Tracking – 05/17/2011

160 paces, food in 9 of ten footsteps, wind out of north 15 mph, six inch pasture grass, soft ground, slightly damp grass from rain last night, cross mower tracks at beginning for about ten paces, one corner, cross mower tracks on second leg, cloudy, cool near 56 degrees.

I used hot dogs cut to 1/2 rounds and some rolled dog food, cut to a similar size as the hot dogs. I was out of hot dogs. She tracked well for this mix.

Worked on more control at the beginning. I implemented a lie down command about thirty yards from the start of the track. We simulated checking in to the judge. This went a lot better today than yesterday. I used food in my hand to reward her for close position and not bouncing around in anticipation of the track.

Her start was smooth and controlled… much better I believe due to the calmer, more controlled approach to the field and getting her in a good, focused state prior to the track.

She took her time at the scent pad, checking every corner. Her speed was nice. Cut grass usually produces at least one sneeze on the track. This particular field has a lot of wild animal traffic. She got a whiff of something and lifted her head. I corrected for this since she has encountered this before on this field enough times that I do not want the head lift to become a habit. The turn was the best she has done yet. Smooth and no nosing out. It was even slightly less arched than prior turns.

She sped up slightly on the second leg at first but settled after a few steps.