Our mission

About CNASA

Our purpose

A national standard for a welcoming sport.

The Canine Nosework Association of South Africa (CNASA) is the national association dedicated to the development, promotion, and advancement of canine nosework as a sport in South Africa. Established to provide a welcoming and inclusive community for dog and handler teams, CNASA creates opportunities for dogs of all breeds, ages, and abilities to participate in scent detection activities that celebrate the extraordinary power of the canine nose.

At the heart of CNASA is a commitment to fostering positive partnerships between dogs and their handlers through fair, ethical, and rewarding nosework experiences. We provide nationally recognised standards, qualifications, and titles that allow teams to progress from foundational scent recognition through increasingly challenging levels of competition. These include the Odour Recognition Test (ORT) and Nosework Levels 1–3, with advanced levels such as Detective and Elite.

CNASA believes that nosework should be accessible to everyone. Our events are designed to encourage participation in a supportive environment where dogs can work confidently and safely. We welcome dogs with different physical and behavioural needs, recognising that every dog deserves the opportunity to engage in meaningful scent work.

Through accredited trials, experienced judges, certified officials, and a nationwide network of organisers and members, CNASA works to maintain high standards for the sport while ensuring that enjoyment, sportsmanship, and the welfare of dogs remain our highest priorities.

Whether you are new to scent work, an experienced competitor, or simply looking for an enriching activity to enjoy with your dog, CNASA provides a pathway for learning, achievement, and community.

The people and dogs of CNASA

Built around the bond.

Nosework may happen one search at a time, but the sport grows through a generous community—handlers learning together, dogs gaining confidence, and every find being celebrated.

Move across the community

An alert Australian Shepherd waits beside their handler — Ready

A dog and handler work through a shaded garden search area — Together

A handler and dog pause together in a garden search area — Trust

A dog searches a stacked stone feature with their handler close behind — Curiosity

A handler rewards her dog beside a vehicle search area — Reward

A dog searches a row of boxes in a garden — Focus

A dog works through a container search inside a home — Discovery

A dog searches boxes in a miniature streetscape — Play

The honours wall

Levels & Badges

Every dog and handler team progresses through CNASA's nationally recognised qualification ladder — earning a badge at each level along the way, from a first Odour Recognition Test through to Elite.