Search & Rescue Dogs

Hi new to this forum just finding my way around, I was just wondering where one starts with Rescue training dogs, I own a Springer Spaniel, he's well trained all the usual stuff and his recall is very good, how do I start and with what commands do I use, He's been trained with the whistle so is quite good with that. Any advice thanks

Hi Tommy

I guess you are looking to train in tracking/trailing as you have posted in this area - unfortunately my area is air scenting, however I am sure some others will be along soon that can help with that discipline.

Hi Tommy,

There are many good books available (The Amazon website is best) on tracking and trailing. I would recommend the ARDA 2nd Edition book as it covers all the SAR disciplines quite well.

If you can be more specific in which discipline you want to go for then I'm sure loads of advice will be available. As you have a Springer and they are very manic I personally would recommend Air-senting.

Pete.

http://people.howstuffworks.com/sar-dog2.htm

Hi Tommy,
I found this link quite informative about the various 'ins and outs!' of SAR dogs.
Tony

Yes guys I think your right Air Scent training would probably be the best to start with, any advice, or any good books on the subject

Hi Mate

Send Joe a PM/email with your full contact details so she can send some stuff for you. Mojo x

Thanks Mojo, Boss have done. ian

I am a newbie with dog rescue training and was looking for some tips when I came across this blog. I could gain some really good points. Like for example, a sharp toned ‘No’ is very helpful while handling aggressive doggies. And another important thing is that dogs need attention and they would do anything for getting it. Hmm ….So what I need the most for this kind of a job is a whole lot of patience.

I am currently in the process of training my Lab for SAR work. It is a rewarding experience. First off, if you are going to commit to training a SAR dog make sure you can devote the time required. This is an exercise in patience and perseverance. I started my dog off when he was 12 weeks. He is now just over a year old and is still not ready to be assessed and certified. Not that he is not getting it, just that the standard where I live is that high. Secondly, nothing can beat finding an experienced handler to assist you with whatever discipline you chose, be it air scenting or tracking/trailing. There are a pile of excellent books (Susan Bulanda's Ready edition 2) out there, but nothing can replace practical experience from a handler or trainer. It can take days or weeks to correct one improper training session.
Have you had your animal assessed to see if it has the proper temperament and drive for SAR work. I had to have my dog approved for training by the RCMP here in BC Canada before I could even begin training. It would be a heart breaker to devote several months of training to find out in the end your dog just does not have the drive to do this kind of work.
Assuming that all the above checks out and you are ready to get going. Here are a couple of quick pointers. You must be consistent. Start slow and build on previous sessions. Keep sessions short. Usually around 10-20 minutes each. Only work on one thing at a time. Don't mix obedience while tracking/air-scenting. As training progresses only change one parameter at a time. For example, if you are working on run a ways and our dog is proficient at watching you run away don't add the blind run away and increase distance at the same time. This way if your dog is unsuccessful you won't be wondering what is causing the problem.
Always always always always end on a high note in all training. If you are tracking your dog and he is having a rough go of it and suddenly finds the track and makes it a couple feet successfully break right there and praise and play. It does not matter if the track is still going for 10 miles. It is that two feet of success you are after.
I also use the same equipment for each training session. This include his tracking leash, harness, prong collar and my favorite toy. Notice I didn't say "his" favorite toy. He gets to play with my tug when he has finished working. The play is his reward for doing a good job. When the gear goes on and the toy goes in my back pocket he knows it is time to work. I don't use his training gear for anything else. We have a separate leash and collar for his daily walks and social events.
Anyway that is enough rambling. To sum up. Get help, be patient, be consistent and have fun. It is amazing to watch these fine tuned animals work.