A. Start Line Behavior

• Dogs should be facing away from the search area while the hide is set.
• A verbal cue (e.g., “Find it!”) may be given.

B. Encouraging Independent Searching

✔ The dog should search without handler guidance once released.
✔ Handlers may use verbal encouragement, but must not physically direct the dog toward the shed.

C. Retrieving and Alerting

• Level I:
  • The dog must locate the shed.
  • The handler must call “Yes” once the dog successfully located the shed.
  • The search ends when the shed is found and the handler calls “Yes.”
• Level II:
  • The dog must retrieve and return the shed to the handler.
  • The handler must call “Yes” once the dog successfully retrieves the shed.
  • The search ends when the shed is returned and the handler calls “Yes.”

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Directing the dog too much – The search should be independent.
• Calling “Yes” before the dog completes the retrieve.
• Using a shed with no fresh artificial scent.