About the course

In scent detection, performance doesn’t fall apart because dogs “forget” what they’ve learned — it often falls apart because they can’t access those skills clearly in the moment. This course focuses on the role of arousal, focus, and cognitive load in search work, and why otherwise capable dogs can become inconsistent under pressure. We’ll break down the difference between state and skill, explore common patterns like escalation, fatigue, and first-search fallout, and look at how rewards, frustration, and handler influence shape performance across containers, interiors, exteriors, and vehicles.

Trish Noble

Trish Noble is the owner of Noble Nose Dog Training and an experienced scent detection instructor and SDDA judge based in Atlantic Canada. She has been training and competing in scent detection since 2013 and is passionate about helping handlers better understand what their dogs are telling them in search. Her teaching combines practical experience, ongoing education, and a strong interest in the “why” behind performance — with a focus on building thoughtful, capable teams.

Curriculum

2 Chapters · 13 Lessons

  1. 1

    Webinar Replay

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Introduction

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      When the Wheels Fall Off

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      The Performance Window

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Reading the Dog

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      The Handler Effect

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      The Playbook

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Q&A

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Slide Deck

  2. 2

    Companion Materials

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Core Concepts Reference Sheet

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Early Warning Signs and Arousal Guide

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Dog Arousal Profile Worksheet

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Trial Day Arousal Management Planner

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Feedback Survey

Register now to access the replay and companion handout pack.

If your dog knows how to search but can’t always access that skill clearly under pressure, this course will help you better understand why — and what to do about it.

$50.00

Enroll now