Scent pad vs Regular Start?

[amjrchamberlain]

Which do you use? And have you noticed a difference (any problems later) with either method? I am reading lots of tracking books and they seem to contradict on which start to use.

TIA!

[Kayos and Havoc]

Well, I have always leaned away from methods that use stuff I have to fade later. On the other hand some dogs need more help. So you have to figure out what your dog needs by watching how your dog handles what you throw at him.

Examples:
I am not a proponent of food on the track as I want my dog tracking scent not hot dog hunting. But some dogs need a little extra help. I did use food on the start to slow down Havoc, my speeding bullet. I also used some after turns for a dozen tracks for the same reason. But you need to fade it as soon as you see the dog getting it.

I also do not like double or triple laid tracks. I take baby steps for several weeks and then start to space my steps. There is some evidence to suggest dogs can figure out direction and double / triple laying means multiple directions on the same track.

I also do not use a scent pad. I do pause at the start and stand there for 10 or 15 seconds while I handle the start article. I do step on the start artcle and then use my baby steps.

As time goes on I pause for less time. On a normal laid track I may pause for 3 to 5 seconds before I step off.