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call us at 207-642-3693
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Telling Tails Trainers are available for Private Lessons

For More Info on Classes or Privates Call:  207-642-3693

Odor Recognition Test

To successfully pass an Odor Recognition Test (ORT) a dog must identify the location of the target odor (birch, anise, and clove) and the handler must correctly call an "alert" within a two and a half-minute time period. The ORT test consists of a drill type exercise which requires 12 closed boxes typically set up in a pattern of two rows, spaced a minimum of 48" apart. The ORT is conducted on leash. Handlers may test on all 3 odors or any single odor. We are only offering one setup per odor but we are allowing For Exhibition Only (FEO) after the date stated in the Premium. We will be following NACSW parking lot etiquette and flow design in and out of the building. There will not be any designated reactive dog parking but there is ample room to park with space for your dog.

Details regarding check in time and briefing will be sent approximately 1 week before. 

Please read the test Premium for more information.

For questions email Virginia Howe here

Odor Recognition Test:

Sunday, September 6, 2026
Check-in: 9:30am
Briefing:  10:00am

Run Order:  Birch, Anise, Clove

Judge:  Virginia Howe, CNWI ~ $35 per odor test   (Not available for member discount)

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Introduction to K9 Nose Work®

Inspired by the model of working detection dogs, K9 Nose Work® provides companion and sport dogs a joyful outlet for their innate hunting and scenting abilities. Whether you want to compete for titles, burn excess energy, or increase confidence, most dogs love this game.

The K9 Nose Work® method begins by searching for food or toys rather than the target odors used in competition. This component is fundamental to building the dog’s hunt drive, independence, and confidence, while sharpening the handler’s observation skills. By the time odor is introduced, the dog’s desire to play the game is very strong and we have already established good teamwork between the handler and the dog.  Because of this it is recommended that teams continue with this foundation class to better prepare them for working with odor.

Taught by a certified nose work instructor, the first class introduces the game and the remaining classes build specific foundation skills to teach handlers to read their dogs and build the dogs’ search experience level.

Dogs work on a flat collar or harness and 6-10' leash. Each team will work one at a time inside the building and your dog needs to be comfortable staying in your vehicle until it is their turn.
 
Prerequisites:  Dog should be able to wait in the car until their turn. Dogs will need to work on a flat collar or harness and 6-10' leash.  

Questions?  email here

Introduction to K9 Nose Work®  
Tuesdays, September 8 - October 13, 2026
4:00pm - 5:00pm
6 weeks

Instructor: Marianne Finney, PNWI ~ $225

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Nose Work Foundation Skills for Multi-Levels - 6 Weeks

Nose Work is a sport that was inspired by working detection dogs and has grown into a fun activity for both you and your dog. It is an amazing way to build communication as well as a better relationship with your dog. An additional benefit is increasing your dogs confidence and burning excess energy. This six-week class, taught by a certified K9 Nose Work® instructor, will give you an overview of the foundation skills needed for the sport. Dogs will work one at a time inside or outside the building and we modify the search depending on the skill being taught and the level of the team.

Topics Covered:
●   Threshold
●   Deep
●   Corners
●   Elevated
●   Tight
●   Barriers

Prerequisites:  This multi-level class is for dogs and handlers who have completed Intro to K9 Nosework® & Intro to Odor and already understand the basics of the game or for experienced teams that want to strengthen their foundation skills. Your dog should not be reactive to people and be able to wait in the car until their turn. Dogs will need to work on a flat collar or harness and 6-10' leash.

To be put on the Waiting List for Nose Work Multi Levels, please email here.    

Nose Work Multi Levels
Sundays, November 1 - December 6, 2026
10:00am - 11:30am
6 weeks

Instructor:  Ginny Howe, CNWI ~ $225

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Intro to Odor - 4 Weeks

In this class we are building on the foundation skills learned in Intro to Nose Work and adding the target odors (birch, anise, and clove). Included will be instruction on how to handle and store odor and how to set hides for homework during the off weeks. An optional odor kit can be purchased for $20. Kit includes: air tight box, authorized scented swabs, and vessels to use for homework.

Prerequisites:  Intro to K9 Nose Work®  

Intro to Odor
Returning 2026
X weeks

Instructor:  Marianne Finney, PNWI/  Ginny Howe, CNWI ~ $150

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Class Cancellation & Refund Policy

Full Refund with 2 weeks notice prior to class start date.
50% Refund with 1 week notice prior to class start date.
No Refund with less than 1 week notice or class has started.

Requesting to transfer to another class is considered a cancellation and falls under above terms.

Class Cancellations

If we have to cancel class for any reason, we will schedule a make up class. 
We will make every effort to stay with the original class schedule,
but should a make up class be required there are no refunds for make up classes that you are unable to attend.