Mantrailing: What It Is and Why It’s So Addictive

Mantrailing is a relatively new sport that has taken the world by storm. It is a mixture of tracking and obedience training, and it can be addicting for both dog and handler alike. In this podcast and blog post, we will discuss what mantrailing is, the benefits of doing it, and why so many people are addicted to it!

What is Mantrailing

Mantrailing is a tracking method that relies on a dog’s keen sense of smell. The dog follows a person’s scent from one point to another, allowing the handler to track the individual even over long distances or through rugged terrain. Mantrailing dogs are trained to ignore all other scents and focus solely on the target individual.

Mantrailing dogs are trained to follow a person’s scent, even if they have been in an area where other strong smells are present. The dog starts at the person’s last known location and follows their scent until they find them. This process can be used to find people who are lost in the wilderness or who have been kidnapped or taken against their will. In recent years, man trailing has become increasingly popular, as it offers an exciting way to bond with your dog while providing them with valuable exercise.

Who can do Mantrailing

Mantrailing is an activity that anyone can do with their dog. All you need is a motivated dog willing to follow a scent. The best dogs for mantrailing are those with a strong prey drive and a good sense of smell. However, any dog can be trained to the trail, and many breeds excel at this task.

Mantrailing is often used by law enforcement and search and rescue teams to find missing persons. However, it can also be used for recreation and competition. Many mantrailing clubs across the country offer trails for novice and experienced dogs. Whether you’re looking for an activity to do with your dog or interested in learning more about this skill, Mantrailing is an excellent option.

How it can help you and your dog

Mantrailing is a great way to bond with your dog while getting some exercise. It’s a challenging activity for you and your dog, but it’s also a lot of fun and no need to run! Plus, it’s a great way to socialise with your dog and meet other like-minded people. There are lots of instructors across the UK to go join in with.

What equipment do you need to get started?

Here’s a quick rundown:

First, you’ll need a long lead or leash – at least 15 feet. This will give your dog enough room to move around and sniff the trail without getting tangled up.

Next, you’ll need some sort of Y harness. This will help distribute the weight of the lead evenly and will prevent your dog from getting choked or injured if they pull too hard. A collar is not recommended for mantrailing, as it can strain your dog’s neck unnecessarily.

Finally, you’ll need some scent articles. These can be things like an article of clothing you’ve worn or a toy your dog is familiar with. The scent will help them to start tracking the trail.

With these simple supplies, you’re ready to start mantrailing!

How to find out more about Mantrailing

This is the link to the Mantrailing UK website, where you can find your local instructors.

https://www.mantrailinguk.com/

About Natasha Filler

I am a dog trainer specialising in Mantrailing, scentwork and canicross have been for a couple of years now, after becoming a dog walker specialising in dogs that need space thanks to a very good trainer friend who nudge me in the right direction.

I have owned dogs for many years but have only been to dog sports in the past five years. I currently have four dogs chihuahua who is trained in tricks and hoopers, and two poodles; one has retired after spending four years running with me, completing five marathons, and the other competes in Hoopers, scentwork and cani-sports and my youngest, who is a sprocker, does scentwork cani-sports and gundog work and of course they all Mantrail.

My original background was horse working with them from a young age and going to uni to do equine science. I have owned and competed for many horses over the time, but after losing my last one a few years ago, I couldn’t bring myself to have another.

Dogs, especially gundogs, have always been in my life. My grandad and great uncle both had spaniels and worked them, so it’s in my blood, as they say, and became the natural progression from the horse.

I have been Mantrailing for over two years now, an instructor for just over one year, and an assessor for the past three months. I love the sport as it is suitable for most dogs, from tiny chihuahuas to giant Newfoundlands. Puppies and the golden oldies

It’s even great for dogs that struggle with reactiveness.

Natasha’s Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/poodaroofollowthenosescentwork/

Watch A Mantrailing Exercise

• Dog Activities
• Mantrailing
• Natasha Filler