rules, registration, or training strategies.

What to Expect in Class

K9 Nose Work & Happy Ratters classes are a one-dog-at-a-time activity. Each dog will have their own station with seating and a crate, separated by dividers to reduce distractions. When not actively searching, dogs should remain crated.

What to Bring

✔ A well-fitted collar or harness and a 4–6 ft leash
✔ Soft, high-value treats (no dry biscuits!)
✔ A crate cover (optional)
✔ Chews, stuffed Kongs, or snuffle mats for crate time
✔ A copy of your dog’s up-to-date vaccination records

Cancellation Policy

Your registration reserves your spot in class. Refunds are available under the following conditions:

7+ days before class: Full refund (minus processing fees)

Within 7 days of class start: 50% refund

After class start: No refunds

For drop-in classes, cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance to receive credit toward a future class.