My passion for tracking began around seven years ago when I was looking for an activity that would provide a meaningful outlet for my working-line Rottweiler, Kage. What started as simply finding something we could enjoy together quickly developed into a genuine passion for tracking and working dogs.
Since then, tracking has become a significant part of my life as both a dog trainer and competitor. Over the years, I have worked with and trained a variety of dogs across different breeds, temperaments and working styles, developing my understanding of scent, canine behaviour, handling, and the individual ways dogs approach and solve a track.
While much of my tracking journey has been spent learning alongside my own dogs, I have also had the opportunity to train and trial multiple breeds in tracking, including Rottweilers, Belgian Malinois, Labradors, Dobermans, and Kelpies. Working with such a variety of dogs has given me a greater appreciation for just how differently each dog approaches a track and has helped shape the way I train both dogs and handlers.
My passion for tracking has also taken me beyond traditional ANKC tracking. I have continued to develop my skills in operational-style tracking, including field, urban and hard-surface environments. In 2026, I travelled to Canberra to undertake further specialist training in the GAK9 system, achieving Field Handler, Field Specialist and Urban Handler certifications with my Malinois, Famous.
I particularly enjoy the problem-solving aspect of tracking — learning to read the dog in front of you, understanding how scent behaves in different environments and conditions, and adapting your handling rather than simply following a set formula.
Today, I bring around seven years of tracking experience together with my broader background as a professional dog trainer. I am passionate about helping handlers understand not only how to teach their dog to track, but how to become better at reading, trusting, and working alongside their dog.
For me, tracking has never just been about getting from the start of a track to the end. It is about developing a partnership with your dog and learning to trust the incredible ability they have at the end of the lead.
Contact details
Ell Young
Mackay K9
0417920897
