Supporting Your Dog on a Mantrailing Session – Before, During and After the Trail
Supporting Your Dog on a Mantrailing Session – Before, During and After the Trail
Mantrailing is a rewarding and exciting way to work with your dog. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been trailing for a while, one of the most important things you can do is learn how to support your dog effectively throughout the entire session – from preparation before the trail to winding down afterwards.
I recently did a Facebook Live on this very topic, and if you missed it, don’t worry! You can catch the full replay here. In the video, I break down everything from setting up the right mindset to knowing when to step in or step back, as well as how to manage distractions and reinforce good habits. So, let’s dive into a more detailed breakdown of how to best support your dog every step of the way!
Before the Trail – Setting the Right Mindset
The foundation of any successful mantrailing session begins before you even set foot on the trail. A clear, calm mindset is essential, as your dog is highly sensitive to your emotions. If you’re feeling stressed or rushed, your dog will likely pick up on it, which can lead to distractions and a lack of focus during the trail.
How to set the right mindset for both of you:
Arrive early – Giving yourself time to settle into the environment is crucial. Arriving too close to your session can leave both you and your dog feeling rushed or stressed.
Create a routine – Establishing a pre-trail ritual can signal to your dog that it’s time to focus. This could be something as simple as a few minutes of calm walking, a quick warm-up, or even a specific command or phrase that cues the start of the work session.
Clear your mind – Before the trail begins, take a few deep breaths and clear your thoughts. A calm handler is more likely to create a calm dog.
The importance of mindset:
Setting the right tone from the very start of the session helps both you and your dog feel confident and prepared. When you have a calm, collected mindset, it signals to your dog that it’s time to focus and work – not just play. This sets you both up for a successful experience on the trail.
During the Trail – Reading Your Dog & Knowing When to Step In
Mantrailing is a partnership between you and your dog, and it’s important to remember that you’re there to support, not control, the process. Your dog is the one doing the searching, so your job is to guide and encourage them when needed – but also to step back and let them take the lead.
Key skills to focus on during the trail:
Line handling – Keeping the line (the lead between you and your dog) under control is crucial. You don’t want it too tight, but you also don’t want it dragging on the ground. The goal is to have just the right amount of tension to allow your dog to move freely without you being in their way. A loose line can signal to your dog that they are free to move, while a slight tension helps them understand you’re still there, guiding them.
Casting – This refers to the technique where you allow your dog a bit of freedom to move around and search for the scent trail. The casting technique can be particularly useful in areas where the scent may be more dispersed, helping your dog cover more ground and stay focused.
Habits – Building positive habits early on will help both you and your dog perform better over time. Reinforce good behaviour, like staying focused or following the scent trail, by using praise or treats. Consistency is key to creating lasting positive habits.
Managing distractions – Distractions are a natural part of any trail, especially in urban or busy areas. During a trail, you might encounter other dogs, people, or smells that can distract your dog. It’s essential to manage these distractions by staying calm and redirecting your dog’s attention back to the task at hand. Don’t be afraid to step in gently if needed – but also know when to give your dog space to process things on their own.
When to step in or step back:
One of the most important things I’ve learned over the years is knowing when to step in and when to step back. If your dog is struggling or getting frustrated, a bit of support may be needed. But if they’re doing well, it’s important to trust them and give them the space to do their job.
After the Trail – Cool Down & Reflect
The end of the trail doesn’t mean the end of the session. It’s just as important to cool down and reflect on the experience, both for you and your dog.
Aftercare for your dog:
Cool down – Just like humans, dogs benefit from a proper cool down after an intense activity. Take a few minutes to walk your dog around, let them sniff, and allow their body to relax after the work.
Hydration and rest – Give your dog some water and a bit of time to rest. Mantrailing can be mentally and physically exhausting, so a good rest is important.
Aftercare for you:
Reflect on the session – Take a moment to think about the trail. Did your dog seem to struggle at certain points? Were there any distractions that you could have managed better? Reflecting on the session helps you both improve for next time.
Learn and adjust – Every trail is an opportunity to learn. Whether it’s about your dog’s behaviour, your own handling, or how you managed the environment, make a note of what worked well and what could be adjusted for future sessions.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Teamwork
Mantrailing is not just about finding a scent – it’s about the connection and communication between you and your dog. The more you understand how to support them – both physically and emotionally – the better your team will perform on the trail.
Whether you're just starting out or you've been trailing for a while, I hope these tips help you feel more confident and connected to your dog. Remember, mantrailing is a journey, and every trail is a chance to grow and improve.
🎥 Missed the Facebook Live? You can watch the full replay here for more in-depth insights and tips!
