Handler Discrimination Scent Work Class

Handler Discrimination Scent Work Class

Handler discrimination (HD) is an AKC Scent Work Class where a dog is trained to locate an article (cotton ball, cotton swab, glove, or sock), containing the handler’s unique scent. Dogs must be able to ignore other distracting scents, such as the judge’s scent or a steward’s scent. It tests the dog’s ability to discriminate between human odors rather than searching for essential oils. 

 Handler Discrimination Class is held on Wednesday nights, in a dedicated building, in which we do NOT allow essential oils. This helps dogs who have previously done Scent Work understand the difference between the two sports, bringing clarity to the training.

Class Description: This class will teach the beginnings of Handler Discrimination. This AKC Scent Work division requires the dog to find human scent of it’s owner, while ignoring other human scents. We will introduce the dog to finding the owner’s scent on items and then work on novice level searches. This is also the way to start to teach lost item recovery.

Prerequisities

  • Dogs must be Behaviorally Healthy and not have aggression issues with people  Due to the training procedures in this class, it is imperative dogs are comfortable approaching people and having people approach them.
  • Completion of the Canine Good Citizen class, or its equivalent level of manners training, is recommended as a pre-requisite for the introductory class.
  • Completion of a beginner level scent work class, or lost article class is helpful, but not necessary.
  • Dogs must be at least 4 months of age at the start of class.  No upper age limits.
  • All dogs must have Rabies and DHPP vaccinations or titers.   Proof of vaccinations or titers must be brought to first class.  Dogs without proof of vaccinations or titers will not be able to participate.  Pre-registration and pre-payment required.
  • No shock collars, e-collars, prong collars or choke chains allowed in class.
  • Pre-registration with pre-payment is required.

Tuition
$200 for 6 week class

Duration:  1 hour class

Class Size: 6 Dogs Maximum

Wednesday evening
6pm-7pm – 6 week class
Instructor: Joanne Kuchinski
Location: HD Shed (located in the “Sand Ring”)
(2026) | Mar 11 | May 13 | Sept 16

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