| We've all seen countless
movies of dogs following the trail of an escapee through swamps. The
AKC's Tracking Trials allow dogs to demonstrate their natural ability to
recognize and follow human scent. This vigorous outdoor activity is
great for canine athletes. Unlike Obedience events that require a dog to
qualify 3 times, a dog must successfully complete only one track to earn
his title.
 Tracking
Dog: A dog earns a TD by following a track laid by a human from 30
minutes to 2 hours before. The rules describe certain turns in a 440 to
500 yard track.
Tracking Dog Excellent: A TDX is earned
by following an "older" (3 to 5 hours), longer (800 to 1,000
yard) track with more turns while overcoming both physical and scenting
obstacles.
Variable Surface Tracking: In the real
world, dogs track through urban settings, as well as through wilderness.
A VST dog has demonstrated this ability by following a 3 to 5 hours-old
track that may take him down a street, through a building and other
areas devoid of vegetation.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Sounds like fun and you want to get
going. Here are some ideas and resources:
(1) Don't wait! Puppy kindergarten classes are designed for 2 to 5 month
old dogs and really focus on the very basics of training. Many basic
training classes start puppies at 5 to 6 months of age. And just like
kids, puppies pick up lessons very quickly when
learning is made into a fun game.
(2) Your local dog club may hold
classes taught by people knowledgeable in the sport that can help you
train for these exercises. There are 5 kinds of dog clubs to check out:
Obedience Clubs, Tracking Clubs, All-Breed Clubs (devoted to the entire
dog experience), Group Clubs (devoted to a variety group, like Toys or
Terriers), and Local Specialty Clubs (devoted to one breed). There may
be one or all in your area that holds classes and publishes newsletters
with articles. Getting involved with a club can teach you many more
things about your dog that can be helpful.
Courtesy of the www.akc.org |
