Tag: not agilty

Mantrailing: Debunking 5 Common Myths – by Susanne Broughton


Are you a looking for a unique and engaging activity to share with your dog? Look no further than mantrailing! This exciting and rewarding activity offers numerous benefits for both you and your dog. Unfortunately, there are some misconceptions floating around that may discourage potential enthusiasts. Fear not! In this blog, we will delve into the amazing benefits of mantrailing while debunking five common myths, including the notion that only certain breeds can excel in this activity.

Maya hot on the heels of her trail layer
  1. Myth: Only certain breeds can trail.
    One of the most persistent myths about mantrailing is that only specific breeds possess the necessary skills to participate. In reality, any dog, regardless of breed or size, can learn to be a good mantrailer. While certain breeds may have natural instincts that make them excel in scent work, any dog can be trained to enjoy and succeed in mantrailing. It’s all about patience, consistency, and building a strong bond with your dog.
  2. Myth: Mantrailing is only for highly energetic dogs.
    Another misconception is that only high-energy dogs can benefit from mantrailing. While it’s true that energetic dogs often enjoy this activity, it can also be a great outlet for dogs with lower energy levels. Mantrailing provides mental stimulation, encourages problem-solving skills, and promotes overall well-being. It’s a fantastic way to engage and challenge dogs of all energy levels while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
  3. Myth: Mantrailing is too complicated to learn.
    Some may think that mantrailing is a complex and challenging activity to teach their pets. However, with the right approach and guidance, mantrailing can be taught to dogs of all ages and skill levels. We will help you understand the basics, including teaching your dog to follow a specific scent, differentiate between scents, and work collaboratively with you. The key is to start with simple exercises and gradually build up skills through positive reinforcement and consistent practice.
  4. Myth: Mantrailing is only for professional search and rescue dogs.
    While mantrailing is commonly associated with search and rescue work, it’s essential to recognise that this activity can also be enjoyed recreationally. Participating in mantrailing provides mental stimulation, offers an opportunity for dogs to utilise their natural instincts, and encourages physical exercise.
  5. Myth: Mantrailing is time-consuming and requires extensive equipment.
    Contrary to popular belief, mantrailing can be adapted to fit your lifestyle. You don’t need elaborate equipment or hours of training sessions to enjoy this activity. Even short, regular sessions can provide significant benefits for your pet. With a few essential items like a long leash, harness, you can start your mantrailing adventure in no time. It’s a flexible activity that can be tailored to your schedule and preferences.


Mantrailing is a fantastic activity that offers numerous benefits for both you and your dog. By debunking these common myths, we hope to inspire pet owners to give mantrailing a try, regardless of their dog’s breed or energy level. The joy, mental stimulation, and strengthened bond you’ll experience with your pet are well worth the effort. So, grab your lead, follow the scent, and embark on an exciting mantrailing journey with your dog!

Check out the Doghampton Facebook page to start your journey.

The newest fun dog sport, and 5 reasons to take it up

WHAT IS MANTRAILING?

1.  It is low impact which is suitable for puppies and dogs of  all ages

2.  Dogs are on lead, so no embarrassing incidents

3.  It’s easy to practice at home, Not much equipment needed

4.  Always in small groups.

5.  Dogs are worked one at a time so no issues for those that are dog nervous

6.  We train in new places every week

7.  It’s a great way to build confidence in nervous dogs

8.  It helps calm overexcited dogs as they need to concentrate more

9.  Fantastic way to build the bond and understanding between dog and handler

Have you heard of Mantrailing before?

Do you think it is only for really sporty dogs and super fit owners?

So here is the truth behind Mantrailing:

It is an exciting new trailing sport where your dog learns to track
missing/hidden people based on their unique smell!

Any dog can do this, from small to massive, from young to old, and any breed
too!

Even reactive dogs, as we only work one dog at a time and specifically
choose the person they are finding to match the dogs personality, it can help
improve their confidence immensely.

But I’m not fit enough to do that! We match the length and type of trail to
meet your requirements. Trust me I’m no athlete!

My dog has rubbish recall! No worries all dogs are worked on leads so they
are under control at all times.

We teach you to work as a team with your dog and help you understand body
language and how dogs see our world.

Once you have the basics you can progress through
more exciting trails in differing environments, and join in with competitions
and fun days or for the more competitive work towards  your level 1 certificate!

When it is not your turn to trail you have the
opportunity to watch other teams at work which is extremely beneficial for
progressing on your journey and understanding of dogs track scent, and the
effects of the environment on the trail, after all you are learning too.
it is low impact and highly addictive sport that requires concentration from
the dog and therefore really helps build focus and can give nervous dogs the
chance to build some real self confidence!

So come join us on this highly addictive adventure! Start soon and you may have
time to join in the Halloween ghost hunt!!

Take a look at our events page on http://www.facebook.com/doghampton

or sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss out!