Question 1

What is Mantrailing?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing is a game where dog-handler teams track people by scent.
It uses a dog's natural abilities to meet their needs for mental and physical stimulation.
Mantrailing Central West offers Mantrailing as a fun sport for you and your dog to enhance your relationship and explore together 
Our focus is recreational Mantrailing, not operational Search & Rescue, ensuring a stress-free, enriching experience for your dog.

Question 2

Can my dog participate?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing is a low-impact dog sport teaching dogs to follow a specific scent trail at their own pace.

It's suitable for dogs of all sizes, ages, breeds, and even those with disabilities.

Question 3

How do we start?

Accepted Answer

Enrolling in our Introduction Workshop provides an overview of mantrailing and is the best place to get started!

Whether you're a new pet caregiver or enhancing your skills, our trainers offer valuable insights for a harmonious relationship with your dog.

Question 4

What kind of commitment is involved?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing begins with an Introduction workshop that sets the foundation for your dog's training. 
Post-workshop, you can attend sessions as per your schedule and your dog's needs. We offer flexible scheduling, including weekdays and weekends.

Question 5

What if my dog isn't comfortable around other dogs or people?

Accepted Answer

We are pleased to welcome human and/or dog reactive dogs to our Mantrailing sessions!

Each dog is worked individually and kept under control on a longline at all times. This ensures that your dog does not have to interact with unfamiliar people or dogs, making it an ideal activity for nervous or ‘reactive’ dogs.

Please ensure that any specific behavioral needs or concerns are communicated to us in advance so we can provide the best possible experience for your dog.

Question 6

Do we need any previous training experience to participate?

Accepted Answer

No previous training is necessary to attend Mantrailing sessions with us!

One of the key aspects of Mantrailing is that the dog is kept on a longline, so there is no need for them to have a good recall. This makes it an excellent activity for dogs of all skill levels and caregivers new to dog training.

We do, however,  ask that you inform your instructor of any behavioural issues your dog may have before attending a session. This ensures a safe and positive experience for both you and your pet, and allows the instructor to tailor the training to meet your dog's specific needs.

Question 7

What equipment is needed?

Accepted Answer

You will need a 8-10 meter longline, a Y-front harness for your dog and LOTS AND LOTS of food rewards.

If you don't have this equipment, contact your instructor to borrow some.

Also, bring a scent article! This is a small piece of fabric or clothing that has touched your skin for at least 10 minutes - think beanie, scarf, gloves etc.

Question 8

Does my dog need to wait in the car between turns?

Accepted Answer

Your dog will return to your vehicle between ‘turns’. This allows time to rest and process what they have learnt in their sessions.

You will also be asked to participate as a "trail layer" for other dog-handler trails. This experience will enhance your learning and give  you a broader understanding of the Mantrailing process.

Question 9

Can I bring a friend or family member?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring a friend or family member!

Extra Trail Layers or Mispers (volunteers who hide for the dogs) make sessions more engaging and effective.
They can also supervise dogs in cars between training turns.

For human reactive dogs, we suggest bringing a family or friend for them to find rather than another class mate.

For handling the dog, speak directly to your instructor to ensure proper procedures and safety.

Question 10

What is the difference between Mantrailing and Tracking?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing  simulates hunting, using your dog's scent detection, focus, and tracking skills to follow a human trail. It engages their physical and mental abilities while building a closer bond, promoting teamwork, confidence, focus, and overall well-being. It is designed for fun only and is non-competitive.

Tracking is a trained behavior where dogs follow footsteps and ground disturbances. Often used for competition and professional SAR activities

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