Scent detection training for dogs - OhMyDog Hondenschool

Basic information about Scent Detection

Location: Vlotlaan 4L, Monster

Number of classes: you can choose between 5 or 10 detection lessons for your dog. (*trial class optional)

Planning: on Wednesday or Saturday

Location: Monster

The location in Monster is specially designed for teaching your dog the detection sport. There are no other dogs or people at the location during your lesson, allowing us to work calmly and with focus.

For whom is detection intended?

In principle, it is possible to do detection with any dog, regardless of age and breed. We find it important that socialization and basic training of the dog take priority before starting this great sport. In general, we therefore recommend first completing a puppy course and obedience training.

What is detection?

In detection, you teach your dog to search for a specific scent source. In hobby detection, herbs are often used as a scent source. The ultimate goal of detection is that you, as the handler, do not know where the scent source is located. By guiding your dog well and reading its behavior, the dog will eventually find and indicate the scent source.

Long term hobby

Detection is a long term hobby for you and your dog. The possibilities are endless. You’ll start with a line-up with about 5 detection boxes, from there we continue with the detection wall, an area search, a vehicle search etc. Because of many difficulty levels in competitions and exams this sport will challenge you for quite some time!

We noticed that Nivi, like most dogs, is curious and explores the world mainly with her nose. At home, we played different games with her using snacks to encourage her to track with her nose. Then we came into contact with OhMyDog and their detection training. Nivi immediately loved it and quickly picked up the first steps. She seems to enjoy using her nose to the fullest! The lessons are very well-structured. You can clearly see that she is using her head and that she enjoys working with me. What I also like is that we are slowly increasing the difficulty level. The training space at OhMyDog offers the perfect learning environment for scent detection in various situations, Nivi are definitely not done searching all the possibilities yet! . For now, we are sure we will continue with the training—highly recommended!

Dotje absolutely loved the detection lessons. She happily jumped out of the car and found the sessions quite exciting. By the time she got up the stairs, she couldn't wait to start searching. She adores Stephanie, who patiently and calmly guided us step by step. With practice at home, Dotje now finds her scent source (star anise) in all kinds of places. We will definitely continue!

We are following detection lessons with OhMyDog with great enthusiasm. The guidance is excellent, and having a fixed location to practice is very helpful! Scheduling appointments is easy, and there are plenty of parking options.

How many dogs in a group?

It’s common to have detection classes in 1-on-1 training.

However, it’s possible to have a scent detection class with two dogs at the same time. For example when you own two dogs or if you would like to attend a detection class with your family or friend. Of course, it’s very important that the dogs know each other and are social to each other. In that case, the fee for the class is €28,50 for 50 minutes per dog.

Your instructor

Stephanie Neijts is OhMyDog’s detection instructor. She is a certified detection instructor at the Nederlandse Detectie Bond (translated: Dutch detection federation).

With her own dog Tara, Stephanie participates in detection exams and competitions. In November 2025 , they won the National Championship in detection (category B).