Embarking on the journey of training your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, leading to a stronger bond and a well-behaved canine companion. For those looking to take their training to the next level, earning trick dog titles offers a structured and engaging path. The “Do More With Your Dog” program provides several levels of trick dog titles, from Novice to Expert, each designed to challenge both the dog and the handler. This guide will walk you through the requirements for each title, helping you understand what it takes to achieve these impressive feats. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to master advanced skills, understanding these rules is the first step towards success.
Novice Trick Dog (NTD)
The Novice Trick Dog (NTD) title is the perfect starting point for dogs and owners new to the world of trick training. It emphasizes basic obedience and introduces the concept of performing a variety of commands.
NTD Requirements:
- Number of Tricks: Demonstrate 15 tricks from the official Tricks List. Tricks can be from any level.
- Luring: Luring is permitted on up to 50% of the tricks. This means you can use a treat or toy to guide your dog into position for half of the required tricks. For example, holding a treat in your hand to encourage your dog to spin in circles.
- Reinforcement: Treats or toys can be used as lures, but must not be used on more than 50% of the tricks. A treat can be given at the end of every trick regardless of luring.
- Positive Methods: All tricks must be taught and performed using positive reinforcement techniques. Physical manipulation, such as pushing or pulling the dog into position, is not allowed.
- Trick Repetition: If you perform an Intermediate, Advanced, or Expert trick for your Novice title, you can use that trick again for a higher title.
- Flexibility: Tricks do not need to be performed on the same day. An evaluator can sign off on each trick individually.
- Video Submission: You have the option to submit a video of your dog performing the tricks for evaluation.
- Printable Checklist: A printable application checklist is available for the Novice title. Printable Novice application checklist
Intermediate Trick Dog (ITD)
Building upon the foundation of the Novice title, the Intermediate Trick Dog (ITD) title requires a higher level of skill and a reduced reliance on luring.
ITD Requirements:
- Number of Tricks: Demonstrate 12 tricks from the Intermediate, Advanced, or Expert levels.
- Advanced/Expert Trick Value: Advanced and Expert level tricks count as two tricks if performed without luring, and one trick if luring is used.
- Luring: Luring is permitted on a maximum of 25% of the tricks. This means you can use a treat or toy to guide your dog for only a quarter of the required tricks. A treat can be given at the end of every trick.
- Positive Methods: As with the NTD title, all tricks must be taught and performed using positive reinforcement. Physical manipulation is prohibited.
- Trick Repetition: Advanced and Expert tricks used for the ITD title can be reused for subsequent titles.
- Flexibility: Tricks do not need to be performed on the same day.
- Video Submission: Video evaluation is an option.
- Printable Checklist: A printable checklist is available for Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert titles. Printable Intermediate/Advanced/Expert application checklist
Advanced Trick Dog (ATD)
The Advanced Trick Dog (ATD) title signifies a significant mastery of trick training, with a focus on off-leash performance and minimal, or no, lures. This level challenges the handler’s ability to communicate effectively with their dog using subtle cues.
ATD Requirements:
- Number of Tricks: Demonstrate 5 tricks from the Advanced or Expert levels.
- Off-Leash: All tricks must be performed off-leash.
- Luring: Lures (treats or toys) are not permitted during the performance of the trick itself. A pointed finger is allowed as a visual cue.
- Reinforcement: You may reward your dog with a treat or toy after the trick is completed.
- Cues: The handler can give multiple cues, but must not badger, hover over, or crowd the dog.
- Positive Methods: All training and performance must adhere to positive methods. Physical manipulation is not allowed.
- Trick Repetition: Expert tricks used for the ATD title can be reused for the ETD title.
- Flexibility: Tricks do not need to be performed on the same day.
- Video Submission: Video evaluation is available.
Expert Trick Dog (ETD)
The Expert Trick Dog (ETD) title represents the pinnacle of trick training achievement, requiring a dog to perform five expert-level tricks flawlessly, off-leash, and without any lures.
ETD Requirements:
- Number of Tricks: Demonstrate 5 tricks exclusively from the Expert level.
- Off-Leash: All tricks must be performed off-leash.
- Luring: Similar to the ATD title, treats or toys are not permitted as lures during the trick. A pointed finger cue is acceptable.
- Reinforcement: Rewards can be given after the trick is successfully completed.
- Cues: Handlers may use multiple cues but must avoid intrusive or pressuring behaviors towards the dog.
- Positive Methods: Training and performance must exclusively utilize positive reinforcement methods, with no physical manipulation.
- Flexibility: Tricks do not need to be performed on the same day.
- Video Submission: Video evaluation is an option for this title.
Earning these trick dog titles is not only a testament to a dog’s training and versatility but also a wonderful way to strengthen the human-animal bond through consistent, positive interaction. For those interested in learning more about specific tricks or training techniques, exploring resources on tricks to teach a german shepherd can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
