Collection: Mantrailing Assessments Levels

At Hounds and Helis, we believe in making search and rescue dog skills accessible, practical, and, most importantly, fun for pet owners and their furry friends. Our training programs are designed to be engaging adventures, fostering a strong bond between you and your dog while simultaneously equipping you both with valuable skills applicable in everyday life.

For the first time ever, we are excited to introduce our Mantrailing Assessment Levels. While designed for pet dogs, our assessments draw inspiration from operational scenarios, providing a unique and exciting dimension to your training. From Entry Level through to Level 5, the levels are designed to gradually prepare the Mantrailing teams to follow are in conditions as similar to a real search as possible.

All handlers must begin at Entry Level and pass each Level before attempting the next Assessment.  

For assessments that are booked as all day events, you will have the opportunity to do some training during the day along with your Assessment.

All Assessment Levels are Single Blind. For all levels after Entry level, an indication from the dog is required.

Entry Level is a crucial starting point for all dog teams embarking on their assessments. This assessment ensures that handlers and their dogs possess the foundational skills necessary for blind trails, setting the stage for a successful and rewarding training experience.

Entry Level PD (Pet Dog)

• Start: Delayed Start.
• The starting point will be known by the handler. 
• Length: 100-150 meters.
• Not aged (<5 minutes old)
• Trail with surface changes.
• At least 1 junction/turn.
• The Misper (missing person) will be known by the dog.
• Misper at the end standing still, half hidden.

Level 1 Pet Dog 

• Start: Scent Article Start. 
• The starting point will be known by the handler. 
• Length: 150-300 meters.
• Approx. 10 minutes old.
• Trail with surface changes 
• At least 2 junctions/turns.
• The Misper may be known or unknown to the dog.
• Misper at the end will be any of the following: standing still, half hidden, sitting, lying down or walking very slowly.