Mantrailing is a canine sport where a dog is taught to find a person by following that person’s scent trail. While on a harness and long line, the dog follows the scent trail of a designated person (the Trail Layer) who walks out of sight. The dog may air scent or footstep track to follow the scent.
Mantrailing differs from other scenting activities.
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Mantrailing is a sport where the dog searches for a person.
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Nosework is a sport where the dog searches for specific scent oils.
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AKC Tracking is a sport where the dog searches for a glove or dropped personal articles.
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Military Dogs are operational dogs who search for explosives, drugs, etc.
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Police Dogs are operational dogs who search for criminals, drugs, etc.
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Search & Rescue Dogs are operational dogs who typically search for people dead or alive.
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(We are not training operational dogs.)
Mantrailing could be described as playing Hide ‘N Seek with a dog! The dog’s job is to find a person. There are many variations of the trail and of trailing for the dog to learn.
Mantrailing is a reinforcement-based activity that is enriching and mentally stimulating for dogs of all ages. It’s suitable for dogs of any breed! Every successful trail builds confidence and motivation in a dog.
It also taps into the dog's strong ability to use their nose. If your dog can find a treat that rolled under the couch two days ago, there’s a good chance he could follow the scent of a person who walked away a few minutes ago.
The Introduction Workshop is the dog’s first step. This is where you will learn your dog’s level of interest in the sport, as well as your own!