Alternative Assignment – Trailing & Locating Substitution

Handlers who are unable to complete the Trailing & Locating challenge may instead complete the following Shed Dog alternative assignment.

Three-Shed Challenge

Course Time: 4 Minutes

Teams will complete a three-shed search conducted in a Level III size search area, as defined in the NASDA rulebook.

Three sheds must be hidden within the search area. The dog must locate all three sheds.

The search area must also include the following distractions:

• Bedding Distraction – Used animal bedding placed in a box, cage, or similar container.
• Personal Item – One personal item such as a glove, keys, or wallet.
• Food Distraction – One pastry item such as a donut, croissant, cupcake, or similar baked good. The dog must be able to smell the distraction but must not be able to access or consume the food item.

Handlers may reward or treat the dog between each find, provided the dog remains engaged in the search and the search continues within the same run.

The run should demonstrate:

• Commitment to locating sheds despite distractions
• Effective search strategy
• Clear identification of each shed
• Team communication and handling

Runs may be completed on lead or off lead.