How to Make a Scent Wheel for Detection Dogs

Dogs have been known to detect everything from cancer to narcotics, and their ability to do so is inarguable. Search and rescue dogs are exalted for their life-saving abilities, and a bomb-detecting dog has the ability to keep thousands from harm's way. A scent detection wheel plays an integral part in the training of these master sniffers.

  1. The Basics of the Base

    • Construction of a scent wheel isn't difficult, but you'll need specific items to create a wheel that provides the results your scent-training dog will benefit from. Begin by selecting a base, and the right choice may be dictated by your dog. A dog who tends to seek with his mouth or paws will benefit from a sturdy wood base, such as a lazy Susan. A dog without these tendencies would do fine with a plastic base. The base will need to spin, so if you choose plastic, you'll need to attach your plastic to a small circle of scrap wood with a bearing assembly.

    For Good Measure

    • Once you have your base, you'll need to prepare it for the cylinders, which will eventually hold the scents. Lay out your cylinders, and once you have the correct number, measure your layout so that each cylinder will be equal distance apart. The cylinders will run along the outermost edge of the base. Mark the location of each cylinder with a marker.

    The Nose Knows

    • The cylinders will need to be fashioned properly so your dog will be able to detect what's inside. Old film cylinders are suitable, as are small prescription bottles, as long as they have been cleaned and sanitized. The finished product will have the cylinders upside down on the base. When using a wood base, you'll need to drill a hole through the lid and bottom of the cylinder. If you're using a plastic base, you'll only need a hole drilled in the bottom. This will eventually become the top of the cylinder.

    Getting Attached

    • Once the cylinders are prepared, it's time to fasten them to the base. If you're using a plastic base, epoxy or glue the cylinders into place. If you're using a wooden base, screw the lids into place. Once the lids are secure, the cylinders can be screwed into the fastened lids. Before you sign off on your final product, make sure there are no rough spots on your wood or plastic cylinders. These can injure your canine pupil.