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The advanced tracking dog
examination is intended to demonstrate that the dog is capable
of scenting the track and not the body scent of the tracklayer.
It will not be confused at corners (swinging wide for example).
A "track sure" dog will remain with the original track; a "track
clean" dog will as well, even when there are cross tracks of the
same age crossing the track. Air scenting disqualifies the dog.
To be eligible for the FH examination, the dog must have passed
at least a SCHI. Dogs with a Begleithunde examination may be
permitted to enter.
Suitable areas for laying the
track include pasture land, plowed fields and forest floor.
There must be a change of cover during the course of the track,
including a portion over a hard, well traveled street/gravel
road. They may not be completely laid out on snow. The
tracklayer may not live in the same house with the handler.
Tracks are marked at the starting
point and must contain at least one 90 degree corner. Four
articles are put down for the dog to find. The dog may be worked
on collar, in harness or off-lead. There may be a crosstrack.
The test may be terminated due to disobedience if the dog runs
off after wild game, refuses to give articles up to the handler,
etc. The dog is scored on how well he tracks, indicates the
articles, on his general demeanor throughout the test and
responsiveness to the handler, etc. |
