All About the Rat: Beginner Scent Work with Kathy Marble-Brown
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, far superior to humans. Scent work is a fantastic way to tap into their natural abilities, providing mental stimulation and strengthening the bond between handler and dog. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the fascinating world of scent detection, Kathy Marble-Brown’s Beginner Scent Work Online Course is the perfect place to start!
A Brief History of Scent Work
Scent detection has been used for centuries in various ways. From hunting and tracking to search-and-rescue missions, dogs have played a vital role in helping humans locate items of interest.
Dog Sports & Fun Competitions: Scent work isn’t just for working dogs—it has become a popular sport where all breeds can participate, using their noses to find hidden scents in controlled environments.
Rat Hunting & Barn Hunt: Historically, terriers and other small, agile breeds were bred to hunt rats and vermin in barns, ships, and homes. Today, this has evolved into the popular sport of Barn Hunt, where dogs search for safely enclosed rats in a structured environment.
Professional Scent Detection: From bomb-sniffing dogs at airports to cadaver-detection dogs assisting law enforcement, scent work has played a crucial role in keeping communities safe.
What Makes a Great Scent Work Dog?
One of the best things about scent work is that any dog can participate! While certain breeds excel due to their natural hunting instincts and scenting abilities, all dogs can be trained to enjoy and succeed in this activity.
Top breeds for scent work include:
- Beagles (famous for tracking scents)
- Bloodhounds (extraordinary scent receptors)
- Border Collies (quick learners and problem solvers)
- Labrador Retrievers (often used in detection work)
- German Shepherds (popular in police K9 units)
- Terriers (natural rat hunters, great for barn hunt)
However, mixed breeds, seniors, and even small companion breeds can also enjoy scent work! It’s all about tapping into their natural instincts and making the process fun.
About the Beginner Scent Work Course
Kathy Marble-Brown’s Beginner Scent Work Online Course is designed to introduce dogs and their handlers to the exciting world of scent detection. Whether you’re interested in competition, barn hunt, or just providing your dog with an enriching new activity, this class will help build foundational skills in a fun, supportive environment.
Course Details
- Pre-course starts: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
- Course starts: Monday, February 17, 2025
- Duration: 4 weeks
- Format: Facebook-based, allowing participants to work at their own pace
- Content: Video lessons, written posts, progressive skill-building
- Focus Areas:
- Odor imprinting & scent association
- Searching techniques & confidence-building games
- Proper handling of odor sources
- Capturing a clear, reliable alert for handlers
- Building drive and enthusiasm for searching
Bonus: The course includes a scent kit with materials to get started right away!
Who Should Sign Up?
- Anyone curious about scent work
- Dog owners looking for a low-impact, mentally enriching activity
- Those interested in Barn Hunt, Nosework, or Rat Hunting sports
- Handlers who want to refine their dog’s scent detection and alerting skills
Cost and How to Enroll
Cost: $120 (includes scent kit & shipping)
Payment: Required within 3 days of signing up (via PayPal)
Sign up here: Registration Link
Got questions? Reach out to Kathy Marble-Brown via email for more details!
Scent work is not only an incredible sport but also an amazing way to bond with your dog while stimulating their natural instincts. Whether you have a rat-hunting terrier or a couch-loving pup, every dog has a nose for the game.
Ready to dive in? Sign up today and start your journey into the world of scent detection!
About the Author:
Savanna Westwood
Savanna Westwood is the Owner and Founder of The Savvy Sitter, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, LLC. She has grown up with animals all her life and enjoys spending time with them. Savanna has lived in the Winter Garden and Windermere Area for over 30 years. When she is not taking care of Fur Friends, one can find her reading, practicing archery, riding, and devising ways to provide additional and excellent services to clients. Savanna is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter with Pet Sitter International's CPPS certification and also holds certification in Pet First Aid and CPCR for Pet-Care Professionals.
