Sunshine K9s

Programs focus on K9 Nose Work® and K9 Scent Games, with structured levels from beginner to advanced. Classes are group-based, limited to 7 teams, and require a minimum of 5 to run. Training progresses through odor detection, search types (container, interior, exterior, vehicle, and wilderness), and trial preparation. Competitors can earn titles through NACSW and K9 Scent Games sanctioned events. Classes are ongoing and designed for continuous skill development.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed; classes require a deposit to secure a spot and are offered in sessions with a minimum of 5 dog-handler teams to start. Contact for current rates and package options.

Policies

Classes require a deposit to reserve a spot. A minimum of 5 dog-handler teams is needed to start a class; dates are finalized once attendance is met. Cancellations and make-ups are handled per policy outlined on the website, but specific terms are not detailed in the provided content.

Sunshine K9s is a dog training business specializing in K9 Nose Work and scent work sports for pet dogs, led by certified trainer Rosana Dropkin. Rosana is the most experienced Certified K9 Nose Work Instructor in East Tennessee and has been teaching since 2015, introducing the sport to the region after training with the founders of the sport in 2010. She offers group classes focused on building dogs’ natural scenting abilities through fun, positive reinforcement-based training. Her approach is designed for all dogs—whether owners want to compete in trials or simply enjoy a mentally stimulating activity with their pets. Rosana’s team includes three rescue dogs who have earned advanced titles in NACSW and K9 Scent Games, demonstrating the effectiveness of her methods. She is also Fear Free Certified and a Separation Anxiety Specialist, ensuring a compassionate, low-stress training environment for dogs of all temperaments.

Classes are held at a private facility with a maximum of 7 dog-handler teams per session, requiring a minimum of 5 to start. Rosana emphasizes reading canine behavior, proper rewarding techniques, and preparing handlers for trial scenarios. Her training is rooted in positive reinforcement and tailored to help dogs build confidence and focus through scent work.

In addition to Nose Work, she offers K9 Scent Games training, which includes four levels and five search types, providing structured progression for dogs and owners. Rosana is also a Certified Bio-Detection Dog Trainer and Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, further validating her expertise in canine behavior and training.

Accomplishments

Rosana Dropkin is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), Certified K9 Nose Work Instructor (CNWI), and Certified Bio-Detection Dog Trainer (CBDT). She was among the first group of NACSW-certified instructors in 2011 and served as National Score Room Director and Certifying Official. She introduced K9 Nose Work to East Tennessee in 2015 and has judged NACSW and PSD trials. Her rescue dog Moo was the first in New York State to earn all three NACSW odor ORTs and earned multiple titles including SDA and Iron Nose Awards. Her dog Baron earned Elite 1 status in K9 Scent Games before passing.

How to Get Started!

Interested dog owners must register with a completed form and deposit to secure a spot. Classes begin once a minimum of 5 teams are registered. Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Rosana for availability and to receive registration materials.