TCM
Training Information
We cannot ‘teach’ a dog to track; they already know how. All dogs have the ability to find and follow scent,
some better than others. What we humans have to figure out is how to hone the dog’s ability to follow the
desired scent.
This section will provide basic information on getting started, what equipment is needed, how to lay tracks,
and training for tests.
Training Index
- Getting started
- Equipment needed
- Equipment Wish List
- Beginners Corner
- Tracklaying
- Learning from your tracks
- Training for TD
Getting started
The best way to get started in tracking is to take a beginner’s seminar. A seminar will teach you the basics
about tracking and will get you and your dog started on simple tracks under the supervision of an experienced
tracker. TCM offers two beginner’s seminar a year, one in the spring and one in the fall. See our Events
Calendar for the schedule of these seminars. A seminar can set a good foundation on which to build your
tracking skills.
If you are unable to attend a beginner’s tracking seminar, there are several great books to get you started.
See our book list in the Resources section.
You can also join the Tracking Club of Massachusetts and get together with other tracking enthusiasts. A group
of us get together on most weekends to track in Eastern or Central Massachusetts and we always welcome newcomers.
To join TCM, click here.
Equipment needed
The minimum equipment needed for tracking is:
- A harness for your dog. The harness should not restrict the dog’s head from lowering to the ground. Good sources for harnesses are J & J Dog Supply (www.jjdog.com), Canine Outfitters (www.canineoutfitters.com) and Pawmark (www.pawmark.com).
- A long line (about 30 feet) - to clip to the harness. You can purchase nylon, cotton or leather tracking leads in varying widths. If you have a strong dog, you may want to consider leather as nylon or cotton may burn your hands if the dog pulls very hard.
- Flags - to mark your track.
- Two articles – a leather glove for the end article and a cloth article (a sock or bandana works) for the start article.
- Very tasty treats – to reward your dog for finding the glove
- Clipboard
- Paper & pen – to draw your tracks and record information
- Water bottle(s) – for you and your dog
Equipment Wish List
If you get hooked into the sport of tracking, you’ll want to expand your equipment list. Here are some items you may wish to consider purchasing. This list is not all inclusive. If you have an item that you find invaluable, please share it with us!
- Good rain gear – jackets and trousers. Tracking isn’t done only on nice sunny days!
- Wide brim rain hat
- Waterproof boots
- Rainproof gloves
- Gaiters – to keep the lower part of your trousers from getting wet from high grass or scratched from thickets.
- First aid kit – for humans and dogs
- Hand warmers
- Leatherman tool
- Mylar paper – waterproof paper to draw your tracks and record information when it’s raining
- Walkie talkies
- Towel(s)
- Dog brush
- Small cooler
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent (human and dog)
- Mesh head covering – you’ll be thankful for this in black fly season (May/June in New England)
- Fleece jacket for cold weather
- Ventilated, sun-protection clothing for hot weather
Beginners Corner
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Tracklaying
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Learning from your tracks
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Training for TD
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