Your education begins before the first dog comes to the start line.

Shadow Apprentices should participate in course setting whenever possible.

Don’t just help move equipment. Pay attention to why the Judge of Record makes particular choices.

Consider:

Why was the hide placed there?

How will odor potentially move through this search area?

Where will the judge stand?

Can the judge adequately observe the dog and handler from that location?

Does the course meet the requirements for this class and level?

Are there safety considerations?

Are there natural distractions that may affect the search?

How will teams enter and exit the search area?

Ask questions. Course setting is one of the most valuable opportunities to understand the decisions you will eventually be expected to make independently.