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BGBTOBig Game Blood Trackers of Ontario
Training

Training Program

The BGBTO believes in the importance of proper training and practice. We have developed training materials and regularly host courses for the benefit of our members and the public looking to get into blood tracking. Our program offers two levels of structured training — from fundamentals to advanced field scenarios — so that every tracker is prepared, confident, and effective in the field.

Level 1

Intro to Tracking

The foundational course for new trackers and handlers. Covers the ethics, legal framework, and core skills needed to begin blood tracking with a canine partner. You'll learn hit assessment, blood sign interpretation, proper equipment use, and how to work safely with hunters and landowners. No prior tracking experience required — just a willingness to learn and a suitable dog.

What You'll Learn

  • Ethics and standards of blood tracking
  • Ontario legal framework for tracking
  • Hit assessment and blood sign basics
  • Dog behavior, scent theory, and drive
  • Equipment: harness, long line, lighting
  • Hunter communication and interview skills

Requirements

  • 18+ years of age
  • A dog with suitable tracking temperament
  • Willingness to complete all course modules
Quality over quantity: certification is earned by demonstrated judgement, control, and consistency.
Level 2

Advanced Tracking

For certified trackers ready to sharpen their skills. This course covers complex recovery scenarios — gut shots, multi-day tracks, difficult terrain, night operations, and working multiple properties. You'll refine your dog-reading ability, learn advanced scent theory, and develop the decision-making skills needed for the toughest calls. Completion qualifies you for mentor status.

What You'll Learn

  • Advanced hit assessment (gut, liver, muscle)
  • Multi-day and aged track recovery techniques
  • Night tracking operations and safety protocols
  • Complex terrain: water crossings, swamp, rock
  • Reading your dog: false trails, fatigue, distractions
  • Multi-property coordination and landowner relations
  • Mentoring new handlers and quality assurance

Prerequisites

  • Completed Intro to Tracking course
  • Minimum 10 documented live tracks
  • Active certified tracker status
  • Mentor recommendation
Mentor pathway: Successful completion of the advanced course and continued field performance qualifies you to mentor new handlers.