On test day, it is the responsibility of the judges to ensure that the equipment used in the field meets the current AKC Tracking Regulations requirements.
Collar: If a collar is worn by the dog while tracking, the collar must be properly fitted (buckle or slip). No special training collars, such as electronic collars or prong collars, will be permitted. Required licenses or rabies tags may be attached to the collar.
Harness: The dog must wear a harness while tracking. The harness will be constructed of pliable material with minimal restriction of the dog’s movement. An inconspicuous marking is permitted on the harness to identify the dog in case of loss.
Line: A tracking line must be attached to the top of the harness and not be deliberately run through the underside of the dog, controlling or restricting the dog’s movement. The line must be between 20 and 40 feet in length.
The following optional equipment is allowed. They must be put on the dog before the start of the track and in the presence of both judges.
Coat: Protective or cool coats may be worn by the dog either under or over the harness. If worn over the harness, there must be an opening on the coat that allows the line to be connected to the harness at the top.
Footwear: Booties may be worn to provide protection to the dog’s feet.
Eyewear: Goggles may be worn to provide protection to the dog’s eyes.
The only items permitted on the tracking field are those items considered by the judges to be essential to conducting the test. Judges will not allow any motivational items such as food or toys. Any type of recording devices that film video, capture pictures and/or locations are not to be carried by the handler or attached to the dog. Spectators may video or photograph the dog in the field as long as they remain in the gallery area(s) designated by the judges.
If you have any questions, please email tracking@akc.org.
Happy Tracking!