The reward is the holy grail for your hardworking, mantrailing dog. With these tips, you'll not only have a motivated dog but also one that's excited and eager to get trailing.
What's is a Reward?
In the context of dog training, the term "reward" refers to a positive reinforcement given to a dog following a desired behaviour. This reinforcement can be in the form of treats, praise, toys, or any other stimulus that the dog finds pleasurable. The purpose of a reward is to encourage the repetition of the desired behaviour by associating it with something enjoyable for the dog.
Mantrailing Rewards: Not Just Any Old Treat
When it comes to mantrailing, any old reward just won't cut it. Your dog is putting in serious effort, so the payoff needs to be top-notch. We've all witnessed our pups catch an animal scent during a walk and switch into full-on hunting mode. Even if they do chase, they seldom make that victorious catch, unlike in mantrailing where we guarantee that win. But here’s the catch: the reward must be worth it for your dog. Imagine winning the lottery and only getting a penny—not exciting at all, and I bet you’d think twice about buying another ticket!
Food: The Classic Reward
When it comes to mantrailing, food tends to be the go-to reward. Why? Because it taps into your dog's primal hunting instincts. They hunt, they catch, they eat, just like their ancestors. In mantrailing terms, they trail, they find, they feast. Even dogs that aren’t usually food-driven suddenly become chowhounds when they’re trailing. Who knew dog training could be so delicious?
However, generally, your everyday training treats aren’t going to cut it, it’s simply not of high enough value. Why do all of that work for a treat they could get for a simple sit? Your options for high value food rewards are endless, here are just a few we suggest trying:
Patê: Le parfait human-grade sandwich spread is a hit. We recommend liver pate or tuna. Frank goes bananas for the liver. Alternatively, you can find dog-specific pate at your local pet shop. It’s a delicacy your dog will appreciate.
Sardines: The super smelly reward! Grab these tinned at your supermarket or dried at your pet shop. Dried sardines are great if your dog prefers scatter feeding over taking treats from strangers.
Wet Cat Food: Frank treats this like forbidden treasure. Just remember, cat food is saltier than dog food, so use it sparingly.
Wet Dog Food: If your dog’s diet includes wet food, try mixing it up with a different brand or flavour.
Cheese: Including cream cheese. Need we say more? It’s cheese!
Yogurt: Go for natural yogurt, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, toss in some fruit!
Hot Dog Sausages: A classic favourite. Slice them up and feed from your pot or scatter feed.
Toys: The Fun Doesn’t Stop at Food
Some dogs would trade a steak for a good squeaky toy and a game of tug. If your dog is one of these playful souls, toys can be just as effective. The trick is in the presentation. You’ve got to know how your dog likes to play to make that toy reward count. It's not just a toy; it's a party starter!
Double the Fun: Food and Toy Combo
Here’s a pro tip: bring both food and a toy. Start with the food as the primary reward, then whip out the toy to keep the celebration going. We call this the Party, it’s continued celebration for of all their hard work. This way, you’re not just ending the trail and stuffing your dog back in the car like, “Job’s done, let’s go.” Instead, you’re throwing a fiesta every time they nail it.
Presenting the Reward: Making It Count
Now that you’ve got your arsenal of high-value rewards, it’s time to talk about the presentation. Because, let's face it, even the best rewards need a bit of flair to really hit home. Here’s how to make sure your dog feels like they’ve just hit the jackpot.
Generally, the Trail Layer will be responsible for delivering your dog's reward (unless your instructor has advised otherwise), but it’s important as the handler to get in on the action too. Your dog needs to feel truly celebrated, and your involvement is key. Here’s how to do it right:
Timing is Everything: Deliver the reward immediately. Your dog’s memory of the action-reward connection is short, so the quicker, the better.
Be Enthusiastic: Your energy is contagious. Show excitement and praise your dog lavishly. Make them feel like the best dog in the world.
Mix It Up: Keep things interesting by rotating between different types of rewards. This prevents your dog from getting bored and keeps their anticipation high.
Make It a Game: Incorporate play into the reward. If your dog loves toys, engage in a quick game of tug-of-war or fetch. If they prefer food, try scatter feeding so they can "hunt" for their reward.
Keep It Special: Reserve these high-value rewards exclusively for mantrailing. This keeps their value high and maintains your dog’s motivation.
Conclusion:
With the right rewards and presentation, even the most nervous dogs can associate mantrailing with fun and success. Remember, it’s not just about the reward; it’s about making every trail a celebration. So, gear up, find that perfect reward, and watch your dog thrive on the trail!
Happy Mantrailing! And may your trails be ever adventurous and your rewards ever tasty (or squeaky).
Danielle & Frank
The Frank ‘n’ Scents Mantrailing Team
One of my dogs favourite food treats is dried fish, like dried sprats or herrings. But I will never forget handing the treats to one trail layer, and her turning as white as a sheet and nearly passing out. Seeing a whole, dried fish was too much for her to stomach 🤢. It was mainly the fact that the fish still had the head and eyes. So as a trail layer, get ready to be handed some weird treats (fish with eyes!!!!), and also get ready to be covered in cat food, tuna-breath slobber, and a topping of paté! As a well established trail layer, I would recommend adding wet-wipes to your list of mantrailing must-haves!