Practice Session, 11.22.2025

 We were back at the SniffSpot this weekend so I wanted to fit some more practice into our week. Quinn was very willing to participate! We just did one track this visit. 

Since our last two tracks went smoothly, I went ahead and added 5 steps, and also took slightly more normal length steps (versus the very tiny shuffle steps we started with!) Still dropping a single piece of hot dog at every step. 

I had Quinn off leash with just his collar on for the first part of our visit, before I laid the track. I was excited that HE was excited when his tracking harness came out of my bag. I think he's getting the idea of this new game!  

The footing (dirt path --> somewhat grassy trail) posed no problem for him. I thought he was very focused and methodical overall. In fact I was so impressed that I was still admiring him at the article and was later to get going with the treats than I meant to be. I'll try not to get distracted by my amazing dog next time!

Weather/Conditions:
  • Temperature: 53° F
  • Wind: N 3 MPH
  • Humidity: 94% 
  • Overall: Cloudy, cool, damp. Not actually raining by the time I laid the track though.

Track 1: Laid 2:42 PM, Run 2:49 PM 

 

Three things Quinn did well:

  1. Quinn stayed focused and got to work - enthusiastic but sensible and workmanlike. 
  2. He started to down at the article with no cue (just forgot he has back legs too; we'll keep working on it!) 
  3. He seems to be getting into the swing of things - harness on, do work, lay down at the article, drink water when offered. Really pleased with his progress since class! 

Three things to improve:

  1. I want to be ready with the treats more promptly. I got distracted by admiring my dog!
  2. Fitting in more practice both on track and games (can you lay down, oops I dropped it) when we can't get out to track.
  3. Mostly looking forward to seeing what comes next and learning more so I can learn what else we need to be working on. 

 Goal for next track: Just keep increasing length + whatever we learn in class on Tuesday! 


 




Comments

  1. JudiNovember 23, 2025 at 3:20 PM

    WOW! May we use your videos to show exactly what it looks like when done correctly? So, perfect to add 5 steps. In fact, what I like is repeat tracks 2 & 3 from the previous session, and add something (?5, 10?) to the last track. And I really can’t believe I’m saying this, but please let 6” of line out, so he’s just a smidge further ahead of you.

    I’ll say it again….the best tracking dog I have EVER seen was an Airedale.

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