So, what exactly is Mantrailing?
Mantrailing is a scent-based activity where your dog learns to follow the unique scent of a specific person in order to find them.
Every person leaves behind an individual scent trail as they move through the environment. Tiny scent particles are constantly being shed from our skin, clothing and body, and these can be carried by wind, collect around buildings, drift across roads, become trapped in vegetation or settle in dips and sheltered areas.
At the start of a trail, the dog is introduced to the scent of the person they are looking for, usually from a scent article such as an item of clothing or something the person has handled.
The dog then uses their incredible sense of smell to work out where that person has gone. But Mantrailing isn’t simply about following footsteps.
Scent moves, pools, drifts and changes depending on wind, temperature, terrain, buildings, vegetation and the age of the trail.
The dog has to problem-solve and work through all of that information.
Why is it so good for dogs?
Mantrailing gives dogs a natural outlet to use their nose and brain. It can help build confidence, improve focus, provide mental enrichment and strengthen the working relationship between dog and handler. It’s also brilliant for dogs that may struggle in traditional group classes because dogs are worked individually, one at a time. This can make it suitable for a wide variety of dogs, including excitable, nervous or reactive dogs, with appropriate management. And the best bit? You don’t need a “working breed” or a super-obedient dog. Big, small, young, older, rescue, pedigree, spaniel-shaped lunatic or professional sofa ornament 
, Mantrailing is about allowing your dog to do what dogs naturally do best… Use their nose, solve the puzzle and find the person.
At K-9 Enrichment, Mantrailing is about teamwork, confidence, understanding scent movement and, most importantly, having a good time with your dog.
What to Bring to Mantrailing
To make sure you and your dog get the best from the session, please bring the following:
A well-fitting harness, your dog will trail in a harness, not from a collar.
A long line – ideally around 5–10 metres. Please avoid extendable leads.
High-value rewards – and I mean something your dog absolutely LOVES! Chicken, sausage, cheese, pâté, sprats… whatever makes your dog think finding a person is the best job in the world
Please bring plenty, as we don’t want to run out halfway through.
A reward pot – something easy for the trail layer to open and give to your dog when they are found. (Supplied)
Water and a bowl – Mantrailing is mentally and physically tiring, so hydration is important.
Suitable clothing and footwear for you – we will be working on grass, woodland, uneven ground.
Dress for the weather, not the fashion show
A safe place for your dog to rest between trails – dogs work individually, one at a time, so your dog will need to settle safely in your vehicle between turns. This rest period is an important part of the session.
Hi-vis – Supplied
Poo bags – because apparently that’s part of dog ownership nobody puts in the brochure Most importantly, bring an open mind, a sense of humour and be prepared to trust your dog’s nose. You may think the person went one way… your dog may strongly disagree… and there’s a very good chance your dog is right!
K-9 Enrichment 
07561 058269
An Enriched Dog Through the Nose
Location:
Court Lodge Fields
Thornton Close
Horley
Surrey
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