Scent Search is a relatively new sport in which a dog uses its nose to find a targeted odor, while being a well-rounded and versatile working partner. It develops the ability of the working stock dog to search that may occur in any terrain or weather while showcasing independent working and thinking and problem solving. This is also a sport in which veteran dogs and handlers or otherwise challenged handlers/dogs can compete and succeed.
Scent search is a sport that evolved from working detection dogs to locate a target odor and communicate to the handler that the odor has been found. This is a bonding team activity between the dog and handler. The handler learns to “read” the changes in body language. The dog indicates that they are hunting and then “sourcing” or locating the target scent. Scent search can build focus and confidence in the dog and is a bonding team sport.
This is a performance sport that can earn the established titles in increased challenging levels of performance. During this event, the team should exhibit communication and teamwork during the search and above all, have fun.
Here are the proposed rules for clubs to start looking at and holding fun matches. This is not an approved ASCA titling program at this time.
Scent Search Rules
Please notice in the rule book is the following:
Holding a Trial or Match (Pg 5)
Scent Chart (Pg 12)
Becoming a Judge (pg 29)
Below forms are for Fun Matches only and be used at a affiliate club level. This is not an official program with ASCA at this time.
Mail all forms to: asca.execsec@gmail.com
Scent Sanction
Scent Match Form
Scent Trial Report
Scent Entry Form
Scent Judges Application
If you have suggestions for the ASCA Scent Search Program, please contact a Scent Search Committee member and they will be happy to take your suggestion to the committee.