Beginning Training for a Search and Rescue Dog
Learn to Train the Canines that Save Lives
Apr 24, 2009
Most dogs are highly driven by food. So this is how the training for footstep tracking begins. Remember, it does not matter if your dog is a purebred, or a mixed breed. It is all about what kind of drive he or she has. The day before you begin footstep tracking training, be sure to short feed your dog. This should not be a concern, because it is important to remember that dogs are descendants of wolves. Wolves, in their natural habitat, go for days sometimes without eating at all. So, simply feed your dog a light meal early in the morning the day before training, then nothing else the rest of the day. He will be hungry by the next morning, and ready to work for his food. All of the professionals who work with these dogs usually use hot dogs as the reward treat. They are inexpensive, and most all dogs love them. So buy the big bargain pack, and slice them up in pieces that are about 1/4 inch thick. Place them in a zip lock baggie to get ready for training day.
Footstep Tracking
Early morning is the best time to train your dog, especially if you live in the south. Remember, you are going to be putting food on the ground to guide your dog, and in certain regions the fire ants are a concern. So plan to start around 7AM, before the ants come out. A light rain is not a problem, but if the rain is heavy and its very windy, its a good idea to wait for a better day. You can start the beginner training anywhere. Even in your own backyard! Leave your dog in the house, or in the car if you have gone to a different location, while you lay the tracks. Its very easy. Wearing work boots, or a solid soled sneaker, create a "start pad" with your feet by disturbing the soil. Place three or four hot dog pieces in this area. Continue from here for about 20 paces. Make defined steps with the heel of your shoe by digging into the ground, then dragging your foot to create the scent. Go left and right just like you would walk, and drop a piece of hot dog into every heel mark for your dog. Keep the track short, and straight for now. At the end of the track, create another "pad" and either use a pile of hot dogs, some other very tasty treat, or your dog's favorite toy for the reward. It all depends on what your dog will respond to the best.
Turn your Dog's Nose On
Put your dog on a leash for this, and guide him to the start pad. Remember, this is supposed to be fun for the dog! Treat it like a game. The standard command for footstep tracking is SUK..... pronounced "sook". Point your finger to the food on the start pad, and say "sook". Your dog should go for the food, then continue along the track back and forth, picking up each hot dog piece you left in every footstep. Guide him, encourage him, and remember the whole idea is to teach him to keep his nose down to ground. When he gets to the pad at the end, make it a big celebration. More treats, more play, or his favorite toy will work. It is all about figuring out what motivates your dog.
More Tricks
Choose a collar or, preferably, a harness that you use only for tracking. This way, when you put it on the dog, he knows its time to go to work. Pump him up and keep him excited about this "game". And never make the mistake of overworking your dog. You should do this beginner work several times a week, but not every day. If your dog gets bored or frustrated with it, he will quit working and then you have to go back to square one. Use different locations to keep it fresh and keep him thinking. Remember, this is only the beginning of training a dog that could someday save a life.
 |
