23/09/2026
NEW! OCN LEVEL 3 ACCREDITED COURSE
THE IMDT SCENT DOG INSTRUCTOR COURSE
UNLEASH THE POWER OF THE NOSE!
Your clients already know their dogs love to sniff – we know it’s their Superpower!!
But ..... do you know how to turn that incredible natural ability into structured, engaging and effective Scentwork training?
This hands on Practical Course is the pefect course for you ...
.. whether you're an established dog trainer looking to expand your services, or you're ready to develop a new specialist area, this course will give you the knowledge, practical experience and confidence to start putting Scentwork into YOUR toolbox so you can confidently deliver Scentwork Classes, Workshops and 1-2-1 sessions, this five-day practical course is your opportunity to take your skills to the next level
The difference between running a scentwork activity and actually understanding how to train Scentwork!
Scentwork is a fascinating combination of science, observation, training mechanics and problem-solving
You'll discover what is really happening when a dog searches, how scent moves through an environment, why dogs behave differently around odour and how you can use all of this knowledge to become an OCN Accredited IMDT Scent Dog Instructor
THE best way to learn about Scentwork... is to get your nose into it!
Presented by Mustafa Ozmus, this five day hands-on course is designed to give you practical skills to help improve your knowledge of scentwork, both theory and practical applications
During the course you'll build on your knowledge and skills to:
Describe canine olfactory anatomy and capabilities
Explain scent mechanics; cones, airflow, evaporation, contamination
Define target sent, imprinting principles
Understand training philosophy; +R, back chaining and shaping
Conduct safe, effective scent imprinting
Shape clear, consistent final responses
Teach container searches; systematic progression
Read early behaviour changes indicating scent interest
Plan effective hide placement; height, accessibility, airflow
Understand exterior variables; terrain, wind, vegetation
Implement systematic search patterns
Introduce vehicle search protocols
Work on multiple hides and varying difficulty
Develop criteria for progression and maintenance
Design structured nosework classes for different levels/ abillities
Diagnose and resolve common training issues
As part of your course, at no extra cost, you'll have an opportunity to complete your assessment to gain your OCN Level 3 Accreditation as a Scent Dog Instructor
IMDT Members will have the opportunity to add to their profile the IMDT Scent Dog Instructor Badge as well as update their completed courses listing to advertise to potential clients their Scent Instructor credentials
This course has both practical training sessions and some indoor classroom time
During the classroom sessions your dog will need to be happy and comfortable in your car, taking a well earned rest, please do not bring your dog if they cannot be left alone in your vehicle or if you don't have a vehicle to leave them in
An IMDT member of staff will be monitoring your dogs during these 'down' times. You're welcome to attend without a dog and you will gain as much from the course as you would if you did bring one
If you are unsure please email [email protected]
You will be sent an email two weeks before your course date with any information you need and also the day before your course date so if you book with less than two weeks to go don't worry you'll receive all the information you need before your course
At the end of your course you'll receive your certificate of attendance
Venues: All venues used by IMDT for the 5 Day Scentwork Course have safe onsite parking
North London/Enfield/Herts: Old Ignations Sports Ground, 147 Turkey Street, EN1 4NW
Staffordshire: Staffordshire County Showground, Weston Road, Stafford, ST18 0BD
