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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 cross track. 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.
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