The goal of snifferdog sport events is for all the participants to have fun.
- Almost any dog can play
- Snifferdog sport events are family activity based
- Snifferdog sport events are non-competative. (Although some organizations prefer to set their event up as a "friendly" game or race against time or teams.)
To get started there are two levels.
Introductory for dogs that have not learned the "mark" "scent discrimination" & trained indication yet.
This exercise is a map of the area the target odor is paired with smelly food treats. The articles will be visible to humans that are ALSO hunting for the item. This game is very much like letter-boxing or geocaching only with a scent component and reward for the dogs that participate.
Much like a search and rescue exercise teams are given a map with clues or coordinates and when they find their search area they do a small area search.
Advanced level is for dog teams that have done some scent training. Teams that want something to do after they get that tracking title. Teams that have participated in some snifferdog sport workshops or training classes should be prepared for this level. Retired SAR dogs their body might not be up to the stress but the spirit is still willing. Articles are hidden with a scent article. The participating teams are given a particular odor on a start article. They also need to find the area but the source article may not be readily observable to the human. The humans need to use their search strategy skills to help their dog find the article article.
Snifferdog sport is designed to truly be a family orientated activity. Safety FIRST all participants are always responsible for their own their family and their dog's safety. If you are going to participate you are assuming all responsibility for your dog, your children, and your own behavior. Snifferdog Sport always follows the rules of the community.
