Episode 128. Scent Work for Dogs: How to start, Why it Matters & Easy Games to Try with Dianna Santos of Scent Work University

Has your dog played the sniffy game yet today?

Today we’re joined by Dianna Santos, founder of Scent Work University, to explore one of the most powerful — and fun — activities you can do with your dog: scent work. Whether you’ve heard it called nose work or scent work, this enriching game taps into your dog’s natural superpower — their incredible sense of smell.

We’ll dive into why scent work is especially beneficial for reactive and fearful dogs, including how it has helped my own nervous senior guy. Dianna explains how scent work provides the kind of mental stimulation that can actually tire dogs out faster than physical exercise, making it a great option for any lifestyle.

You’ll also learn simple ways to get started at home with easy games, plus tips for introducing scent work to puppies, seniors, and even dogs with special needs.

Whether you’re curious about enriching your dog’s daily life, looking for ways to support a reactive pup, or simply want a fun new activity to strengthen your bond, this episode will show you how scent work can transform your relationship with your dog — and why it’s the most important game you’re not playing yet.

Dianna & I discuss:

  • Her childhood dog and her career journey to becoming a dog trainer;

  • Is there a difference between nose work and scent work?;

  • How Dianna began scent work with her own dogs;

  • Why is scent work so beneficial for reactive dogs;

  • How scent work has helped Erin’s fearful senior dog;

  • How odor travels;

  • Competitive versus professional versus for fun;

  • History of the sport of nose work;

  • An easy way to get started play a scent work game in your house;

  • Scent work for dogs with special needs;

  • How scent work is more mentally stimulating and will tire your dog out faster than physical activity;

  • Tips to get started doing scent work with your dog;

  • Are there dogs who shouldn’t do scent work?

  • Scent work for puppies and seniors;

  • The most impressive sniffs Dianna has seen

Find Dianna & Scent Work University:

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