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Your first scent detection trial

6/8/2026

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.

To Greet or not to Greet

4/28/2026

This is a subject I hesitate to write about because I think people may have some strong feelings about it, but I think it is something that we should think about.

Should your puppy or dog greet other dogs they meet when they are out and about on their leash with you?

Teaching the Treat Cannon Trick

3/21/2026

Recently I taught Tristan the Treat Cannon trick, and when I posted the video of him on Facebook, others mentioned giving it a try. So here is the process I used to teach him and some alternative suggestions for different dogs.

Muddy Paws Season: Managing the Mess

3/2/2026

After a long winter spring is eagerly anticipated, however, it brings with it two downsides - mud, and bugs. While we eagerly await the enjoyable time after the mud dries and before the bugs arrive, we can prepare to manage the muddy paws and train our dogs to cooperate with having their paws wiped.

But What Do You Want?

2/5/2026

Often we focus on what our dogs are doing that we don't want. But here is a secret - if you can define what you would like your dog to do in that situation, and the steps to teach that, you will make more progress towards your goal.

Recently I was reminded of this in my own life, as adolescent Liv started barking more and more when it was time to go outside first thing in the morning, and when I got home at night after teaching classes. I did the usual shushing her, and as you can probably guess, it didn't do anything. It wasn't until I stepped back and put on my dog trainer hat that I saw change.

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