The College of Scent Dogs
We do the dog training your dog will love.
Increase your dog training portfolio with Assured City & Guilds Courses.
‘Mantrailing for Every Dog’
Mantrailing is the ultimate game of hide and seek, offering a fun and rewarding challenge for both humans and their dogs. The innovative ‘Hydrotrailing’ method enhances a dog's natural scenting abilities, making them remarkable mantrailing partners. Gain an extraordinary chance to help guardians and their pups share in this exciting adventure together!
‘Scent Training for Every Dog’
Encourage guardians to train their dogs in using their remarkable sense of smell to identify various scents and indicate their discoveries! Activate the Seeking-System create emotional connections and release those feel-good chemicals in your dog's brain. This serves as the perfect cognitive boost for any dog; it is captivating and highly pleasurable for both dogs and their humans.
‘Tracking for Every Dog’
“If dogs could choose their own training”! Experience the ultimate in precision dog training. This tracking journey is exceptional, allowing you to follow distinct patterns, gather evidence along the way, and enjoy incredible rewards at the end. Discover the team tracking adventure, tracking for reactive dogs, and tracking for conservation— all part of this fantastic course.
Giving dogs and handlers the skills to grow, adapt, and succeed together.
At the College of Scent Dogs, we’ve redefined scent detection training by asking one key question: Is there a better way? The answer is yes—and it’s backed by Rob’s doctoral thesis, real-world experience, and proven results.
Our evidence-based programme goes beyond traditional, repetitive training methods. Instead, we focus on reflective practice, humanistic learning, and real-life problem-solving, equipping both dog and handler with the skills to work together, not just in routine drills but in unpredictable, real-world scenarios.
This choice-based approach unlocks deeper learning, stronger communication, and more adaptable teams. Whether you’re training for pet scent work or operational detection, we prepare you for the challenges others don’t.
The Questions
-
Absolutely, that’s a resounding yes! The valuable knowledge you'll gain is really something special. So, no need to worry; this course is designed for everyone! Many candidates come to us not just to boost their skills, knowledge, and abilities but also to share in the delightful experience of Scent Detection, Tracking or Mantrailing with their dogs. Join us and learn from the best in the industry. Your dog will love you even more!
-
Our people! We’re thrilled to introduce Dr Rob, who holds a doctorate in scent detection and has authored insightful books on our topics. Alongside him is Karen, and together they possess over 60 years of real-world police search dog experience—just imagine the wealth of knowledge they offer! Additionally, our wonderful staff contribute a crucial element of pet-dog training to our courses. Adding that extra special creativity and excitement to make your course an absolute blast! We ensure that our scent-detection training is not only the best but also the most enjoyable!
-
At the College of Scent Dogs Ltd, we’re all about helping our dogs learn and thrive! We believe in blending various concepts in training to truly empower their decision-making, enhance problem-solving abilities, and boost their olfactory stamina. By mastering all three subjects, you’ll be able to create fun scenario-based training and exciting adventure games, even dive into crafting murder mysteries and challenging courses that build a vibrant community around scent detection! Plus, earning all three City & Guilds Credentials will beautifully highlight your expertise in the ‘Trinity of Scent Detection: Tracking, Mantrailing, and Scent Detection.’
-
This is possible; we are here to help you. The course lasts three weeks but is spread out over the year. Therefore, you would need to visit us on three separate occasions. The programme also offers online support, as we are here to assist you throughout your journey with webinars, progress meetings, and help if needed. We have had candidates from Europe, the USA, Australia, and South Africa. Additionally, we can even provide a dog if necessary. Please contact us so we can assist you with your unique requirements.
-
Above all, we are here to help! We encourage you to contact us, as we have several solutions. Scent Detection, Tracking, and Mantrailing are excellent options for reactive dogs, and we understand your needs. We only train one dog at a time, as many people learn from watching others progress; therefore, this may work well for you. We have access to ‘College Dogs', and handling a new dog will enhance your skills, giving you the opportunity to complete the programme as a participant rather than merely an observer.
The College
Leading the Way in Scent Detection Training
As the only City & Guilds Assured provider in scent detection, tracking, and mantrailing, the College of Scent Dogs offers expert-led training that sets it apart from the rest. Our instructors bring together real operational experience and top-tier academic credentials, offering a level of depth and quality that’s hard to match.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned handler, our courses are built to challenge, inspire, and elevate your skills. We blend cutting-edge knowledge with practical, hands-on learning to create confident, capable dog handler teams.
Sniffer dog training isn’t just for professionals anymore; it’s for every dog and every owner. By tapping into your dog’s natural instincts, scentwork becomes more than just training, and it becomes a joyful, rewarding experience for both of you. From fun-filled enrichment to serious detection work, it’s the ultimate partnership in action.
Smart. Satisfying. Scentwork.
The People
At The College, our Scent Detection Courses are more than just training—they’re the most comprehensive, expertly delivered programmes in the field. Led by Dr. Rob and Karen, who bring decades of operational police dog experience and top-tier academic credentials, our courses offer a level of knowledge and practical insight that’s truly unmatched.
We’re proud to be the only scent detection training provider with City & Guilds Assured status, setting a gold standard for professional development. But our real success? It’s in our graduates. From launching their own sniffer-dog training businesses to working in conservation and operational roles, they’re putting their training to powerful use and making a difference.
Now recognised worldwide, The College of Scent Dogs is your gateway to expert-level scent detection training. Wherever you are and whatever your dog loves to do- scent detection, tracking, or mantrailing- we have you covered.
Ready to lead the pack?
Join us and be part of a global community of skilled, confident, and successful scent dog teams, proudly displaying their City & Guilds credentials.
The Products
“Designed to be sniffed at!”
When we first started our business, we struggled to find training products for sniffer dogs that were both affordable and of good quality. We couldn't find anything that was reasonably priced and well-made; it seemed like everything was either too expensive or poorly adapted for our needs. We also didn’t want to settle for plastic ‘nick-nacks’ that lacked the professional look we needed to run a successful canine training business.
We had no choice but to create our own products and we did just that! Our products are inspired by the scent training equipment we used while in the police force. We came up with affordable, portable, and professional scent detection equipment. Our modular equipment is now being utilised by the police, educational institutions, non-profit organisations, and dog trainers worldwide.
All our prices shown are inclusive of VAT.
The Murders! & Mysteries ….
The College of Scent Dogs are proud to produce Canine Scent Detection Murder Mysteries… Frequently run alongside our Scent & Scentability workshops these promise to be an amazing experience.
Let us take you and your dog back to the age of steam, as in the 1800’s life was different, and ‘Steampunk’ was the future. ‘Who did-it’ and why? Join us to answer these questions, give your dog opportunity to become a super-sleuth finding clues, and assisting in the investigation.
Fancy dress encouraged , so get your ‘Steampunk’ on and join our investigation team to help solve the crime… It’s the best fun you can have with your scent detection dog.
The College offer 0% payment schemes or the opportunity to pay via credit card, for all our courses.
VAT Registration number: 448047483
VAT Included in all Course and Product prices.
Thank you for such kind words…
-
To say this was the best Scent Detection course I’ve ever been on just wouldn’t be enough.. it was the best COURSE I’ve been on!
Shannon
-
Karen and Rob were fantastic. Their style of teaching really does bring the best out of you and your dog. I highly recommend the courses. I have learnt so much in such a short space of time.
Alison
-
I’ve already completed the tracking course last year which was phenomenal, and was perfect for my rescue dog. This year I’m doing scent detection with my blind rescue and it is so much fun! Karen, Rob, Jenny and Ben are amazing teachers (Hollie was incredible during tracking too!). The venue is amazing and there is so much space to work and the dogs just love it. My two dogs bounce about when we arrive in the morning, and they are happy and sleepy by the end of the day.
Lou
-
What a course! Kali and I went to the Scent Detection Handler and Instructor course and I've loved week 1. Cannot wait to get back for the next set. All the instructors are super supportive and the other attendees are lovely too. The dogs were the stars of the show, of course. It's been amazing to watch them all progress through the week.
PPS
-
Exceptional Training – A Huge Boost for My Business! The College of Scent Dogs has been a game-changer for me and my business. Dr. Rob’s incredible knowledge and expertise in scent detection are second to none, and his training methods have completely transformed my dog’s abilities. The course was both practical and scientifically grounded, giving me the confidence and skills to take my business to the next level. Highly recommended for anyone serious about scent detection! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Happiest Dog Mum
-
Had the most amazing week on the Tracking Course. Got so much out of it, knowledge, experience, confidence, ideas, motivation & so much more enthusiasm to teach scent work
Sarah
-
What a journey, it's been really hard but Rob, Karen and Sandie were brilliant. I now have my City & Guilds! More than this the confidence and ability to start my own scent classes.
Michelle
-
I don't even know where to start with a review to be honest as its hard to even sum up!..I've just finished my Scent Detection Dog Handler & Instructor course with Rob & Karen. This course was amazing, I've done some super popular courses (Names removed) but these are the BEST! As The College of Scent Dogs have exceeded my expectations! I've not only gained extensive knowledge and skills from them, but above all I've been inspired to be the best dog owner, handler and scent trainer I can be.
Emma
-
The generosity with which Rob & Karen shared their knowledge and experience made this a week full of interest and learning, challenging and enjoyable for handlers and dogs alike. Their approachability and enthusiasm is inspiring and infectious, really great trainers. This course is full of innovative ideas for everyone who already includes Scentwork in their training and behavioural work, and perfect for those who would like to learn how Scentwork can enhance all aspects of your dog training.
Heather
-
I highly recommend the College of Scent Dogs Mantrailing Programme! From the start, I felt I was in the right place. The venue is outstanding, blending real-world environments with structured training areas. The facilities maximise learning for dogs and handlers. A major highlight was the new HydroTrailing method – a game-changer in scent detection. It enhanced my dog’s abilities dramatically. After just one week, my dog confidently followed trails nearly a mile long with precision I never thought possible! If you’re serious about mantrailing, this is the place to be! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommended!
Hollie
-
Exceptional Training – The College of Scent Dogs has been a game-changer for me and my business. Dr. Rob’s incredible knowledge and expertise in scent detection are second to none, and his training methods have completely transformed my dog’s abilities. The course was both practical and scientifically grounded, giving me the confidence and skills to take my business to the next level. Highly recommended for anyone serious about scent detection! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steve
-
Thank you! I registered on Saturday and started watching the videos on Sunday morning. I watched them ALL back to back. Loving every moment, and I will continue. It’s all so friendly. Now time to do the dog training my dog will love.
Jo S.