What is the handler's action during the First Pass of a search?

During the First Pass of a search, the handler's action focuses on using minimal commands to allow the dog to naturally engage with the environment. This approach helps to facilitate the dog’s exploratory instincts and enhances their ability to detect scents without interference from over-instruction. By minimizing verbal commands, the handler fosters the dog’s independent problem-solving skills, which are crucial in a search context.

In this phase, the handler typically observes the dog's behavior closely, paying attention to their alerts or indications of a find. This observational role is vital as it helps the handler gather information on the dog’s responses and the areas where the dog shows interest.

Using strict commands could hinder the dog’s natural search abilities, calling the dog back interrupts their focused search process, and encouraging them with treats during this initial phase might distract the dog from the task at hand. Therefore, the strategy of employing minimal commands aligns with the goal of maximizing the dog’s effectiveness during the search.