top of page

Introducing ScentMasters UK | Scentwork and Detection Dog Training

Hi, I’m Tom — trainer, coach, consultant, and the person behind ScentMasters UK.

I set up ScentMasters because I believe Scentwork deserves more than shortcuts and surface-level success.

Whether you’re working towards your first Scentwork Competition, handling in an operational role, or simply want to give your dog the challenge and enrichment they were born for — Scentwork offers something truly special. Done well, it builds confidence, clarity, and connection between dog and handler.


That’s what ScentMasters UK is all about.


A Bit About Me


I’ve spent over 20 years in the detection dog world — from military deployments to high-profile security work to helping others develop their own capability. I’ve trained teams, assessed dogs, judged trials, and helped shape national training plans.


Soldier in camouflage rests against a truck, holding a dog in a sandy, rocky setting. Vehicles with netting line the background. Peaceful mood.
The return leg from a long desert op. Afghanistan 2007

Over the years, I’ve seen where certain training techniques excel — and where they fall away. Experience has taught me which methods hold up under pressure, and which ones tend to unravel in the real world.


Man kneels on grass, gestures while training a brown dog wearing a harness. Playground equipment in the background under cloudy sky.
Explaining Fundamentals during a workshop 2025

More recently, I’ve returned to the training space with fresh eyes and a real focus on getting the fundamentals right.

I’m not here to reinvent Scentwork. I’m here to offer structured, clear, proven training that brings out the best in both dog and handler — whether you’re a pro or just getting started.


What Makes This Training Different?


At ScentMasters UK, I focus on:


  • Clear search systems – not just searching, but understanding how dogs problem-solve

  • Back-chained training – so dogs know what success looks like, right from the start

  • Reward strategies that build team engagement – not just toy possession

  • Coaching that supports the handler as much as the dog


The goal is to build dogs that are obedient to odour, not reliant on cues. And to help handlers feel confident in their role, whatever their background.


A man gestures to a black dog wearing "IN TRAINING" harness, inspecting a truck wheel. The scene is outdoors, against a green fence.
Training an 8 mth old Lab for work on the UK/French Border

Who Is This For?


  • Competitive handlers (e.g. Scentwork UK, operational assessments)

  • Detection dog professionals looking to troubleshoot or develop further

  • Pet dog owners who want a more meaningful way to work their dog’s nose

  • Clubs or organisations looking for workshops, seminars, or support


Two men, one in uniform, are training a German Shepherd in an urban area with buildings in the background. The dog wears a neon harness.
Debriefing UN Security after a search in Ethiopia 2013

Whether your dog’s searching for a Kong, Clove, or Class A substance — the principles don’t change. It’s about building a reliable, motivated dog who knows how to work scent and trusts the process.

If that sounds like your kind of training, stick around. I’ll be using this blog to share insights, case studies, lessons from the field, and practical tips for handlers at all levels.


Thanks for being here. Let’s get started.

– Tom

Yellow dog sniffing above "ScentMastersUK Dog Training" text in green and black on a white background. The design conveys focus.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page