All dogs have a keen sense of smell- 100,000 times stronger than humans- and Lagotto are particularly skilled at using their noses. Just watch your dog roaming around the back yard for a few minutes and you will most likely see him tracking a scent.
The AKC sport of Tracking involves training a dog to follow a human scent on tracks of various lengths, surfaces and ages, from 30 minutes to five hours, depending on the level of competition. Very little equipment is needed -a harness, a 20-40 foot lead, a few irrigation flags and some articles. Tracking provides a solid foundation for canine search and rescue work, and unlike other dog sports where the dog responds to human commands, in tracking the dog must use his nose to follow the track. This is one sport where the dog is really in charge!
Tracking is the perfect way for you and your dog to enjoy many hours together, outside in the fresh air, honing their natural abilities. Learn more about how to get started on the AKC’s website >>.
