Question 1

What breeds are good for Mantrailing?

Accepted Answer

Pretty well any dog can turn to Mantrailing so it's not really about which ones are good or not. Although classically bloodhounds were thought to be best the evidence is that any breed can excel. As with any training, dogs advance at different rates but pretty well all breeds trail and dogs with reactivity issues and other challenges such as blindness or deafness can also participate. Even short-nosed dogs have successfully trailed.

Question 2

How fit do I need to be?

Accepted Answer

If you can exercise your dog on a lead, you'll be fine! It is also possible to make reasonable adjustments and we will try to do this if we can. For example, people in wheelchairs have successfully trailed their dogs, making adjustments to how we might usually do things. Just ask for advice and let's see if we can make it work for you.

Question 3

Is Mantrailing good for dogs?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing builds a great working relationship between the handler and their dog. It's fun and for the dog, taps into their most important sense, smell. This can be more tiring than physical activities and gives the dog a 'job' to do which ultimately gives them purpose.

So, yes, trailing is good for dogs!

Question 4

How long is a session?

Accepted Answer

Most standard sessions are about 2 hours long. You won't be trailing for all this time as you will participate in hiding and other activities of the session. Sessions with 3 dogs will run shorter and advanced sessions typically run for 3 hours.

Question 5

My dog walks nicely to heel—how will trailing affect this?

Accepted Answer

In trailing we teach our dogs to lead and to be independent and trusted. They switch onto this when trailing so that in other 'modes' they will return to other behaviours, including 'heel' so you won't break this through trailing but gain many additional benefits of independent thinking and bonding.

Read our blog about this topic for more information.

Question 6

What age can dogs start Mantrailing?

Accepted Answer

Dogs can start Mantrailing as soon as they are safe to go outside. So, puppies that have had their vaccinations can start Mantrailing! The only consideration for younger puppies is about how distracted they might be so this might be a consideration when laying a trail. Puppies may become incredibly absorbed in the small stick or leaf that they find but ultimately can still 'get the game', meaning that it's perfectly possible for them to understand that they get a reward when they find their lost person. Aren't dogs amazing?

Question 7

Can I get a group together and make a private session?

Accepted Answer

Yes, no problem! We just need to agree the time and place - get in touch so we can work out the details.

Question 8

How much food should I use for each reward?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your dog but works differently from general training when we are providing lots of smaller rewards for small actions. Our trailing dogs need to feel finding the person or pet was worth it  — they will generally only do 2 searches per session so the reward needs to be a 'bingo' reward. So, don't bring their full meal but definitely make it more worthwhile than a standard treat! You'll work out what's right very quickly so on your first session just brings what you think is right and perhaps consider having some spare with you to adjust after discussing with the instructor.

Read our blog about this topic for more information.

Question 9

When is it too hot or cold, or too wet, or too windy?

Accepted Answer

Whilst we might be happy to trail in 'all' weather, we don't risk the well-being of our dogs, so they are our priority. We will cancel the session if it is below freezing or above 24C. We will consult booked attendees below 4C and above 21C and ask about your dog—you know their needs best. If you have any concerns for their welfare, your session will be cancelled, and you can book another date.
The session will be cancelled if the Met Office issues an Amber or Red weather warning at our trailing location. We will monitor Yellow Weather warnings and make a call if appropriate.
Yours and your dog's safety are of paramount concern!

Question 10

My dog has a disability. Can they trail?

Accepted Answer

Dogs with a variety of disabilities, from physical to sensory, have successfully trailed. As long as they can smell, we're prepared to adapt and give them a go — a dog's primary sense is smell, and we love enabling them to benefit from using this in a positive way. Some of the most emotional trails are with dogs who we thought might be too challenged. Older dogs, too, can trail very well. It's worth discussing any particular needs, so get in touch if your dog might need some adjustments.

Question 11

I get cold hands. Should I wear gloves?

Accepted Answer

It's important to stay comfortable and relaxed and cold hands won't help, so by all means wear gloves. Ideally we trail without, as we get better feeling through the line. So, the best gloves for that purpose would include gym or golfing gloves. They aren't particularly warm though, so dress appropriately!

Question 12

What clothing should the handler wear?

Accepted Answer

Dress sensibly! Trailing is an outdoor, all-weather activity. Comfortable footwear and layers appropriate tot he weather are ideal and if you want to ensure you stay dray and comfortable, bring a good waterproof jacket and overtrousers too. Most handlers wear sensible dog-walking style clothing.

Essential Guide to Mantrailing Equipment.

The harness

The long line

Finder's reward

Reward pots