Tracking with an already trained dog?

[Chicagocanine]

Any advice? What should you do if your dog knows more about tracking training than you do? I am looking to get a dog and she has been started in tracking but I have not done any training in it... I've read some on the subject but not a lot. I found a trainer in my area.

Where do you start training with a dog who is already started? Back at the beginning?

[angelaw]

You can, or get with someone who has done tracking and can evaluate by watching your dog do various tracks on where she is. The person can then help you lay tracks for your dog to advance her.

We have a guy in our club, most are just starting but this guy's dog was trained in tracking, he hasn't a clue. So not knowing where the dog was, I had him start in the beginning. Dog blazed thru it, so now we've advanced a few more steps to see how he does. Owner is quickly catching up, plus he gets to watch the more advanced and newbies track to learn the various stages.

[DFrost]

If you've already found a trainer have the trainer start you at the level of the dog. It would be frustrating for the dog to go back to beginning level. Have the trainer set up tracks that will utilize the dog's current level of training and talk you through the tracks until you've caught up.

DFrost

[angelaw]

But you have to find out where the dog is first.

[DFrost]

Originally Posted By: Angela_WBut you have to find out where the dog is first.

Obviously, that's true. If she has a trainer, that shouldn't take too much work.

DFrost

[Chicagocanine]

I will try to find out how much training the dog has already had. They also said she's done some narcotics work but that's probably not something I can work on myself.