Training phase

In the training phase, a number of points are important:

  • Building motivation so the dog will love to work.
  • A step by step approach, gradual increase in the level of difficulty.
  • Specific exercises are trained seperate.
  • Practising double blind trails; without support.
  • Reality, remaining within the limits of what is feasible.
  • Working on leash handling skills.

Pictures by Julia d’Ailly 

Motivation

A dog that is moving a lot is not necessarily a dog with a lot of drive and motivation. Often that dog is just too excited to work. We believe that motivation is related to a conscious focus for a task.

To create the right focus, we strive for a good balance between:

  • Confidence
  • Emotion
  • Arousal
  • Motivation

Step-by-step approach

Variations

If the handler recognizes the behavior of his dog on a basic trail ánd is able  to see if the dog has lost the trail, variations are added. For instance:

  • Surface changes: from sandy soil, grass, woods, to trailing on hard surfaces, such as paving stones, pebbles, gravel, asphalt, sidewalks and gutters.
  • Crossing roads and paths.
  • Strong winds from various directions: dispersal of the trail.
  • Decoy scent of other animals and other dogs!
  • Distractions such as traffic, screaming kids but also people with other dogs, etc.
  • Trailing near obstacles such as buildings.
  • The age of the trail before it is pursued.

Double-blind

Reality

Leash handling