Description
Prerequisite: Advanced Puppy or Obedience 1, Dogs 10 months and over
Class Duration: 6 Weeks
Instructor: Kim Watson
Class Description: AKC Trick Dog is one of AKC’s most popular training programs because trick training is fun for both dogs and their trainers. In this class, your class will be divided into two parts first teaching your dog Tricks in order to obtain the AKC Trick Dog Titles and second, how to condition your dog for better health and fitness using the fit paws program. Tricks are behaviors that are designed to entertain others. AKC Trick Dog ranges from very simple novice tricks such as teaching your dog to get in a box on cue, to complex tricks that are several behaviors chained together in one exciting sequence.
Benefits of Both Trick Dog and Fit Paws Conditioning:
Mental Stimulation –Trick training keeps your dog’s brain active, preventing boredom and reducing destructive behaviors. It’s especially beneficial for intelligent breeds that need constant mental engagement.
Physical Exercise – Many tricks require movement, coordination, and physical activity, which complements your dog’s daily exercise routine.
Bonding Opportunity – Working together to learn and perform tricks strengthens your relationship, improves communication, and builds trust between you and your dog.
Builds Confidence – Mastering new skills boosts your dog’s self-confidence, making them more comfortable in different environments and situations.
Fun for All Dogs – The program is open to dogs of all breeds, ages, and skill levels — from puppies to senior dogs — so it’s accessible to almost any pet.
Recognition & Achievement –Earning an official AKC title and certificate is a tangible reward for your dog’s hard work and your dedication as a trainer.
Structured Training Goals – The five-tiered system (Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Performer, Elite Performer) provides clear milestones, making training sessions more engaging and goal-oriented.
Show Off Your Dog’s Skills – Trick Dog titles allow you to impress friends, family, and even at dog shows or clubs, celebrating your dog’s talents.
There are Five AKC Trick Titles you and your dog can earn:
- AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN)- Your dog performs 10 skills from the Novice list. (see link to “Application” below for lists of skills). If a dog has a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or title on record at AKC, it can do 5 Novice tricks (CGC + 5) to earn the Novice title. See the list of tricks here.
- AKC Intermediate Trick Dog (TKI) – Your dog must have the Novice title, plus perform 10 Intermediate tricks. See the list of tricks here.
- AKC Advanced Trick Dog (TKA) – Your dog must have the Intermediate title, plus perform 10 tricks from the Advanced list. See the list of tricks here.
- AKC Trick Dog Performer (TKP) – In this title, handlers perform a short routine with at least 10 tricks with at least 3 tricks using props. See the requirements here.
- AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer (TKE) – In the highest level of Trick Dog, the Elite Performers perform a routine that has a story/script. At least 5 props are used. See the requirements here.
How to Prepare:
- Wear comfortable shoes/sneakers, (no open toed shoes/sandals)
- Don’t feed your dog for a few hours before class, this will keep him food motivated it will also prevent unwanted car sickness
- Puppies can have half of their normal meal the morning of class and finish when they get back home
- Potty your dog, before class, in the designated areas
What to Bring:
- Flat Buckle or Snap Collar
- 6’ leash, (no Flexi-leads)
- High Value Dog Treats (treats your dog really loves)
- Poop bags for cleaning up after your dog
- Comfortable working Harness
- Long Line
- All adult dogs are required to have a Rabies Vaccination. Please bring a copy of your Rabies Certificate to your first class.
