In NASDA’s Lost Item Online program, handlers must select and place handler-scented lost items for their dog to find. These items must meet specific criteria and be categorized correctly to ensure a valid submission.

This module will cover approved lost items, proper scenting methods, and best practices for selecting and preparing search items for video submission.

1. Understanding Approved Lost Items

Each Lost Item Online submission must include a unique item from the approved list.

There are four item categories, and handlers must select at least one item from each when working toward a title.

✔ Handler’s Choice items may be submitted for approval before use to ensure they meet the appropriate category requirements.

🔹 MLIOCH (Master Lost Item Online Champion) Requirement – To earn this title, teams must complete searches using every item from the approved list.

2. Properly Scenting a Lost Item

All lost items must be scented with handler odor only. This ensures the dog is locating items based on a consistent scent profile.

Scenting Best Practices

✅ Handle the item directly before placement in the search area.
✅ Avoid excessive washing—mildly used items carry the strongest scent.
✅ Avoid cross-contaminating with food, strong perfumes, or other dog scents.

Important: The scent source must not include additional odors such as essential oils, food, or another person’s scent.

3. Selecting the Right Items for Each Search

A. Choosing Items That Are Appropriate for the Search Area

• Ensure the item fits naturally in the environment (e.g., a wallet in a living room, a hat in a coatroom).
• For outdoor searches, consider weight and stability—lightweight items may move in the wind.
• Select sturdy items that won’t break or be damaged by environmental factors.

B. Avoiding Repetitive Item Use

• Each submission must use a different item from the approved list.
• LIO-II and LIO-III must use different items than those used in LIO-I.
• The final item for each title cannot repeat any previous category selections.

4. Handling and Placing the Item Without Contamination

Once an item is scented, proper handling is key to maintaining a clean scent profile.

A. Best Practices for Item Placement

✔ Use clean hands or wear gloves when placing the item.
✔ Do not touch surrounding surfaces (e.g., avoid brushing against walls, furniture, or objects).
✔ Ensure the item is not easily visible from the start line.
✔ Consider airflow and scent movement—items placed near vents, open doors, or fans may create unintended scent trails.

B. Avoiding Common Mistakes

🚫 Do not place items in locations that are unsafe for the dog.
🚫 Avoid handling the item excessively before hiding to prevent transferring scent to multiple locations.
🚫 Do not use items with strong residual odors (laundry detergent, perfumes, or smoke exposure).

5. Preparing Items for Video Submission

Before filming, double-check that:
✅ The correct category item is being used.
✅ The item is properly scented and hasn’t been contaminated with external odors.
✅ The item is well-placed according to NASDA guidelines.
✅ The course walkthrough clearly shows the item before the run begins.

Conclusion

Selecting and preparing search items correctly ensures fair and consistent searches. By following these guidelines, handlers can confidently submit Lost Item Online runs that meet NASDA standards and set their dogs up for success.