~All things Aroma Focused

Well, yesterday, we heard from Asher about his exploits and challenges to earn Nose Work titles. It is pretty much a mystery to us–you have to get into the discipline to understand the nuances as well as the process. All of this has twists and turns that to the outsider seem confusing.

Michelle explained it like this- “Nose work is not an easy topic…people have spreadsheets to sort out their titles and levels.”

I have been wondering about this discipline as I know many of you have too. We know at least six OwyheeStar Weims who are engaged in Nosework at various levels. If I missed someone, please let us know. We would love an update with information and pictures to share.

Henry (Zula Blue X Blue)

Shiny–(Zula Blue X Stackhouse) ~NACSW Nosework Trialing Level 3

Asher (Bernie X Blue)–AKC Scent work

Porsche (Mesquite X Stackhouse)

Pushkin (Dixie X Boone)

Skye (Sage X Blue) AKC Nosework

Michelle was kind enough to fill in a few blanks. So far, she and Asher have competed in the Nose Work or scenting events hosted by four groups. Yes–there are four different options in which Michelle and Asher took part.–there are a few more she has not yet encountered.

1. NACSW — National Association of Canine Scent Work
2. USCSW –United States Canine Scent Work
3. UKC –United Kennel Club UKC Scent Work Event Calendar
4. AKC –American Kennel Club AKC Scent Work News

Each club has their way of doing things–so, keep that in mind. Michelle’s weekend AKC trial event had more than 50 dogs competing at various levels. The NACSW event where Julia and Shiny netted a second place she faced a total of 38 competitors. Both gals and their OwyheeStar wonder Weims did outstanding. We are so proud!

Michelle Explains Asher’s Titles

NW1, DDI, AKC TKN, UKC NC, UKC NV, UKC NE

NACSW NW1 is novice level

USCSS DDI is detection dog intermediate which is one level up from novice.

AKC TKN is novice trick dog

UKC Novice Exterior, Vehicle, and Containers

Each club/group has their own set of rules and what it takes to earn a title.  For an example in UKC, we have novice titles in exterior, vehicle, and containers and compete at the next level in those 3. We missed our interior, so we are novice level in the interior for UKC. Most of the venues are similar, but AKC has buried hides instead of vehicles. NACSW is credited as the founder of the sport. I understand it is a bit confusing–even people involved in the Nose Work keep spreadsheets to be able to remember their titles and levels.

Politics and Whatnot

Well, maybe you have heard about it or not. There is the dog politic thing. Some venues are steeped in it more than others–AKC possibly would be the worst. (Sorry, but it is the truth.) If you are running your Blue or your Longhair Blue, not everyone is going to give you credit due. There is a strong bias within the Weimaraner Club against the blue coats. Nonetheless, people love them and want them.

Michelle says–“I always get compliments on Asher…many comment on what a nice looking dog he is. We have ran into the definition of a “standard weim” several times in our very short time in the world of competition.  At times, people have made some comments that have caught me off guard.  Such as, “They are not our kind.”  At times, I have wanted to strike up a conversation, but let’s just say—body language speaks volumes.  Regardless, I am a girl just wanting to have fun with her dog.  I am not trying to play in your confirmation ring.”

It is the truth that if you want to compete, you have to have a tough hide. Anything can happen. Competitors come with bias as well as swagger. Some are more gracious than others. Scenting sports are fun. There is for sure, not the same level of issues faced with competing for a Show Title.