Article · 5 min read
Quick fixes when your dog gets stuck
Sometimes your dog may not understand the game straight away. They may get distracted, lose interest, or search without finding the scent.
This is normal, especially for new dogs.
The goal is not to test your dog. The goal is to help them succeed.
What you need
- Your dog on lead
- Small, high-value treats or a favourite toy
- The scent source provided at the park
- A calm attitude
- Willingness to make the search easier
Problem 1: My dog ignores the scent
Go back to scent imprinting.
Let your dog sniff the scent source, then reward immediately.
Repeat a few times before starting the search again.
Use better rewards if needed. The scent needs to feel valuable to your dog.
Problem 2: My dog is too distracted
Move away from strong distractions if you can.
Common distractions include:
- Other dogs
- People
- Food smells
- Bins
- Play equipment
- Busy paths
Give your dog a moment to settle, then restart with a short scent imprint.
Problem 3: My dog keeps looking at me
Your dog may be waiting for help.
Stand still for a moment, relax the lead, and let them investigate.
Avoid pointing, tapping, or walking straight to the answer.
Give your dog time to use their nose.
Problem 4: My dog searches but cannot find it
Make the search easier.
Move calmly through the search area and let your dog check one section at a time.
If your dog still struggles, return to the scent source, do a few quick sniff-and-reward repetitions, then try again.
Problem 5: My dog finds it but does not indicate clearly
Reward clear interest at the scent source.
Your dog does not need a perfect sit, paw, or stare at the beginning.
If they sniff the correct spot, stop, return to it, or show focused interest, reward them close to the scent.
The indication will become clearer with practice.
Problem 6: My dog loses interest
Stop before the session becomes frustrating.
Do one easy sniff-and-reward repetition, then finish positively.
Short, successful sessions are better than long sessions where your dog becomes bored or confused.
Key tip
If your dog gets stuck, make the task easier.
A successful easy search builds more confidence than a difficult search that ends in frustration.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not keep repeating the same hard search.
- Do not pull your dog to the answer.
- Do not get frustrated if your dog is distracted.
- Do not use low-value rewards if your dog is not interested.
- Do not make the session too long.
When your dog is ready to continue
Your dog is ready to keep searching when they:
- Re-engage with the scent
- Take rewards happily
- Start sniffing again
- Show curiosity in the search area
- Stay relaxed and interested
