Nosework - Best activity for senior dogs

Contents

• What is nosework for dogs?
• Why is nosework ideal for senior dogs?
• Training senior dogs for nosework
• Tips for training a senior dogs for nosework
• Dog nosework clubs and classes

As dogs age, they often develop joint issues that limit their mobility, making it difficult for them to participate in many dog sports that require intense high-impact exercise. Nose work (also known as 'scent work' or ‘scent detection’) is a great activity for older dogs to provide mental and low-impact physical stimulation to senior dogs. It also helps improve their confidence and can be a fun bonding activity for both the dog and their owner.

What is Nosework?

Simply put, nosework is a canine activity that involves using a dog's sense of smell to find a specific scent. It's a fun and challenging game that can be enjoyed by dogs of all breeds and abilities. The activity is based on the work that detection dogs do such as drug detection. However, in nosework, the dogs are trained to search for scents like essential oils, birch or anise, hidden in different environments. Dog treats or toys can also be used to make it more exciting for the dog. 

Why is nosework ideal for senior dogs?

Although many senior dogs have limited mobility and endurance, their sense of smell remains as sharp as ever. In fact, as dogs age, their sense of smell may become even more refined. Nose work provides a mentally stimulating activity that can keep older dogs engaged and provide a low impact exercise that doesn't cause undue strain on their body. 

Nose work is also great at promoting bonding between the dog and the owner. It's a great way for owners to spend time with their senior dog, encourage them to explore their surroundings, learn new skills and have fun. 

Training senior dogs for nosework

Training a senior dog for nosework takes patience and understanding of their abilities and limitations. It is important to start with simple exercises that your dog enjoys then gradually increase the difficulty level as the dog becomes more confident and comfortable. 

Tips for training a senior dogs for nosework:

1. Start with simple exercises: Begin with easy-to-find scents and an environment that the dog is familiar with. For example, hide a scent in a familiar room or on a favourite toy. 
2. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they find the scent. Positive reinforcement helps build the dogs confidence and encourages them to continue the activity. 
3. Slowly increase difficulty: As the dog becomes confident and comfortable wit the activity, increase the difficulty level by hiding the scent in more challenging locations or by using complex scents. 
4. Keep in mind dogs physical ability: Senior dogs may have limited mobility, so it's important to adjust the search area and hide the scent in places that the dog can easily access. 
5. Keep the session short: Older dogs tire quicker so it's important to keep the sessions short and enjoyable. If your dog becomes tired, it might be time to stop. It's better to have a few smaller sessions than to have one long session that is tiring for the dog.

Dog nosework clubs and classes 

Joining a nosework club can be a great way to learn more about the activity, provide an opportunity for your dog to socialize and for you to meet other dog owners.  You can research your local scent work clubs online. Remember to read reviews from other dog owners. Clubs usually have a trial/workshop you can attend to see if it's a good fit for you and your dog. But remember to check requirements. Some clubs have specific requirements such as training experience and breeds. 

FlexiPaw recently sponsored a SSANZ approved trial by Noseworx. Dogs of all breeds and ages competed to find the source of specific odours hidden indoors, outdoors, in various containers and on vehicles. If you are in Rotorua or Tokoroa region, you can join below facebook groups and learn more about joining the club. 

Scent Sports Rotorua: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1773549616368820

Tokoroa scent: https://www.facebook.com/groups/186572606408401

K9 Scent Seekers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/661089391534653

Conclusion

Nose work is an ideal activity for senior dogs that can provide them with mental and physical stimulation while providing bonding bonding with their owners. It is important to remember that training older dogs for nosework requires patience and understanding of their ability and limitations. But with the right approach, it can be a fun and rewarding activity for both the dog and its owner. 

Disclaimer: The content on this website is for educational purpose only. We recommend you talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns, if the lameness worsens or are unsure. Products on this website are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease. The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.