Learn to Track (Handler Place)

Learn to Track – 4-Hour Beginner Workshop

Hosted by K9 Manhunt & Scentwork Scotland
Suitable for: Beginners and those curious about starting tracking with their dog
Duration: 4 hours (with short breaks)
Handlers: Max 8 | Spectators welcome | Fun, inclusive learning environment

Pre-Workshop Requirements for Handlers:
• A well-fitted tracking or Y-front harness
• A 10-metre lead (available for purchase if needed)
• Super high-value treats or a reward your dog will work hard for
• A sense of humour – absolutely essential
• Dogs must be able to wait quietly in your vehicle when not working

Workshop Syllabus

10:00 – 10:30 | Welcome & Introduction
• Meet and greet: introductions
• Overview of the day: what to expect, structure, goals
• What is Tracking?
• Definition and purpose of tracking
• Real-world applications (SAR, sport, enrichment)
• Tracking vs Mantrailing vs Scent Detection
• Key differences in odour sourcing, handler involvement, line handling
• Video or live demonstration snippet if possible

10:30 – 11:00 | Equipment Talk & Handling Skills
• Introduction to tracking gear:
• Harness types and fitting
• Lead length and lead management
• Flags, articles, scent pads
• Track Line Techniques
• How to handle the long line safely and effectively
• Maintaining connection without interference
• Handler body language, posture, and pressure

11:00 – 11:45 | Laying Your First Tracks – Introduction Methods

Participants will learn and try 2–3 ways to introduce tracking:
1. Circle Method – ideal for visual clarity and surface imprint
2. Track-Laying with Food Drops/Lids/Articles – encourages nose-down behaviour
3. Article Drop Method – introducing article indication early
4. Scent Pad Method - ideal for visual clarity and surface imprint
• Explanation of each method’s pros and cons
• When to use each one based on dog type, drive, and terrain
• Handlers split into pairs or small groups for practice (rotation format)

Short Break (15 mins)

12:00 – 13:15 | Practical Application – Field Work on Soft Surfaces
• Participants lay short beginner tracks for their own or a partner’s dog
• Tracks will vary slightly in layout to reflect different goals:
• Straight lines with food drops
• Slight curves and basic corners
• Track-laying using scent pad + article reward
• Each team will track their own dog under supervision
• Instructors give feedback on:
• Line handling
• Dog body language
• Reward timing and placement

13:15 – 13:45 | Transitioning to Urban Tracking
• Challenges of harder surfaces (concrete, tarmac, gravel)
• Environmental scent contamination and odour pooling
• Tips for urban transition:
• Short, aged tracks
• Crossing footpaths and roads
• Use of articles to reinforce motivation
• Real-world scenarios and when to start adding complexity

13:45 –1 4:00 | Q&A, Summary, and Next Steps
• Recap key takeaways
• Q&A session with open discussion
• Opportunities for further training and 1:1 support
• Signposting to follow-up workshops and progressive tracking courses
• Feedback forms and group photo (optional but fun)

Additional Info

Spectators:
Welcome to observe all elements of the workshop. Ideal for those unsure if tracking is right for their dog, or those waiting to join a future workshop.

Provided by Us:
• Tracking flags and scent articles
• Training aids and visual demonstrations