An important one - with multiple beneifts!
What happens is that over time, the dog learns to put his nose down before the pad and starts searching for the tail, without racing for the flag, which he will undoubtedly see. Later, when used in conjunction with a platz/down (see video on this page) before you begin, you can create a disciplined, intense search all the way to the pad - and not have a hectic, pulling, lunging dog, behaviors you will often see in dogs as they approach the start. Using the baited tail -- when the dog gets to the flag his head is down and he is already using his nose. Still later in the training this behavior will really help us with restarts after articles.
Using the pad -
Now you've laid the pad and tail and you are ready to begin. I do not recommend using your "setup" routine until we get to the section on first tracks, though you should open the container in front of the dog while he is in his crate, and let him get a good whiff before you leave to put it on the tail and pad. You are not however leaving the container out there for him to find at this time.
There are differing opinions as to how much time, if any, should be allowed between baiting and bringing out the dog. I don't think it matters too much at this stage - from immediately to about ten minutes is fine.
Unfurl your tracking line before you take your dog out of the truck and let him see you do it - every time. The reason I like to do this now is that it acts as a cue. It also lets you skip this step when your dog is ready and waiting near the pad and is eager to go (preventing you from having to put undue pressure on him to contain himself and wait while you lay out your line). What if you have to walk in a quarter mile to your start in trial, something that could absolutely happen? Good question and one that will be dealt with later on. For now, I recommend doing it this way.
Once that is done, take your dog on his regular leash and allow him to relieve himself. If your dog is not interested in doing that at this time then do it before you go tracking or stop along the way and allow him the time necessary. This is important. Fouling on the track is a major point deduction.
After that is done put on the harness -- if that is how you will be tracking him. If not, just hook up your tracking line, but stay close to the dog and do not let him wander all around.
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