Fred Helfers

Fred Helfers offers structured Nosework and scent detection training programs through books, ebooks, journals, video tutorials, and live webinars. Programs progress from foundational skills to advanced detection tasks. He provides certification pathways through NACSW and ACSW, and offers instructor training. Training is designed for individual dogs and handlers, with emphasis on odor recognition, handler communication, and real-world application.

Pricing Summary

Books and training equipment are priced individually: The Nosework Handler print version $25, ebook $15, Performance Journal $15. K9-Remote Reward System and detection equipment available for purchase. Seminars and consultations require direct contact for pricing.

Policies

Warranty and return policy available on website for products. Seminar and consultation cancellations require direct contact. No specific policy details provided for training sessions.

Fred Helfers is a nationally and internationally recognized K9 detection dog expert with over 40 years of experience training detection dogs for law enforcement, fire departments, and civilian teams. He specializes in Nosework and K9 Scent Detection, teaching dogs to locate specific odors using their natural hunting instincts. His training methods are grounded in science and proven techniques developed through decades of fieldwork and research. Fred is the author of “The Nosework Handler” and inventor of the patented K9-Remote Reward System, designed to enhance scent detection training. He offers training resources including books, ebooks, performance journals, and equipment for dog owners, instructors, and professionals. While he primarily serves as a trainer and educator for detection work, his programs are accessible to pet owners seeking fun, confidence-building scent games for dogs of all temperaments, including fearful or reactive dogs.

Fred provides seminars, webinars, and consultations for individuals and organizations seeking to elevate their detection dog programs. His training philosophy emphasizes positive, odor-focused methods that allow dogs to work independently and succeed regardless of breed, size, or past behavioral challenges.

He also offers certified instructor training and certification for Nosework through NACSW and ACSW, making him a trusted authority for both pet owners and professional handlers.

Accomplishments

Fred Helfers has over 40 years of experience training detection dogs, served 25+ years in law enforcement, trained thousands of canines across multiple detection specialties, and was the contracted state trainer for Oregon State Police for 20 years. He developed double-blind certification protocols now used nationally, served on OSAC’s Dogs and Sensors Subcommittee (2014–2024), founded the Pacific Northwest Police Detection Dog Association, and is a certified judge and certifying official for NACSW and ACSW. He is the author of internationally recognized training materials and inventor of a patented scent training system.

How to Get Started!

Begin by exploring free training videos and webinars on the website. Purchase “The Nosework Handler” book or ebook to start training. Contact Fred via email or phone to schedule a consultation, seminar, or expert training session.