NASDA Workshops & Training

Our NASDA Lost Item workshops introduce dogs and handlers to searching for an item carrying the handler’s scent. 

Each workshop is approximately two hours long and combines instruction, demonstrations and opportunities for working teams to practise the skills.

Both working spots and audit spots are available.

Working teams attend with their dogs and participate in the workshop exercises. Dogs remain in the training room throughout the workshop, so they must be comfortable settling and working with other dogs present.

Audit spots are available for people who would like to learn the exercises without bringing a dog. Auditors can observe the workshop, ask questions and take what they learn home to practise with their own dogs.

This introductory workshop helps dogs and handlers begin developing the foundations of a Lost Item search. We will introduce the search activity, help dogs understand the task and give handlers practical exercises they can continue working on at home.

No previous NASDA or scent-work experience is required.

This follow-up workshop builds on the foundations introduced in Getting Started. Teams will continue developing the dog’s understanding of the search, strengthen the search process and work toward greater independence and confidence.

Dogs attending Workshop 2 should already have been introduced to the Lost Item activity through Workshop 1 or equivalent training.