Fun, rewarding scent work classes that build confidence, strengthen the bond between you and your dog, and provide enrichment they'll love. John Sam
Head Trainer
John has always shared his life with dogs and has long been involved in training through local dog clubs. While his professional background began in IT — holding a Master’s Degree in Information Technology — his passion ultimately led him down a very different path. In 2016, John discovered Nose Work, and it was a turning point. After seeing the profound benefits this activity had for his own reactive Labrador, he became deeply committed to learning more about scent work and its impact on canine confidence, behaviour, and wellbeing. What started as a personal journey quickly became a professional calling. John has been training dogs professionally since 2017 and is the founder of Canberra Nosework Training. Qualifications and professional memberships:
• Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI) — one of the first in Australia
• ANKC Foundation Scent Work Judge
• Qualified Canine Behaviour Practitioner
• Diploma in Canine Behaviour (International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour)
• Member of the Pet Professional Guild Australia
Amy Smith
Head Trainer
Amy has shared her life with dogs for as long as she can remember, but her journey into dog training — and later scent work — began when a tiny bundle of chaos came into her life. Little Comet arrived fearful and anxious, struggling to cope in the big, overwhelming human world. Outside of home, he communicated with his teeth. Inside, he was playful, affectionate, and full of joy. Like many guardians of complex dogs, Amy found herself excluded from many of the activities dog owners are told they should be able to enjoy with their dogs. With a background in horse training, Amy knew there had to be a better way. That search led her to K9 Nose Work® and training alongside John. Scent work allowed Comet to tap into his natural instincts, helping him find calm, confidence, and purpose in a world that had once overwhelmed him. Today, Amy and Comet are successfully trialling in scent work games, building a partnership grounded in trust and communication. Comet’s younger sisters, Cricket and Bowie, have since joined the fun and are following closely in his pawprints. Qualifications and professional memberships:
• Associate Nose Work Instructor (ANWI)
• National Dog Trainers Federation qualified trainer
• Certified Family Dog Mediator®
• Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals
