Question 1

What is Mantrailing?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing is a sport training dogs to find people by following their unique scent trail. All dog's have a natural ability to hunt and therefore Mantrailing provides them with an outlet to do this in a safe, controlled and constructive way. We teach them how to harness their amazing sense of smell and turn it into a super fun activity to do together as a sport.

Mantrailing Global offers Mantrailing as a fun sport for pet dogs and their owner. We do not teach dog and handler teams to become operational Search & Rescue dogs.

Question 2

Who can take part?

Accepted Answer

Dog and owner teams can take part in Mantrailing no matter the size, age, breed or disability.

Mantrailing is a low impact sport, which unlike some dog sports, means there is less pressure and stress on your dog's joints which means puppies, older dogs and those who need more careful exercise management can still join in the fun.

Question 3

How can I get started?

Accepted Answer

To get started on your Mantrailing journey you will need to attend an Introduction session a Mantrailing Global Instructors. Please contact them directly to find out more.

To find your nearest Instructor CLICK HERE

Question 4

Do I have to commit to regular training sessions?

Accepted Answer

No, you are welcome to attend sessions as often or as little as you like. We have clients who trail multiple times per week and some who only come once per month. Like with all training, the more training you put in, the more you get out.

Question 5

My dog is reactive, can they still take part?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing is ideal for nervous or reactive dogs, as each dog is worked individually on a long line, ensuring they remain under control at all times. There’s no need for your dog to have their space invaded by unfamiliar people or dogs, making it a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

To help us provide the best possible experience, we kindly ask that you inform your instructor of any specific behavioural needs or requirements before your session.

Question 6

My dog is reactive, can they still take part?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing is ideal for nervous or reactive dogs, as each dog is worked individually on a long line, ensuring they remain under control at all times. There’s no need for your dog to have their space invaded by unfamiliar people or dogs, making it a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

To help us provide the best possible experience, we ask that you inform your instructor of any specific behavioural needs or requirements before your session.

Question 7

Does my dog need to have done any previous training?

Accepted Answer

No previous training is necessary to attend Mantrailing.

During Mantrailing the dog is never let off-lead so you don't even need a good recall!

We do ask that you please ensure you let your instructor know if they have any behavioural issues we need to know about prior to attending a session.

Question 8

Do I need to buy equipment for Mantrailing?

Accepted Answer

All you need for Mantrailing is a long-line, harness and food rewards for your dog. If it’s your first time attending an introduction session, please let your instructor know if you need to borrow any necessary equipment.

Don’t forget to also bring an item of clothing that you have recently warn which will smell like you. An appropriate item such as a glove, sock, scarf or neck chief make excellent scent articles. (no underwear please!)

Question 9

Does my dog need to wait in the car?

Accepted Answer

During Mantrailing you will be required to actively participating in the other dog and handler teams trails, as well as be encouraged to observe the other trails for another dimension of learning. In between your dogs goes, they will be required to settle in your vehicle to rest between work and process their learning (supervised by an attendee for security.)

If your dog struggles to settle in the car alone, please chat to your instructor about it as they will be able to provide some advice on how to help prepare them for this. Alternatively, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member to wait with them between their goes.

Question 10

Can I bring a family or friend to a Mantrailing session?

Accepted Answer

You are more than welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to a trailing session!

We always welcome extra Trail Layers to hide for the dogs or supervise your dog in between theirs goes.

If your friend/family member would like to handle the dog attending, you will need to speak to your instructor directly to ensure the correct introduction process has been completed.

Question 11

Can I bring a family or friend to a Mantrailing session?

Accepted Answer

You are more than welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to a trailing session!

We always welcome extra Trail Layers to hide for the dogs or supervise your dog in between theirs goes.

If your friend/family member would like to handle the dog attending, you will need to speak to your instructor directly to ensure the correct introduction process has been completed.

Question 12

What is the difference between Mantrailing and Tracking?

Accepted Answer

Mantrailing allows the dog to search in a way that they would naturally hunt, allowing them to use multiple natural skills which they already possess. As a handler, we then learn what their body language and behaviours look like when using these skills during a trail to collect information and work as a team to achieve success.

Tracking is a taught behaviour where the dog asked to follow footsteps and ground disturbance.

Mantrailing FAQ's