Tracking

Tracking is a fun, noncompetitive sport that challenges the dog to recognize and follow human scent. While various clubs and registries offer tracking, we focus on AKC tracking. It is a great way to get outside and spend time with your dog.

I got involved in tracking because of my mom’s work with Search and Rescue dogs. I figured that my dogs have the same genes as thier successful Search and Rescue relatives, and they might enjoy being “sniffer dogs” as I call them.

There are three levels of AKC tracking, TD, TDX, and VST. The Tracking Dog title (TD) is awarded to a dog that shows the ability to track a person’s scent and find an article dropped by that person for about 500 yards. The Tracking Dog Excellent (TDX) is awarded to dogs who can follow a 1,000 yard track. The Variable Surface Tracking (VST) test is at most 800 yards, and can include surfaces other than vegetation such as concrete, asphalt, gravel, sand, or mulch. A dog who completes these three titles is awarded the title Champion Tracker (CT) which can be displayed at the front of a dog’s name.

For the complete tracking rules and requirements, visit the AKC Tracking Regulations website.