The Judge’s Eye: Steps to Success in AKC Buried with AKC Judge Ana Cilursu

Think the Buried element is “just a box of sand or water”? Think again.

The Buried Element in AKC Scent Work brings a unique set of challenges that can make or break a run—from subtle odor movement and inaccessible hides to the recent rule changes that affect how searches are set and judged. Whether you’re stepping into Novice or polishing skills at the Master level, this webinar will give you the clarity and strategy you need to train smarter, trial with confidence, and avoid costly mistakes.

Join AKC Judge, Ana Cilursu, for a deep dive into what really matters in Buried searches—how odor behaves, how skills evolve across levels, and how to build a progressive training plan that supports both your dog and your handling. You’ll leave with practical insights you can apply immediately, plus the chance to get your specific questions answered in a live, interactive Q&A.

What we will cover!

• Effects of recent changes to the regulations on preparation of hides and execution of searches
• Understand the different skill sets per level
• Recognize the unique features of inaccessible/submerged hides and how they impact odor availability
• Understand odor movement within and around the bins
• Develop a training and trialing plan to build progressive team skills
• Avoid common pitfalls that can lead to faults or NQs
• Opportunity to ask questions in an Interactive Q&A session with the presenter

This is perfect opportunity for handlers training for and competing in AKC Buried element, instructors who incorporate Buried searches in their training programs, and AKC judges and trial committee members who are involved with trials in this element.

ABOUT ANA...

Ana began her journey in Nosework in 2015, when she started training with her first nosework dog as a form of recovery after undergoing orthopedic surgery. This experience sparked her passion for the sport and set the foundation for her continued involvement.

Since 2020, Ana has served as an AKC Scent Work judge, bringing her expertise and dedication to the sport’s competitive scene. She has also played a significant role in education and mentorship, volunteering as a Training Assistant for numerous classes led by Stacy Barnett at Fenzi Dog Sports Academy (FDSA) starting in September 2018. In this capacity, Ana has coached many teams online through a variety of study groups, helping handlers and their dogs develop their scent work skills.

Ana is the owner of Rotts-n-Notts Nosework, where she offers individualized in-person and online coaching sessions, as well as seminars, workshops, and webinars designed to support handlers at all levels. Additionally, she acts as an NACSW event host, organizing and facilitating various nosework competitions.

Since September 2023, Ana has been teaching weekly Nosework classes at the Staten Island Companion Dog Training Club in Staten Island, NY. Through these classes, she shares her knowledge and passion for nosework with club members and their dogs.

Ana currently trains and competes with her young Rottweiler, “Vi,” at the NACSW Elite and AKC Excellent Elite and Master levels. Her older Rottweiler, “Axel,” has retired from competition after earning his NACSW Elite and AKC Master Scentwork titles, further highlighting Ana’s commitment and success in the sport.

Can’t attend live?

THIS WEBINAR IS BEING RECORDED.

As long as you pre-register you will receive a link to the recording afterwards.

NOTE: This webinar is being hosted on the Zoom Platform which is different than the platform that I used to use.

This recording will be uploaded to the Vimeo platform Please expect the recording link to be emailed within 24 hours. You will have 1 year to view the VIMEO recording.