ODOR RECOGNITION TEST

Trial entry requires that handler/dog teams must have passed the appropriate Odor Recognition Test (ORT) in advance of the trial. The purpose of the ORT is to verify that the dogs know the target odor (scent) used in competition. Successful passage of an ORT requires a dog to identify the location of the target odor out of 12 boxes, and the handler to correctly call an ‘alert’ (or equivalent) within a three-minute time period.

The Odor Recognition Test must be judged by an NACSW™ sanctioned certifying official, who could be an approved K9 detection handler, a CNWI and/or other qualified person at the discretion of the NACSW™.

TRIAL TITLES

The NACSW  (National Association of Canine Scent Work) currently offers three national title levels for dogs & handlers competing in the sport of K9 Nose Work®: Nose Work 1, 2, and 3, as well as Element titles at the NW3 level, and an NW3 Elite title. A title is awarded for passing all four elements of competition in one trial day, and must be earned before advancing to the next level of competition. See the left side bar for detailed descriptions and title parameters.

NW1: recognizes proficiency in one target odor (birch)

NW2: recognizes proficiency in two target odors (birch and anise) and increases the difficulty level with larger search areas, more hidden odors, and more environmental distractions

NW3: recognizes proficiency in three target odors (birch, anise and clove) and greatly increases the difficulty level, e.g. clear areas, 1-3 hides within non-clear areas, etc.

NW3 Element titles: achieved by successfully completing an individual element three times at the NW3 level. For example, completing the NW3 level container search element at three different trials earns an NW3-C. Earning all four element titles is not equivalent to earning an NW3 title, which requires passing all four elements in one trial day

NW3 Elite: achieved by earning three NW3 titles

Element Specialty titles: beginning in 2013-2014, dogs & handlers will have the opportunity to earn new titles for competing in trials that focus on just one or two elements of competition. These Element Specialty trials could include longer searches or a greater number of searches than a typical element in an all day trial, or they could feature the element searches in unusual or more challenging environments.

For more information on the competition aspect of nose work, visit the NACSW website at: http://www.nacsw.net