Dog Community

Tracking and Scent Work - Can it be self taught?

Posted : 6/25/2009 4:51:09 AM

Do you need to go to a class or trainer to teach tracking and scent work, or can you do it yourself with books/internet/DVD's?

Obviously if you want to do it formally/competitively you would need to be getting expert tuition.

But if you just want to try it out to have fun with your dog and see how it goes, is it possible and is there a good book/guide to help you start?

mrv

Posted : 6/25/2009 5:12:59 AM

Get the book by Johnson and follow it exactly. Dont skip any steps or change any procedures. This is aimed at the type of skill needed for an AKC tracking title (trail following, not air scenting)

TRACKING DOG - THEORY AND METHODS, 5TH EDITION
by Glen Johnson

Publisher: Arner Publications
Edition: 2003 Paperback, 210 pages

ISBN: 0914124048

Summary: A classic is available again! A must for anyone who wants their dog to be successful in tracking. From the master, Glen Johnson.

Expanded Description:

Long considered the "bible" of tracking, it is a pleasure to be able to offer this classic again! When written, it was the first complete guide to successful tracking training for both novice and expert. It includes training for both TD and TDX, as well as a trainer's handbook section. Theory is in-depth and understandable; methods may be too intensive for some. Deals with specific problems in a way that makes solutions obvious.

Liesje

Posted : 6/25/2009 7:42:22 AM

I think it can largely be self-taught if you stick with it and don't go too fast. We're in Schutzhund training and still most of our tracking is self-taught. The TD shows us each step in the process. I used to be doing 3 scent pads a day at home. Now we are doing 1-2 scent pads and then a track. SchH is a little different though, we have to teach the dog to track every foot step with his nose on the ground. There is a SchH tracking web site I use that fits with how my TD trains and gives step-by-step instruction.

Workingdoglover

Posted : 6/26/2009 6:59:05 PM

Liesje
There is a SchH tracking web site I use that fits with how my TD trains and gives step-by-step instruction.

Please, do share! :D

I think its good to have an actual person there to explain things to you and show you how things work, but if you're just wanting to have some fun, I say go for it! I know its hard to find other people who are interested in that kind of thing, depending on where you are.