Your first scent detection trial

So you think you might be interested in competing in scent detection, but aren't quite sure where to start?  This is for you!

Get your dog a number

In order to compete, a dog needs to have a number assigned to them by the organization holding the competition.  This allows the organization to keep track of all of the competing dogs and their progress.  In our area, there are two main organizations offering trials, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and the Sporting Detection Dog Association (SDDA).  Currently, the closest trials are held by the Muskoka District Kennel Club (CKC trials) in Gravenhurst, and various groups holding SDDA trials around the Barrie area.  The Red Barn Event Centre in Barrie also regularly holds CKC trials.

The SDDA only holds scent detection events, and all dogs register the same way through their website.  Since trials can fill quite quickly, and registered participants get priority entry, I do recommend also becoming a registered participant yourself.

The CKC does allow unregistered purebred dogs and mixed breed dogs to register to compete in scent detection events.  Unregistered purebred dogs can get a PEN number and mixed breed dogs can get a Canine Companion number.  The requirements are on the forms.  You will also need to become a member of the CKC.

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