Tracking

Tracking is a sport that demonstrates a dog’s scenting ability and willingness to work on command.

The American Kennel Club offers three levels of tracking titles based on increasing distance, course complexity and age of the scent: Tracking Dog, Tracking Dog Excellent and Variable Surface Tracking. The most advanced level simulates the tracking and recovery of a lost child or injured adult.

A Portuguese Water Dog has achieved the top AKC tracking level – one of less than 50 dogs in all breeds to win this title. Some PWDs are also putting these skills to work as Search & Rescue dogs, the most famous example being Dutch and his owner Connie Millard’s work in New York City after 9/11.