Moraine Tracking Club is an AKC licensed dog club and offers all levels of tracking tests along with training throughout the year in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tracking
How do I get started tracking?
There are many good resources for beginning trackers, including the Moraine Tracking Club website and those of other clubs. While the best approach is to find a club or experienced person in your area, there are books and videos that can help you get started.
What kind of equipment do I need?
Equipment For The Dog:
A non-restrictive harness; a 20 to 40 foot line (leash or check-cord); articles for the dog to find; treats or toys (to motivate your dog) and water.
Equipment For The Handler:
Notebook to keep a log of your training and draw maps of your tracks along with flags (bicycle style or small utility) to mark your tracks. Many handlers prefer to use a small waist pack to hold articles and a water bottle. Keep in mind that tracking is an all weather sport so you will also need appropriate clothing for the weather and terrain in your location.
Moraine Tracking Club offers the 'Weather-Writer' for sale which is an enclosed type of clipboard making containment and protection of your maps and notes very convenient.
My dog is a (insert your dog's breed here). Can it learn to track?
Every dog has the ability to follow a scent, and all dogs innately know how to track. However, not every dog is equally motivated. Only by giving the sport a chance will you discover whether your dog has or can develop the necessary motivation.
A more important question to ask yourself is “Am I a Tracker?”
According to the AKC Tracking Regulations, “tracking is a vigorous outdoor sport” which requires Trackers work in all weather and often for lengthy periods of time. You have to love the outdoors and all its changes throughout the year, and from year to year, because to achieve the coveted Champion Tracker title, you will have to commit a considerable amount of time for and with your dog on the tracking fields. If you’re still willing, keep reading…
I think my dog is a great tracker, how do I enter an AKC tracking test?
If you plan to enter an American Kennel Club Tracking Dog test, you and your dog must first be certified by a licensed AKC tracking judge. This certification is proof that you and your dog are capable of handling the challenges of a tracking test.
Once your dog has been certified, you will be given 4 certificates that will enable you to enter licensed tests. An original certificate must be included with each entry to an AKC Tracking Dog test.
How do I find an AKC tracking judge to certify my dog?
Search the AKC Judge's Directory for an AKC licensed tracking judge. You can find a judge in your area by selecting your state and specify "tracking judge" by clicking the appropriate link under "Advanced Options" at the bottom of the search page.
Contact the judge by email or telephone and request certification.
IMPORTANT: Please do not attempt to become certified unless you and your dog are truly ready for the test and be sure to familiarize yourself with the
AKC Tracking Regulations.
How old should my dog be before I start teaching it to track?
You can start teaching your dog to follow a scent when it is a puppy. Although puppies frequently have very short attention spans, short tracks to find treats or toys are often intriguing games for them. Your dog must be at least six months old to enter a test, but may be certified before then.
Is my dog too old to learn to track?
The drive and motivation level of the dog is more important than actual age. Provided the dog is fit, starting a dog at almost any age can be a great experience.
