Navigating Close Proximity Hides and Converging Odor with Silke Wittig
This hands-on workshop builds upon the principles covered in the Close Encounters – Navigating Close Proximity Hides and Converging Odor breakout session.
Close proximity hides can blur odor picture clarity for both dog and handler. They are are rarely just “harder hides”, but create unique odor dynamics that challenge sourcing and commitment. From training setups to trial searches, close proximity hides require thoughtful handling and clear criteria. In this session, you'll train the intricacies of close proximity hides and converging odor.
Coverage drills for Acclimation, Expansion, and Fun! with Holly Bushard
Join Holly for a front row seat in exploring detailed ways to focus on acclimation and complete coverage of search areas. Watch our performance partners demonstrate how to feel secure and optimistic in new space. Observe them growing more comfortable and enthusiastic about moving though the different zones of a search.
This session will be a hands-on demonstration of Holly’s Greatest Hits on acclimation and expansion in new search areas. Join us in executing and practicing cool exercises to facilitate great training. You will loving having fresh new tools for your collection.
Performance Under Pressure: Applying Mental Management® Techniques to Your Team with Teah Anders
Why do you sometimes feel like a different handler on trial day than you do in practice? In this hands-on breakout, we connect Mental Management® concepts directly to Nose Work searches and real-world team performance.
You’ll learn how to apply practical mental tools before, during, and after searches, while your dog works authentic odor challenges. We’ll explore how handler mindset influences decision-making, clarity, and confidence under pressure—and how to use pressure as an advantage rather than an obstacle.
Participants will have opportunities to debrief searches, ask questions, and translate concepts into actionable strategies. You’ll leave with tools you can immediately integrate into training and competition, along with renewed confidence and excitement for your next chance to test your skills.
High Hides with Chris Mason
In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore how every dog, regardless of height, can confidently and clearly indicate elevated hides with the right foundation and communication.
Teams will work on reading subtle changes of behavior, refining handler positioning, and building trust in their dog’s ability to work elevated hides. You’ll also learn how to incorporate regular tune-up exercises that keep high hides in your dog’s skill set—and on your radar.
Get ready to boost your dog’s confidence and your own when the hide’s up high!
Resilience by Design: Using Tolerable Stressors in Nose Work Training with Bridget Beardsley
This hands-on workshop builds on the principles covered in the Resilience by Design: Using Tolerable Stressors in Nose Work Training breakout session.
Teams will train through a variety of thoughtfully designed challenges—noise, footing changes, handler variables, and spatial puzzles. Participants will practice adjusting criteria on the fly, supporting their dogs without over-handling, and recognizing when a challenge is building confidence versus when it needs to be dialed back. Expect problem-solving, experimentation, and plenty of “aha” moments as dogs learn they can succeed even when the environment isn’t perfect.
Visualizing Odor: Applying Scent Theory to Nose Work Hide Placement with Alena Asher
In this practical session, participants will use baby powder to visualize air currents and odor movement in a search space. Based on their observations and their dog’s working style, they’ll place hides and run their dogs through the setup. We’ll explore strategies for reading the environment, understanding odor travel, and using that knowledge to improve start line decisions and search success. This workshop is designed to turn scent theory into actionable training skills.
Introduction to Trialing with Susan Hinson and Raegan Ruiz
Curious about nose work trials but not sure what to expect? This workshop is designed specifically for handlers who are brand new to trialing and want to feel prepared, confident, and supported before stepping into your first event.
You'll learn about:
- The flow of a typical trial day.
- What to expect in the parking lot and how you'll know when it's your turn.
- The NACSW Virtual Walk-Through website.
- The tools and gear that handlers commonly bring to stay comfortable and help their dogs succeed.
- What to expect in a trial search - who will be there, why they're there, how to know how much time you have, what challenges you should expect to see, and what the judge is looking for.
- The roles that make trials possible - from the CO, judges, and volunteer positions, to the folks behind-the-scenes.
- Learning opportunities including sniff n' gos, mock trials, and volunteering.
You and your dog will get to:
- Search a mock Odor Recognition Test (ORT) so you know what to expect if you haven't already passed yours.
- Run NW1-style searches in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
- Receive coaching and feedback throughout the process, helping you connect everything you've learned and build confidence before entering a real trial.