Frequently asked questions.

We're thrilled you're here exploring the incredible possibilities that await you at The College of Scent Dogs! This FAQ section is designed to spark your excitement and answer all those burning questions about our prestigious City & Guilds assured programmes. Whether you're dreaming about our transformative training methods, curious about what each week holds in store, or wondering how our certification will revolutionise your future. Folks, we've got you covered! Every question you have brings you one step closer to an extraordinary adventure that will transform your perspective on dog training forever.

But here's the question we hear most often, and it fills us with joy every single time:

"Can I join your programmes even if I'm not a professional trainer?"

YES Absolutely! You're going to LOVE every incredible moment!

Your passion is all you need to begin this amazing journey. Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone who adores working with dogs, our programmes are designed to meet you exactly where you are and take you to heights you never imagined possible! Don’t forget, we are here to help. If you can’t find an answer, simply click the button below.

Welcome to your journey of discovery

FAQs Scent Detection

Scent Detection City & Guilds pet dog training, sniffer dog training, scentwork training for all dogs.

  • We welcome reactive dogs, just let’s take care, folks!

    We understand the superpowers of scent work and have successfully accommodated many reactive dogs in our training programmes.

    Here's how we support you:
    • It’s one dog out at a time for us, helping you and your bestie succeed
    • We are super flexible, helping the dog in front of us, as not all dogs have read the book
    • Expert guidance for both you and your dog
    • Sometimes we don’t stick to the script; it’s all about concepts and not strict methods. So, we are here to help

    However, please note:
    As we use a live training venue, we have regular staff movement and visitor activity. If your dog is severely reactive to people or finds new environments extremely challenging, we should discuss whether this setting would be suitable for them. Above all, give us a call….

    We recommend having a chat with us about your dog's specific needs before enrolling. This helps us prepare the right support structure and get things right for you and your dog. Please email us to get the ball rolling

    Many reactive dogs have flourished in our programme, gaining confidence while their handlers develop professional skills. We have witnessed the progression; it’s incredible. Pop along and enjoy our course.

  • Excellent training ratios, because small groups are better!

    Experience the power of focused, personalised instruction with our 1:6 instructor-to-student ratio. We've purposefully designed our programmes this way because excellence demands attention, and everyone loves a cosy group. So cwtch up and join in!

    Why This Matters:
    • Intensive personal guidance, giving you time to ask questions and chat
    • Direct access to expert knowledge from a friendly team
    • Immediate feedback on your technique, what was good, and how we can improve?
    • Time for your questions
    • Space to develop your skills

    However, what truly sets us apart is that you'll work with our entire expert team, as we rotate groups to ensure the best knowledge sharing. Which will give you and your dog…
    • Multiple perspectives on techniques
    • Diverse teaching approaches
    • Broader knowledge base
    • Real-world applications
    • Finding the style that works for you

    Think of it as having multiple mentors, each contributing to your professional development. Because in scent detection, there's rarely just one way to achieve excellence.

    Small groups. Multiple experts. Maximum learning. Great times, social learning is the key!

  • OK, we are fussy…. When it comes to odour husbandry, we have to get serious!

    At The College of Scent Dogs, we exclusively use Napier Gun Oil. It’s one of the UK's most popular competition scents. It's not just about what we use; it's about how we use it. Let’s get straight to the point. We do not, never ever, ever! Spray or drip a neat odour product for the dogs to find. This is contrary to every professional scent detection protocol worldwide.

    We have strict professional scent management protocols.
    Following Locard's Exchange Principle that "every contact leaves a trace," we teach meticulous scent preparation and handling. This scientific approach ensures:
    • Training environments stay clean, with no contamination from oil dripped on surfaces or any other product (Kong) stuffed in gaps. This practice of using direct odour (without containers) will leave a residual odour for a long time, potentially ruining a training venue. Sorry, we have seen so many bad practices over the years.
    • Professional scent preparation
    • Controlled training scenarios
    • Long-term venue preservation

    Best Practice Standards:
    We NEVER place neat odour directly in training areas (Did we say that already?). A mistake that can contaminate venues for months. Instead, we use:
    • Proper containment systems
    • Strategic decoy placement
    • Professional handling protocols
    • Controlled training environments

    Learn from the Best:
    Karen, our expert instructor and a former trainer of Metropolitan Police Explosive Search Dogs, brings world-class expertise in scent husbandry. During week three, she'll share invaluable insights from her years of operational experience, teaching you:
    • Professional scent handling
    • Contamination prevention
    • Storage protocols
    • Safety measures
    • Training area management

    Master these skills, and you'll set yourself apart as a true professional in scent detection training.

  • What makes us unique? Thats easy! We're the only training establishment where operational excellence meets academic expertise and real-world pet dog experience. No other organisation comes close to matching this powerful combination.

    Our Secret Sauce (or Saucy Training!):
    • Dr Rob's doctorate in scent detection
    • Karen's elite police explosive search expertise
    • 50+ years joint operational experience
    • Over 40 years of joint pet dog training
    • City & Guilds assured status
    • Proven pet dog training success

    But here's the real game changer! We don't just train dogs; we create exceptional instructors. Our programme develops both ends of the lead:
    • Advanced dog training techniques
    • Professional teaching skills
    • Business development strategies
    • Adult learning principles
    • Effective communication methods
    • Problem-solving expertise

    Think about it: Where else can you learn from a team that has:
    • Written the textbook (literally!)
    • Trained police search dogs
    • Provides a whole bag full of Degrees
    • Built successful pet dog businesses
    • Created championship-winning teams

    This isn't just another dog training course, it's a complete professional transformation programme backed by the most prestigious certification in the industry.

FAQs Mantrailing.

Mantrailing Training. City & Guilds Mantrailing, pet dog mantrailing courses. The College of Scent Dogs Global mantrailing Courses

  • We train recreational Mantrailing for pet dog instructors and owners because it’s just the best fun!

    While our City & Guilds credentials are highly respected in the pet dog training industry, they're designed for recreational mantrailing rather than operational search and rescue work.

    Search & Rescue (SAR) is a specialised field requiring extensive additional training, certifications, and typically years of dedicated commitment. SAR teams have their own rigorous training programmes and specific operational protocols that go far beyond our recreational trailing (Although it’s based on operational searches, its not just a jog around the corner)

    Our programme focuses on:
    • Recreational and sport mantrailing
    • Pet dog training excellence
    • Competition preparation
    • Building client programmes, and having a fantastic time with your students and their dogs

    While we're proud to have trained operational SAR handlers who chose to expand their knowledge through our courses (particularly in areas like hydrotrailing), our certification alone doesn't qualify you for SAR work.

    If you're interested in Search & Rescue, we recommend contacting your local SAR organisations directly. They can guide you through their specific requirements and training pathways. If you do, let us know, we will be so proud of you, and Dr Rob will be ‘Well-Jell’, he’s always wanted to be a SAR Dog Handler.

    Remember: Sport trailing is incredibly rewarding and can be a fantastic business opportunity. However, when it comes to saving lives, that's best left to dedicated SAR professionals. Next time you see a charity collection tin from a SAR team, pop in a few quid, as they are incredibly dedicated volunteers.

  • We want to do our best to make Mantrialing accessible to as many people as possible. It’s a big thanks for asking this important question.

    We believe scent work should be accessible to everyone, and we take great care to support the physical needs of every participant.

    Our trails gradually increase in length and complexity. By week two, you'll be working with trails between 1 and 2 miles long across various surfaces. However, please don't worry, as this isn't about speed or endurance. You'll work at a comfortable pace, and we build in plenty of rest opportunities throughout the day (We do a great line in tea and posh biscuits). There's absolutely no running required; many successful handlers work their dogs at a steady walking pace, as it keeps our instructors happy as well.

    Our experienced team is always ready to adapt and support your needs. While we'll do everything possible to accommodate you in mantrailing, we often recommend our scent detection programme for those with mobility concerns. Scent detection offers equally rewarding and profitable opportunities with fewer physical demands.

    The most important thing is finding the right path for you. Let's discuss your specific needs and find the best option together. Drop us a line, as we are here to help.

  • Hydrotrailing was developed and refined by our own Dr Rob, as part of his Doctoral Research in scent detection, also whilst writing his Mantrailing Book. Hydrotrailing is now a registered trademark of the College. We have received exceptional feedback regarding this innovative training method, which has been characterised by many as a ‘Game-changer’ within the Mantrailing Community. Although we cannot provide a detailed explanation in this context, we invite you to join us to explore the optimal utilisation of this remarkable training advancement that the Mantrailing Community has recently encountered.

  • Yes! While you'll initially qualify in one discipline, we offer opportunities to expand your expertise through additional certifications. You will find that the dog will learn the concepts and apply the best choice, based on its training and instinct. We have often been asked what would make a better search dog: a Tracking dog or a Mantrailing dog. Our answer… Both! Train both disciplines. Even throw in some scent detection, gain all three City & Guilds Pentagons….

FAQ’s Tracking.

Tracking Dog Courses. Tracking Dog and Instructor Dog Training Courses. Tracking Lost Dogs. The College of Scent Dogs Tracking.

  • Yes! Starting in 2026, we will expand our tracking programme to include specific techniques for locating lost dogs, alongside our conservation work. This addition comes from increasing demand and our commitment to providing comprehensive professional skills.

    Our approach is two-fold:
    First, we teach you and your dog the fundamental science and skills of tracking, understanding scent theory, ageing tracks, different surfaces, and environmental factors. These core tracking concepts are essential to start the following process. Let’s master the basics first…

    Then, we dive into the specialised aspects of lost dog tracking:
    • Understanding lost dog behaviour patterns
    • Reading and interpreting different types of dog tracks
    • Environmental factors specific to lost dogs
    • Search strategies and techniques
    • Time-critical decision making
    • Working with distraught owners

    This new module will equip you with valuable skills that can make a real difference in your community. However, remember that each lost dog case is unique and requires careful consideration of multiple factors.

    Want to know more about our 2026 program enhancement? Let's discuss how these additional skills could benefit your business.

  • A Team Track is an innovative training approach that transforms individual tracking into an engaging group experience. Think of it as a tracking relay, where each dog team contributes to completing a longer, more complex track.

    Here's How It Works:
    The instructor lays an extended track with multiple sections ( Our last course finished on a three-mile two two-hour old track!!!). Each handler and their dog work a portion based on their experience level - beginners might tackle shorter, straightforward sections, while more experienced teams handle more challenging parts.

    The Magic of Team Tracking:
    • Dogs work together yet independently, and reactive dogs as well!
    • Handlers support and learn from each other
    • Multiple article finds create success moments
    • Perfect for building confidence
    • Ideal for scenario-based training
    • Creates engaging club sessions

    The Benefits:
    • Builds team spirit in training groups
    • Allows mixed ability participation
    • Maximises training time
    • Creates a supportive learning environment
    • Perfect for dog training clubs
    • Keeps all handlers engaged throughout

    Whether you're running a training club or working with multiple clients, Team Tracks turn individual skills into collaborative success. It's not just training - it's community and team building through scent work!

  • Great tracking instruction isn't about endless space - it's about creating quality learning experiences. Many successful tracking programs operate in limited areas by focusing on skill development rather than distance.

    Pro Tip: Our course will teach you how to:
    • Design creative track layouts
    • Maximise available space
    • Create challenging exercises
    • Build progressive training plans
    • Keep clients engaged in smaller areas

    Sometimes, less space actually means more focused, technical training, it’s perfect for developing solid foundation skills!

  • While you don't need to be an athlete, you should be comfortable walking for several hours and standing for extended periods.

    We highly recommend comphy and waterproof boots, with lateral and linear support. A bit of bad news, it always rains on the tracking course, but we will tailor our inside lectures and presentations to try our best to keep you dry.

FAQs General Bits & Bobs.

The College of Scent Dogs. City & Guilds Training Courses, rofessional dog training courses. Best Dog Training course

  • Think about it! Can you really master the science of scent, perfect your techniques, AND learn to teach others effectively in just a few days?

    Shorter courses might give you a taste of scent detection, but they can't provide:

    • Deep understanding of scent theory and its practical application

    • Time to develop and refine your handling skills

    • Experience with different dogs and various scenarios

    • Mastery of problem-solving techniques

    • Professional teaching methodology

    • Conceptual training strategies

    • Real confidence in your abilities

    True instructor expertise comes from:

    • Practising techniques until they become second nature

    • Understanding WHY methods work, not just HOW

    • Experiencing and solving real training challenges

    • Developing your own teaching style

    • Building genuine confidence through skill and understanding, we don’t run a ‘copy me course’ and hope you can simply reproduce a basic input of knowledge; we train excellent trainers.

    That's why our City & Guilds assured programme spans three weeks. We build confidence and create professional instructors, which requires proper time, depth, and development. We're not interested in quick fixes; we're committed to creating confident and competent professionals who can deliver results.

    Remember: Your future clients will invest their time and money in you. Ensure you're investing enough in yourself to serve them effectively.

  • As a result of Rob’s doctorate, the team specialises in Humanistic learning theories for both dogs and their owners.

    At The College of Scent Dogs, we celebrate diverse thinking and learning styles. Your unique perspective could be your greatest strength in understanding and teaching scent detection work.

    Our approach includes:
    • Choice-based learning that lets you process information your way
    • Written, visual, and practical teaching methods
    • Flexible and safe learning environments
    • Clear, structured progression
    • 1-2-1 support when needed
    • Course materials in various formats
    • Extra time for processing if required
    • Quiet spaces available during training days

    Dr Rob and the team have extensive experience supporting neurodiverse learners, and we'll work with you to identify the learning strategies that work best for you. Many of our most successful graduates think differently, which is often what makes them exceptional instructors.

    Tell us what you need, and we'll ensure you have the support to thrive. Your success is our priority.

  • Your investment includes 15 days of in-person training spaced throughout the year, online support for the length of the programme, course materials, City & Guilds certification, and access to our professional knowledge.

    We do not charge any extra monthly fees or have hidden costs. Once you gain your City & Guilds Digital Credentials, you can use and display these on any digital media, shouting from the rooftops that you have achieved something rather special and unique as a Scent Detection, Tracking or Mantrailing Instructor.

    The logos from City & Guilds will display your knowledge, remember it’s not just another instructor's ‘Home-made’ certificate, it’s City & Guilds Assured.

  • We truly want to ensure you have the best experience possible, but we can’t make guarantees. Our courses are designed to provide you with valuable knowledge, not based on promises like ‘Double your income’ or anything that might feel misleading.

    Let's be straight with you - while our City & Guilds certification can open exciting doors, success depends on how you use these new skills and credentials.

    Our graduates often tell us how this has:
    • Enhanced their professional credibility
    • Enabled them to offer premium services
    • Attracted new clients
    • Set them apart in a crowded market
    • Given them the confidence to grow their business

    However, we believe in honest conversations. This certification isn't a magic wand for instant business success. We see it as a massive knowledge boost and a powerful tool in your professional toolkit. Your ultimate success will depend on your dedication, business skills, and how you implement what you've learned.

    Think of it this way: we provide the expertise, credentials, and support, and you provide the drive and determination to make it work.

    We won't promise guaranteed earnings or instant success. That wouldn't be ethical. What we will promise is quality education, professional recognition, and ongoing support as you build your future in scent detection training.

  • We apologise if this answer seems a bit biased; we truly love what we do!

    When it comes to scent detection training, we don't just set the standard; we are the standard. Here's why:


    • The UK's ONLY City & Guilds assured scent detection establishment
    • Globally recognised certification
    • Force-free, evidence-based training methodology
    • Dr Robert Hewings has a Doctorate of Professional Practice in Scent Detection
    • Award-winning author of Scent Training for Every Dog & Tracking for Every Dog, soon to be released, Mantrailing for Every Dog
    • 60+ years combined police operational experience
    • Unique blend of operational and pet dog expertise

    We share knowledge and train excellent trainers, we provide so much more, and are proud to be the only Assured City & Guilds Scent Detection Establishment in the UK. You will receive meaningful awards, not just a home-printed certificate that will not be recognised on your CV.

    Once you’ve completed your training with us and celebrated your achievement, we want to extend our heartfelt congratulations on your success! We’re here for you every step of the way. There’s no need for a monthly fee to use the knowledge you’ve gained, as we believe you’ve already invested in that. What we truly hope is that you’ll share your expertise and enjoy training scent detection dogs just as much as we do!

  • While accommodation isn't included in your course fee, Tamworth offers plenty of options to suit every preference and budget.


    Right here on site, we offer:
    • Electric hook-ups for motorhomes and caravans
    • Clean, modern shower and toilet facilities
    • Secure parking
    • Big exercise areas perfect for you and your dog
    Contact our site managers at info@statfold.com for availability and rates.

    Local Accommodation:
    Tamworth's prime location near Drayton Manor means you'll find:
    • Dog-friendly hotels
    • Welcoming B&Bs
    • Numerous Airbnb options
    • Budget to luxury choices

    Many of our students enjoy staying locally, often sharing accommodation to split costs and continue discussions after training hours. The area's tourist popularity means you'll find plenty of options year-round.