Tracking

Tracking is a technique in which dogs are trained to locate certain objects by using the object’s scent. This vigorous outdoor activity is great for canine athletes, and one in which handlers take the back seat, letting their dog do what comes naturally to them.

Tracking TD Test: TCOTC Fall Tracking Test at Kinnickinnic State Park in River Falls, Wis. To learn more about volunteering or entering the test, visit the event page here.

Tracking 1

Tracking 1

Level 1 focuses on the basics of tracking.  Handlers will develop skills to lay a simple track for their own and other students dogs. The dogs will learn to put their nose to the ground to follow a scent, then follow that scent when it changes direction.  Level 1 also works with the handler’s leash handling and the dog’s article indication. This is a five week long course that is held offsite.

Prerequisites: Current or previous students of TCOTC. Students who haven’t trained at TCOTC are welcome if you have previously trained with positive reinforcement methods (i.e. clicker/marker training, operant conditioning, shaping).

Fee: $110.00 includes a set of small flags

Membership is required to take classes at TCOTC. Membership is $35 annually ($25 for students age 16 and above). If you are a new member, you will be prompted to add a membership upon enrolling for Tracking 1.
Be sure to check our policies for children in class and allowed training equipment.

2024  Schedule

Tuesdays, April 2nd – April 30th, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids

Wednesdays, April 3rd – May 1st, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Long Lake Regional Park in New Brighton

Classes will be held out in the field rain, snow or shine.

Foundation Agility

Tracking 2

Level 2 builds on basic skill with the goal of preparing teams for a tracking test. Level 2 tracking teams will increase track length as well as adding more turns for the dog to follow and more challenging terrain. The handlers will learn how to better read and understand their dog’s behavior and the “art” of mapping the track they lay. Level 2 will also start working on variable surfaces (pavement, dirt, etc.). This is a six week long course that is held offsite. The class session is scheduled to start shortly after the Tracking 1 class session has ended.

Prerequisite: Tracking 1
Fee: $110.00