Last Sunday Ginger (Hummel x Gavin) passed her Tracking Dog Test. The judges were Marilyn Johnson and Betsy Baird. Colleen was the track layer. Thanks to Companion Dog Training Club of Flint for putting on the test. When Ginger found that glove, what a rush!!! I used to only train in AKC obedience. In the last year I have started Agility, Tracking and Nose Work with Blake (Pala x Dux) and Ginger. We are having a blast. So hopefully more titles to come.
When it comes to GSDs – two heads are better than none
Love it-congrats on the TD. Tracking is so neat! Who is the headless dog under the mattress?
Katy, if you plan to do more tracking, be aware that Barn hunt, which is very popular now has sent many a fine tracking dog down the crittering path which can be death on a test. I want to try it, but will wait until Ziva is done tracking competitively.
That’s Blake under the bed. I have also been warned about nose work interfering with tracking. So far so good. I’ve heard that on a VST a nose work dog suddenly started searching vehicles. For about 2 weeks in the spring Blake thought the long line was a lure course line and he kept pouncing on it. Unfortunately it coincided with my attempt at certification for him. He failed! He’s over it now and is a good tracker so we will try again. Of the 2, he is my goof ball. Very lovable, of course.
Boys are always goofballs!!! Not sure it will affect TD or TDX, but nosework can be a detriment to VST-they learn to search up and often that will be enough to cause irreparable loss of the track. I am fortunate to be able to train w/2 judges and they both “suggested” it may be better to wait till pursuit of the VST is done b4 starting barn hunt or nosework.
Hi Katy,
Congratulations on your and Ginger’s TD.
AT Dogs are doing great in tracking.
I know what you mean about the “rush” when finding the glove. Aiden is my first tracking dog too.
I find being out there very nerve wracking since there is only one of you that knows the way!