Information about K9NW
Hide - Sniff - Love
Hide - Sniff - Love
Methodology of K9NW
The foundation method of K9NW begins with high-value food known as the primary reinforcer. This component triggers dopamine, providing a memory and motivation boost while also satisfying foraging, scavenging and hunting needs. This is the basis for building our dogs' hunt drive, independence and confidence. At the same time, it builds confidence in our skills as handlers and establishes good teamwork with our dogs.
A dog's sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than that of humans. This power comes from up to 300 million olfactory receptors that dogs carry in their noses compared to our 6 million. The part of the canine brain that is dedicated to smell is 40 times larger than ours!
Embrace the journey and enjoy every moment of learning with your dog.
Our dogs perform best and are the most joyful when we allow them to learn on their own terms.
Our dogs are happiest using their natural abilities, especially their amazing olfactory sense.
Our dogs should enjoy decision-making freedom while searching and being supported by the handler, not controlled.
A characteristic of our dogs is joy expressed through scent detection.
This wonderful sport helps handlers discover and appreciate what our dogs can teach us, such as how scent moves depending on the environment and conditions.
Philosophy of K9NW
Why is it important to let your dog sniff on a walk?
Dogs see the world through their nose!
Slow scent sniffing walks allow your dog to absorb and process all the scents in their environment.
Observing your dog on walks gives insight into their natural behaviours.
Allowing your dog to sniff without being rushed or pulled is mentally and physically stimulating, decreases their heart rate and stress levels and improves behaviour. All handlers must remember that it is their dog's walk, not theirs. The world we live in is stressful for our dogs and they need time to be themselves and check pee mails on their walks.