What To Bring To Class

Hungry & Motivated Dog – Skip breakfast on the day of class or give only ½ of his usual meal.  If you have a high-energy dog, please don’t tire him out with a long hike or play session before the class.

Dog’s Favorite High Value Treats – Bring a few different kinds in a sealable “Tupperware-type” container marked with the dog’s name.  Please avoid kibble, or crumbly or crunchy cookie-type treats. Small pieces of cooked hot dog quarters, steak bits, cheese cubes or string cheese coins are good choices.

Treat Pouch or Bait Bag – For dog treats and positive reinforcement. No plastic baggies, please. My personal favorites are the Starmark Pro-training treat pouch or this Premier Treat Bag by Terry Ryan. You can use alternatives: (carpenter’s) apron, hunting jacket, or even a dedicated sweatshirt with kangaroo pocket.

Bed or Crate – Located in your car for the dog to rest when not working
 
Fresh Drinking Water & Bowl – Nosework is thirsty business & a dog can’t scent properly if his mucous membranes are dry.  Water for you, too, if it’s a hot day.
 
Poop Bags – For clean-up
 
Proof of Vaccination – Must show vaccination or immunity against rabies, parvo, Bordatella, canine influenza, and distemper. Bring vaccination (or antibody titer level) records with you.  Rabies “collar tags” are not sufficient.
 

Buckle or Martingale Collar & Leash –  No slip or pinch collars, head halters, e-collars or Easy Walk harnesses while working, though these may be used to safely move the dog from the car to the training room. You’ll need a harness that fits differently from what you usually use to walk your dog, as well as an 8-10’ leash. Both will be used ONLY for nosework. Many students like to use Ezy Dog Quick-Fit harnesses, which can be ordered on-line and are also available at Healthy Pet in Freeland (10% discount if you’re a nosework student).  Note that harnesses are unsuitable for draft, carting, or sled dogs. If you want to see examples, I’ll bring all of these to the first class:

 

  • EzyDog Quick-Fit Harness – These seem to be everyone’s favorite, especially for large or long-coated dogs. Buy them here on Amazon.
  • Martingale Collar – These from Genuine Dog Gear are easy to adjust to fit over dog’s head for a loose collar or use a snap/clip buckle fastener
  • Biothane (pleather) Leashes – These are great! Light-weight, washable, non-tangling, water-proof (yes, we work in the rain!)  Please don’t attach any dangling items (poop bag holders, etc). 20-30’ is good length for exterior searches. I like those from K9Noz and Percee and Friends.
  • MarineDog Junior 8’ Hands Free Leash – Very useable and can be sized down to 4’ leash.
  • Instructor Favorite – The 10’ “Ultimate Show Lead” at GripLeash.com.