Finding the right tracking dog

Finding the right tracking dog to live with you and your family may be the single most important step in getting started as a tracker.  Your may share a dozen years or more of your life with your tracking dog, so choosing wisely is of great benefit. You will also invest a great deal of time, money, and emotions into your dog over its lifetime.  Also, it is important to keep in mind that even the most prolific trackers are pets and companions the majority of the time, and trackers only a small percentage of the time that they are with you. 

Incidentally, choosing the right fit for you and your family is exceptionally important. Many people have preconceptions as to what they want in a tracking companion. Breed, size, sex, and any number of other traits may already be predetermined in the owner's mind.  Others have no idea what they want, only that they want a dog that tracks well, and gets along with their family.

In either case it helps to have some guidance into what type of dog is most likely to fit your needs.  There is a lot of good information available in books, and on the internet regarding various breeds.  Tracking friends may also have good suggestions.  In most cases, a pure bred dog will be selected, but occasionally a mixed breed will better fit the tracker's needs.

After a breed is determined, finding a reputable breeder is an important step.  With tracking dogs becoming more popular across the country, proven tracking lines are becoming easier to find.  However, poorly bred dogs and unscrupulous breeders also increase as the demand goes up. Even when a good breeder is chosen, picking the puppy that has the personality and ability that best matches each tracker's needs is important. 

With thorough research, breeder interviews, and puppy testing, each tracker can find a dog that suits his individual needs. I recognize that not every potential tracker knows exactly what they need, or if they do, where to find it.  One of the services that I now offer to prospective trackers is help with that puppy search.  After a careful interview, I try to add some of my personal experiences and insight into the selection process.  If the person chooses, I can assist them in finding a puppy from a reputable breeder.  This takes some of the anxiety and uncertainty out of this important process.  I am always happy to talk with any tracker, and share my opinions at no cost. For a very small cost, I can also help facilitate the purchase of a puppy from a reputable breeder.  This is money well spent for most people who may not have the time or desire to do the "leg work" of puppy selection, and serves as cheap insurance that they are getting a quality dog.

Contact me if you have any questions.