Led by professional trainer Scott Wenzel

Training with Purpose and Experience

Expert nosework training in Oakdale, MN - from first sniff to championship titles

Hi, I'm Scott Wenzel — and I've been obsessed with nosework for the past decade.

I started Bark & Bond K9 Scent Sport Center to create the kind of training environment I wished existed when I started in the sport — one where beginners feel welcomed, advanced handlers are challenged, and every dog is celebrated for their unique abilities.

After 10 years of competing and 6 years of teaching, I've learned that great nosework isn't about controlling your dog — it's about partnership. My goal is to help you understand what your dog is telling you and teach them the game in a way that keeps them eager and confident.

Credentials & Experience

  • 10 years training and competing in nosework

  • 6 years professional nosework instruction

  • Active competitor in AKC and NACSW venues

  • Scent Work Judge

  • Trained hundreds of teams from foundation through championship levels

My Approach to Training

Great nosework training isn't about controlling your dog — it's about partnership.

I believe in:

⭐Letting dogs be dogs

Their noses are brilliant. Our job is to stay out of their way while teaching them the game.

⭐Handler education

Your dog probably already knows more than you do. I teach you to read what they're telling you.

⭐Individual progression

Every dog-handler team learns at their own pace. There's no rush.

⭐Positive reinforcement

Nosework should be joyful. The reward builds the drive that makes great search dogs.

⭐Realistic training

We train the way you'll trial. No surprises on competition day.

Why Train at Bark & Bond?

After a decade in the sport and six years teaching, I've learned what actually works.

1

Real-world experience

I've been exactly where you are — confused at my first trial, frustrated when my dog wouldn't alert, thrilled at that first title. I've run these searches myself and know what's hard, what's confusing, and what makes the difference.

2

Technical + Mental

We work on both your handling skills and the confidence to trust your dog under pressure. Competition is as much mental as it is technical.

3

Competition insight

Having competed extensively and judged trials across the Midwest, I can help you understand trial strategy, common pitfalls, and what actually makes searches successful.

4

Personalized approach

What works for one team might not work for another. We adapt to your dog's learning style and your goals — whether that's just having fun or earning Summit.