Blog

The Trialing Experience: The Best and worst in us

February 3rd, 2025

Dog trials are an exhilarating experience - full of anticipation, teamwork, and those heart-pounding moments when everything comes together beautifully. But trials also have a way of revealing more than just our dog’s skills; they shine a light on our own strengths and weaknesses as handlers, competitors, and, most importantly, as humans.

As trial season ramps up, it’s worth reflecting on how the experience shapes us. At their best, trials bring out our dedication, patience, and sportsmanship. We celebrate not just our own successes but those of our fellow competitors. We marvel at the sheer brilliance of our dogs, learning from every search, every call, and even every mistake. Trials push us to be more mindful, to trust in our training, and to appreciate the journey over the outcome.

But trials can also bring out frustration, self-doubt, and even moments of unintentional unfairness toward our dogs. The pressure of competition can make us second-guess our instincts, or worse, place unrealistic expectations on our canine partners. It’s easy to get caught up in the leaderboard and forget that at the heart of every search is a dog who simply loves the game, regardless of titles or ribbons.

So as we step into trial season, let’s strive to bring out the best in ourselves. Let’s support one another, celebrate growth over perfection, and, above all, honor our dogs for the incredible work they do. After all, trials aren’t just about proving what we know - they’re about learning, evolving, and deepening our bond with our canine partners.

Whether this is your first trial or your hundredth, take a breath, trust your dog, and enjoy the ride. The best version of you is the one who remembers why you fell in love with scent work in the first place.