Canny K9 Companions LLC

Programs are structured in progressive levels: Intro to K9 Nosework (6 weeks), followed by Intro to Odor, Intro to Odor – Exteriors & Vehicles, ORT/NW1, Intermediate, and Advanced classes preparing for NW2, NW3, Elite, and Summit titles. Each level requires completion of the prior level. Classes are 1 hour long, held on weekends, and focus on odor detection in controlled environments. Students may progress to compete in NACSW and AKC trials.

Pricing Summary

Intro to Nosework is a 6-week class at $150; standard 4-week classes are $100. Classes are offered in sessions with limited space, and sign-ups are posted on December 20th for the following year. No pricing is listed for advanced or trial prep classes, but they follow the same session-based structure.

Policies

Classes are often full; sign-ups for new sessions are posted on December 20th each year. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated. Enrollment requires direct email inquiry for availability.

Canny K9 Companions LLC is a dog training business specializing in K9 Nosework, a scent-based activity that taps into a dog’s natural instincts to build confidence, trust, and a stronger bond with their owner. They offer structured group classes ranging from Intro to Nosework to advanced levels preparing dogs for NACSW and AKC trials, including NW1, NW2, NW3, Elite, and Summit titles. Training is conducted using positive, reward-based methods with food or toys as reinforcers, and no prior experience or competition goals are required to join. Classes are held at a private facility and progress through sequential levels, with each class building on the previous one. The business also hosts and organizes nosework trials and events, including NACSW and AKC competitions in Blue Ridge, VA, and surrounding areas.

Instructors guide dogs and handlers through odor detection in various environments — interiors, exteriors, vehicles, and containers — with a focus on fun, mental stimulation, and teamwork. The program supports all dog ages and types, from puppies to seniors, and includes students with diverse breeds including herding, sporting, working, and mixed breeds. The trainer has a long history of helping students earn elite titles and has been active since at least 2012, with documented student achievements dating back to 2016.

Additional services include hosting nosework trials, publishing student success stories, and offering detailed class calendars. While grooming, boarding, walking, or daycare services are not mentioned, the business is deeply embedded in the competitive nosework community and provides a clear pathway from beginner to elite competitor.

Accomplishments

Trainer has guided numerous students to earn NACSW Elite Champion, Summit, ORT, NW1, NW2, NW3, and Elite titles since at least 2016. Notable achievements include multiple Elite Champions (e.g., Sara Cole & Sage, Ann Hogg & Baron), and first-place finishes in regional and national trials. The business has hosted and participated in AKC and NACSW events since 2012, with documented student successes across multiple years.

How to Get Started!

Prospective students must email the trainer to inquire about availability, as most classes fill quickly. New sessions for 2026 begin the week of January 5th, with sign-ups announced on December 20th. Interested parties should contact via email to receive class details and registration information.