In- Person Instructors Course designed for you to thrive.
At Trailing K9s, we believe mantrailing isn’t just about following a scent. it’s about building a deep partnership between dog and handler, and sharing that passion with others.
Already teaching mantrailing? This course is designed exclusively for qualified instructors who want to add another skill to their toolbox and help their teams progress even further.
By incorporating tracking into your mantrailing sessions, you’ll unlock a whole new level of focus and precision in your dogs. Tracking helps dogs concentrate on the ground scent, encouraging accuracy and detail while naturally bringing their speed down to a more manageable pace, something both handlers and instructors will appreciate!
No need for a person hiding at the end of every trail. Meaning no more cold, soggy trail layers waiting in bushes. You’ll gain the flexibility to set up high-quality training sessions anytime, anywhere, keeping both you and your clients happy.
Tracking also opens up a whole new world of structured homework for your clients. Instead of just simple target-scent games, they’ll be developing real skills they can practice at home, giving them a sense of progress and keeping the dogs mentally fulfilled between sessions.
Let’s get started—your journey to becoming a Trailing K9s Instructor begins here.
Course Content
- By combining mantrailing and tracking, you’re laying solid scent foundations that create calm, confident, and easy-to-read dogs. The kind every instructor loves to work with.
- Learn how to incorporate tracking and trailing skills seamlessly into sessions.
- Skills in both soft and hard surface tracking.
- Give your clients meaningful skills and understanding of how to read their dogs.
- Efficient homework for clients to skill up faster and dogs to have fun away from the session.
What’s Included:
- 5 Days in person with small groups of six instructors
- Featured map pin on the Instructor Map (NEW).
- VIP Membership to the Trailing K9s Academy Instructors Membership (NEW).
- Instructor status with Trailing K9s + a goodie bag of Instructor Merch.
- Everything you need to add tracking to your mantrailing instructor skill set.
- Lunch each day
When and Where?:
- 21st til 25th September 2026
- Oswestry at Various Locations
What’s the cost?
Cost is £1000 which can be paid in instalments (Instalment payments incur a £50 admin fee)
Whose Eligible?
- Anyone who is already teaching mantrailing under any organisation.
- To apply please complete the application form, and organise an interview with Kathryn.
What will I learn on the course?
This course is designed to give you everything you need to become a confident, knowledgeable tracking instructor. We’ll cover scent theory, trail design, dog behaviour and body language, teaching methods, problem solving, and much more. Alongside the technical trailing side you’ll learn to confidently run your own classes and support your clients. This isn’t a bums on sets course and it is mainly practical based to help you learn multiple ways to teach the sport.
How is the course structured?
The course runs over 5 days. With a little bit of theory, lots of hands-on tracking coaching practice, and working their own dogs and stooge dogs. Expect a mix of learning styles so you’re not just listening, but also doing and reflecting. You’ll leave the course with practical skills you can immediately put into action. We’ll be working new dogs and experienced dogs to the sport, and practicing on hand picked students to help you learn how to teach a variety of people.
What level of trailing or training experience do I need before applying?
You need to already be teaching mantrailing under any method, and looking to add tracking skills to your classes to increase your knowledge as an instructor. The course is for people who want to teach others, so a passion for trailing and learning is a must.
How do I apply, and what happens after I submit my form?
You’ll need to complete the application form on our website. Once submitted, I’ll be in touch to arrange a friendly interview where we can chat about your goals, background, and whether this course is the right step for you.
Can my application be declined?
Yes. I take on instructors who I believe are ready and suitable for the course. This helps maintain the high quality of our instructor community. If I feel it’s not the right time for you, I’ll let you know honestly.
Where is the course being held?
The course is being held in Oswestry, at various locations around the town.
Is accommodation included, and can I bring my dog?
Accommodation isn’t automatically included. You can absolutely bring your dog, in fact, you’ll need them with you for the training but if you can’t travel your dog then there are plenty to borrow.
Are meals provided?
Yes! Lunch, hot drinks, and cake are all included in the course fee. We may go out for a meal as a group some evenings at your own cost.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your dog, their usual training equipment, and anything that helps you feel comfortable for long training days. All weather gear, it is Wales after all. I’ll provide the course guide and note pads, as well as some other goodies. I’ll send out a full kit list before the course so you feel well-prepared.
How much is the course cost?
The full course fee is £1000. This includes 5 days of in-person training in small groups
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, instalment plans are available, though please note a small admin fee of £50 applies. These can be spread over a time to suit you depending on which course you are on.
Will I be ready to teach trailing straight after?
Yes. That’s the goal! By the end of the course, you’ll be confident running your own trailing sessions. Plus, you’ll have the option of mentoring support afterwards if you need guidance as you get started. You’ll be supported to start a group of students off after the five days so you can start earning and learning.
Will I be listed as an official Tracking K9s Instructor?
Yes. Once you’ve successfully completed the course, you’ll be added to our Instructor Map and promoted as part of the Trailing K9s community.
What if I can’t attend one of the days?
Attendance at all 5 days is required to pass the course.
How many people will be on the course?
Spaces are limited to just six people. I keep groups small so that everyone gets personal attention, mentoring, and plenty of hands-on experience. I will be teaching the course but will also have other canine professionals helping me along the way.
Can international applicants join?
Yes. Absolutely! We welcome international students. Just be aware that the course is taught in English and takes place in the UK, so you’ll need to arrange travel and accommodation.
What do I get at the end of the course?
You will be titled as a Trailing K9s Tracking Instructor, and become part of the VIP members of the Trailing K9 Academy. The skills to teach a combination of mantrailing, tracking and trailing.