Did you know? When you attend a mantrailing session, you're signing up for a dual role: the skilled dog handler and the elusive trail layer. This blog post of Mantrailing Tips is your ultimate guide to mastering both roles while having a blast. But remember, your instructor is there to help you every step of the way, to ensure every mantrailing experience you have is a fantastic one, so please, don’t ever be shy to ask questions.
The Dog Handler: Relinquishing Control to Your Mantrailing Dog
Yes, we’re doing this for fun, but it’s crucial to understand that in mantrailing, you are not in charge. Gasp! I can hear your disbelief from here. But trust me, your dog knows way more than any of us mere humans when it comes to sniffing out a trail.
Think about it—how often are you commanding your dog to do something? Sit, paw, wait, stop, and the ever-popular NO! Now, toss that obedience manual out the window, because in mantrailing, your dog is the boss. They navigate a world of scent, a world we can't even begin to comprehend. Your job? Learn to read their subtle cues, work with them, and offer help, support, and encouragement if needed.
The Handler's Role: Letting your Dog Shine
Your primary role as a handler is to let your dog work naturally while ensuring their safety and success. And most importantly, revel in the excitement as you watch your dog work their magic and be a part of the adventure with them! The pride you feel after a successful trail is indescribable. It’s like watching your partner finally remember to replace the toilet roll without being reminded—pure magic.
Mantrailing Essentials
First things first, as a handler, you need to make sure you're all set with the right gear.
Harness: Go for a Y-front design. If the packaging says “no pull” and has a strap across the chest, chuck it—it's neither comfortable nor suitable for your dog.
Long Line: Aim for around 10m in length. Avoid nylon and rope lines; instead, go for Biothane, rubberized grip, or leather.
Now, onto the biggie: Finding the Right Reward. This is crucial. The reward should be something your dog goes absolutely nuts for. Typical training treats? Nope, not gonna cut it. Why would your dog bust a gut for the same old treat they get for a simple sit? Think wet, smelly, and special to mantrailing. Frank, for example, loves patê, and it works like a charm.
Your dog’s not mega food driven? Try play instead. Bring a new sparkly toy and celebrate with a game of tug. If you don’t think food or toys will do the trick? Try anyway and get creative!
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again—especially with rewards. Bring a variety to your sessions. Mix it up with food and toys to double your chances of hitting the jackpot!
The Two Verbal Cues: Keep It Simple
In mantrailing, we keep it simple with just two verbal cues:
Take Scent: Encourage your dog to take a good whiff of the scent article.
Begin Trail: Signal the start of the trail.
These cues are given at the start and generally don’t need repeating. If your dog pauses to think, let them! Resist the urge to cue them over and over, which can hinder their thought process and distract them. Seriously, for the love of dog, let them work! This doesn’t mean we can’t give verbal encouragement when needed or celebrate our dogs for making good decisions, but keeping "schtum" generally helps them to focus and begin independently problem-solving.
Subtle Cues: Your Dog Knows
Your dog picks up on more than just verbal cues. They know what's up as soon as they see their reward being packed away or their harness being pulled out. It's like their version of seeing a suitcase and knowing a holiday is imminent. Many dogs go from bouncing-off-the-walls excited to laser-focused the moment their harness goes on. They’ve made that association: harness on, trail time.
This is a good reminder that in mantrailing, we don’t need to be yapping our heads off. Save that for your obedience classes.
Learn to Read Your Dog on the Trail
Learning to understand what your dog is telling you at any time on a trail takes time and practice. Don’t worry, we will definitely be going into this in more detail, but being aware of your dog’s trailing behaviours is a vital tool in ensuring successful trails, so this will get you started. Imagine your dog’s nose as a highly sensitive GPS system, recalculating at every whiff of a new clue. If they abruptly drag you towards a bush or tree, don’t argue—they’re most probably onto something.
So, when your dog starts zig-zagging with their nose to the ground, they’re not just doing the cha-cha—they’re zeroing in on a scent trail or maybe even your trail layer. Pay close attention to those subtle cues: sudden head turns, intense sniffing, and that laser-focused look that screams, "Eureka!"
And let’s not forget the dramatic pauses. Your dog might stop dead in their tracks, lift their head, and sniff the air like they’re about to deliver a monologue. This is your cue to hold tight and let them do their thing. They might be picking up on a distant scent or just trying to figure out if they’re on the right path.
Reading your dog also means recognizing when they’re puzzled. If they start looking back at you with that “I could use a hint here” expression, it’s time to step up your cheerleader game. Give them some encouragement, but don’t overdo it—as I’ve said, too much chatter can break their concentration.
In short, learning to read your dog is like becoming fluent in a new language—a language filled with sniffs, tail wags, pulls, and turns. Embrace the quirks, trust their instincts, and enjoy the wild, scent-filled ride. After all, every good detective needs a trusty sidekick, and in the world of mantrailing, that’s you.
The Almighty Provider of Rewards: AKA The Trail Layer
Now it’s your turn to shine in the equally important role of the missing person, or as we like to call it, the Trail Layer. Think of yourself as the VIP that every dog wants to find. Your job isn’t just about hiding; it’s about being the most enticing lost person ever. Especially for dogs working on intensity and delayed starts, you need to get them fired up. Show them their rewards, call their name, even tease them a little, and then—quite literally—go get lost.
Trail Layer Tips
Communicate with the Team: Make sure you provide the reward to the dog in the way they love the most. Remember, the reward is for the dog, so please don’t dive straight in for pets and cuddles—shock horror, not all dogs are into that.
Listen Carefully: Unless the team is doing a double-blind trail, it’s crucial you follow directions clearly. This ensures the team’s success and avoids any “I swear they were right here” moments.
Stay Hidden but Engaged: Keep an eye on your surroundings and stay hidden but alert. Make sure your hiding spot is safe and suitable.
Be Prepared: Have the dog’s favorite reward ready. Timing is everything!
Extra Tips for Success
Stay Calm and Patient: Both roles require a calm and patient attitude. Your energy can influence the dog’s performance.
Observe and Learn: Watch experienced handlers and trail layers to pick up new techniques and strategies.
Practice Makes Perfect: Regular practice will improve your skills and strengthen your bond with your dog.
Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure
Mantrailing is an adventure that taps into your dog’s natural abilities and strengthens your bond in ways you never imagined. Remember, it’s all about the journey, the teamwork, and the joy of watching your dog do what they do best. So, gear up, and let’s hit the trail!
Happy Mantrailing!
Danielle & Frank
The Frank ‘n’ Scents Mantrailing Team
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