We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles in Agility, Coursing Ability, Rally, Obedience, Tracking and Trick Dog, including the fourth All-American Dog to earn the new AKC Agility Grand Championship, the fifth All American Dog to earn the AKC Champion Tracker title, and another CAX for the top-titled All American Coursing dog!
AGILITY
AKC Agility Invitational
Congratulations to PNAC MACH9 PACH5 Logan Lake Hope MXC2 MJG3 MXP12 MXPC MJP12 MJPB2 PAX5 XF T2B CGC & Kim Barton of Johnstown, OH, who made the finals and placed fifth in the 4inch/8 inch class at the 2018 AKC Agility Invitational! The event took place Dec. 15-16 in Orlando, FL.
Agility Grand Champion (AGCH) – Another All-American has earned this prestigious new title!
- AGCH MACH14 Feel the Need MXG4 PDS MJB5 PJS MFB2 TQX T2B11 CGC owned by Janet K. Boggs of Crawfordsville, IN
Master Agility Championships (MACH)
Multiple Master Agility Champions
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more MACHs:
- MACH6 African Queen MXB3 MJB3 OF T2B CGC owned by Maryanne Borowski of Millstone Township, NJ
- MACH3 Boston Of Barnes MXC MJS2 PJD OF T2B4 CGC owned by Larry Gordon Ribbeck of Simi Valley, CA
- MACH4 Camp David’s On the Verge of Greatness MXB2 MJB2 MFS TQX T2B owned by Rachel Billick of Tarentum, PA
- MACH5 Carazo’s She’s a Keeper MXB2 MJG2 owned by Nicolette Carazo of Riverside, CA
- AGCH MACH14 Feel the Need MXG4 PDS MJB5 PJS MFB2 TQX T2B11 CGC owned by Janet K. Boggs of Crawfordsville, IN
- MACH3 Ghillie Altrive MXC MJS2 OF owned by Louise Gilchrist of Harrisonburg, VA
- MACH3 Gilly Of Redwood MXC MJC XF owned by Marcy Jacobs of Godfrey, IL
- MACH4 Hayley The Crunch MXG MJC OF T2B owned by Bettina Markowitz of Sterling, VA
- MACH3 High Octane’s Borgoe Tobias MXG MJG MFS TQX T2B2 owned by Anouk Boon of Vero Beach, FL
- MACH2 PACH Kipp MXC MJG MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX XF XFP CGC TKN owned by Judith Stucky of Englewood, CO
- MACH4 Layla Wild Tail MXS2 MJS2 owned by Kenneth G. Kistler of Vandalia, OH
- MACH4 Malcolm MXB2 MJB2 owned by Isabelle Wolf of Erie, PA
- MACH5 Mel’s Amazing Mooch MXS2 MJB2 MXF TQX T2B3 owned by Melanie Thomas of Findlay, OH
- AGCH MACH14 Moses Raphael York UD BN GN GO RAE4 MXB4 PDG MJG4 PJG MFG TQX T2B8 CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Patrick York of Evansville, IN
- MACH2 Northbound Fly by Night CD RAE2 MXS MJG NF CGCA owned by Samantha Scicchigno of Staten Island, NY
- MACH5 Olive Hawkins MXB2 MJG2 XF T2B5 CGC owned by Stefanie and Craig Hawkins of Florence, KY
- MACH2 Ozlo Of Ashbury MXB2 MJC owned by Kenneth and Patricia McNerney of Washington Township, OH
- MACH2 Rrh Lulu MXG MJG XF owned by Denise Tudor-Hayes of Loveland, OH
- MACH2 Sadie Mae Of Mine RN MXS MJG XF CAA CGCA TKI owned by Lisa Tibbals of North Haven, CT
- MACH3 Werz’s Tallulah MXG MJC owned by Mary Werz of Iowa City, IA
Congratulations to these new first-time MACHs:
MACH Bisquik MXB MJB PJD OF owned by Maria Rene Griffin of Poulsbo, WA
“When I first got Biscuit,” Maria said, “I hardly knew about dog agility. He was a super-fast, super energetic puppy and I thought, ‘isn’t there a sport for this?’ Biscuit took to agility like a fish to water at times (he learned 12 weave poles in 14 days), and he struggled at times (it took him over a year to learn the teeter).”
In general, though, he loved the sport, and he still loves it. He was just 15 months old at his first trial, and by his second competition, he was ready to win first place twice, she said.
Maria and Biscuit competed in the2018 AKC National Agility Championship (NAC) and, with three clear rounds, he placed 22nd in the 16-inch jump height division. He has qualified for the 2019 AKC NAC, and the pair attended the AKC Junior Agility Competition in Orlando, FL, in December.
Biscuit earned his MACH at age 4 on Sept. 21, 2018, at the Portland Agility Club trial in Ridgefield, WA, and got his first QQ towards MACH2 the next day. “Biscuit is a joy to run. He communicates well and really gives it his all, even when I don’t communicate well in return. He’s content to sleep all day, but he’s just as happy to run agility 24/7.”
Biscuit
MACH Ontarget Surf’s Up MXB MJB MACH owned by Kara Corn of Cripple Creek, CO
Maven is a 7-year-old All American, who was 3 ½ years old when Kara received her.
“I immediately started working towards teamwork between us,” she said. Maven is known for her extreme speed and efficiency on course. Within this past year, the consistency started building along with even more speed, and they obtained the MACH during a three-day weekend trial hosted by Front Range Agility Team in Lakewood, CO, on Sept. 3. “Maven and I entered the weekend needing 3 QQ’s, and we happily achieved all three of them.”
Maven also recently attended the European Open Team Tryouts for an opportunity to represent the USA in the Netherlands in 2019. She won second place in Round 2 for Medium dogs.
“Besides agility, Maven is one of my couch potatoes and hiking partners. She has climbed 14,000-foot mountains here in Colorado with me and is known for burying herself under blankets while I watch TV,” Kara added.
Maven
MACH Soccodato’s Buster MXB MJS XF T2B owned by Jacqueline Anne Soccodato of New Rochelle, NY
“Buster, one might say, had a ‘ruff’ start to life,” Jacqueline said. “His beginning did not involve agility prospects or puppy training. Instead, he was fighting to survive on the streets of downtown Philadelphia. A matted mess of dirt and fur, he wound up in the municipal city shelter. His two-day allotment there was up and he found himself being carried off for his sentence. At the very last moment Animal Alliance of New Jersey pulled him to safety, and because of their efforts and a kind volunteer in the shelter, he is here with me today.”
An actual dog was hidden underneath his soiled exterior. A Shih-tzu/Yorkshire Terrier mix, Buster was a ball of energy upon rescue at 8 months of age. Jacqueline realized he needed lots of stimulation and a job. Knowing nothing about agility, they took their first class at Port Chester Obedience Training Club in New York, and he quickly excelled.
Buster always “embodied the heart of a champion” and on Aug. 25, 2018, at the Paul Revere Miniature Schnauzer trial in Hamden, CT, he earned the MACH. Buster also will be attending the Westminster Kennel Club Master Agility Championship for the third year, and the AKC National Agility Championships for the second time. He is currently ranked sixth for fastest 8-inch-All American Dogs by the Breed Power 10.
“His ability is remarkable, his energy is infectious, and his spirit is unbreakable. He is a true underdog in every sense, and he is a constant reminder to never give up because with love, patience, and a little agility, all things are possible.”
Buster
Congratulations also to these first-time MACHs:
- MACH Bain’s Molly CD MXS MJB owned by Carla and Raymond Bain of Edwardsville, IL
- MACH Bax’s Im Scruffy MXB MJS owned by Debra and Steven Bax of Guatay, CA
- MACH Mack’s Strider MXB MJB CA CGC owned by Haylay and Cherya Mack of Hesperia, CA
- NAC MACH Quicksilver Cherry on Top MXB MJB OF T2B owned by Angie Benacquisto of Ortonville, MI
Preferred Agility Championships (PACH)
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more PACHs:
- MACH3 PACH2 Allie G MXC MJS2 MXP8 MXPG MJP8 MJPG PAX3 NF CGC TKN owned by Molly Winder of Green Bay, WI
- MACH2 PACH3 Boots II FDC MXS MJS MXP7 MXPS MJP8 MJPG PAX3 T2BP RATCHX CGC TKN owned by Bari and Scott Boersma of Winchester, CA
- PACH2 Darci Mae AX AXJ MXP6 MXPS MJP6 MJPS PAX2 NF CGC owned by Mari Jo Reese of Altoona, PA
- PACH4 Elk Run Bella MXP17 MXPS2 MJP20 MJPC2 PAX4 OFP T2BP3 owned by Marcella Smith of Bridgewater, VA
- PACH3 Keno Ocb NA NAJ MXP11 MXPC MJP10 MJPC PAX3 owned by Paula J. Maxwell of Harrisonburg, WV
- PNAC MACH9 PACH6 Logan Lake Hope MXC2 MJG3 MXP13 MXPB2 MJP14 MJPB2 PAX6 XF T2B CGC owned by Kimberly Barton of Johnstown, OH
- PACH2 Mj NA OAJ MXP5 MXPS MJP6 MJPS PAX2 owned by Sarah Straub of Monroe, MI
- PACH2 Stetson Taterhead Lamping MXP5 MXPS MJP7 MJPG PAX2 OFP owned by Teresa Durbala of Lake Saint Louis, MO
- MACH2 PACH2 Stumler’s Harley MXS MJS MXP5 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX2 XF owned by Erin Stumler of Floyds Knobs, IN
Congratulations to these first-time PACH recipients:
MACH11 PACH2 Cabonina La Saltadora MXC3 MJC3 MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX2 TKA owned by Jason and Melissa Meier of Germantown, WI
Since she was a puppy, Cabo always loved and excelled at running and jumping so Melissa and Jason started agility with her in 2011. She has gained her own fan club that has supported and cheered for her for many years.
She even earned top ranked All American Dog in AKC Agility for 2017! It’s hard to know if her favorite part of agility is running, getting pets, love, and treats from everyone, jumping into Jason’s arms at the end of the run (which is impressive for a 65-pound dog), or the peanut butter treat she gets when she returns to her crate.
Given her age (she’ll be 11 in December) and to help her to keep doing what she loves, she moved to Preferred in July. Within two and a half months, she got her first PACH. Cabo is very adventurous, and besides playing agility, camping, and policing her two feline brothers, she loves learning new things, which led to her Advanced Trick Dog title.
Cabo
PACH Fiona the Flying Squirrel OA OAJ MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX NFP owned by Donette L. Belknap of Colorado Springs, CO
Nine and a half years ago, Donette became a “foster failure” when Fiona came into her life. Fiona was surrendered at the end of an adoption fair where Donette was volunteering. She was asked to foster the dog overnight and to bring her back to the adoption fair the next day. But “as she fell asleep across my collarbone that night, we were bonded for life.”
Donette never intended to train Fiona in agility, but her husband suggested it. “I told him if he taught her ‘down,’ I would do the rest, and here we are now,” she said. In a picture of Fiona taking a jump at one of her first trials, she resembled a flying squirrel so her registered name became “Fiona the Flying Squirrel.” Competitors know her as the pooch in the pouch since her favorite place to be at trials is in a front pack worn by Donette.
Fiona has had some ups and downs. Three weeks before the first trial she was entered in, she sustained an injury resulting in six months of no activity. Once she began running with Donette again, she competed in an occasional trial. They hit the Excellent level, and Donette switched to Preferred as Fiona was having a harder time with the 8-inch height. She earned her PACH on Sept. 9, 2018 at the Front Range Agility Association in Denver, CO.
“Each time I think about retiring Fiona,” Donette said. “she runs beautifully, letting me know she’s not ready yet. I never imagined that she would earn her PACH. She is also qualified for Nationals this year. This little girl continually blows my mind; she gives me her heart and soul in every run. She has taught me to cherish every run that we have together.”
Fiona
MACH PACH Jaxs MXS MJS MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MXF TQX MFP TQXP CGC TKN owned by Elaine Ann Rinicker of Lutz, FL
Jaxs is a 9-year-old mixed breed adopted by the Rinickers when he was 6 months old. He lacked confidence so Elaine started training him for agility and discovered that he loves the sport. He went to the AKC National Agility Championship in 2017 and has multiple AKC titles, including “my all-time favorites: TQX & TQX. He has awesome distance abilities. He is a fun-loving all-around great dog and a gentleman to live with,” Elaine said.
Jaxs earned his PACH at Calusa Dog Training Club’s trial in August 2018.
Jaxs
PACH Ries’ Brady Bunch AX AXJ MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX NF XFP owned by Kelly Ries of Doylestown, PA
Eleven-year-old Brady was adopted by Kelly when he was 6 months old. “He is a sensitive, smart boy who loves to please,” she said. He is her first agility dog; they started for fun in January 2012 and fell in love with the sport.
Brady received his PACH on Sept. 16, 2018, at Princeton Dog Training Club’s trial. Their agility journey also took them to the Westminster Kennel Club Master Agility Championship in 2017 (when they double-qualified) and in 2018. Brady also enjoys hiking, napping, and playing with his Border Collie sister.
Brady
PACH Riley’s Jesse AX AXJ MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX XF MFP T2BP CGC owned by Carol Riley of San Antonio, TX
Jesse is a Border Collie mix, but when Carol saw him at an adoption event, she didn’t know (or care) what breed or mix he was because it was love at first sight. “I knew he was the dog for me, but I could not have imagined at the time what a wonderful teammate and companion he would turn out to be,” she said.
Carol noticed right away that Jesse had a high energy level, was super smart, and needed lots of activity and mental stimulation, so after he completed basic obedience she enrolled him in a beginning agility class to provide a fun outlet for him. Neither of them knew anything about agility before that first class, but Jesse loved it, and the pair has never looked back. “It has been an adventure and so much fun for both of us,” she said.
Jesse’s favorite thing is running the courses, but when not in the ring, he’s working the crowd for treats and giving kisses to anyone who’ll let him. He also likes long walks, hiking, and any game or activity that involves running and/or treats.
He earned his PACH on Aug. 12, 2018, at the Alamo Brittany Club trial in San Antonio. The pair is looking forward to competing in their first AKC Agility National Championship in Tulsa this spring. “Jesse is an awesome teammate and a constant source of fun, love, joy and adventure.”
Jesse
Congratulations also to these All-American Dogs who have earned their PACH:
- PACH Brooks’ Izzy AX AXJ MXP5 MXPS MJP4 MJPB PAX CGC TKA owned by Sue Brooks of Oregon City, OR
- PACH Cooper Jaxon MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX owned by Tiffany Roehr of Bradenton, FL
- MACH2 PACH Euro Fine Girl MXG MJC MJP4 MJPB PAX XF OFP T2B CGC owned by Joe Felix of Cincinnati, OH
COURSING ABILITY TESTS
Top Titled Coursing All American
Iyong Tapat Kaibigan FDC AD CAX 13 BCAT owned by Stephanie Markgraf of Graham, NC
Kai hits lucky thirteen – CAX13 to be exact! Kai is the first All-American Dog to earn the AKC Coursing Ability Excellent 13 title for 325 runs, making him the most-titled All-American Dog in that sport. Kai earned his CAX13 on Nov. 17 at the Piedmont Kennel Club test in Charlotte, NC.
“Kai started chasing bunnies in January of 2013 and just finished his sixth year in the sport. Kai has traveled through 20 states to compete, adding Michigan and Mississippi this past year. He shows no signs of slowing down so he will continue his mission to chase bunnies after the holidays,” Stephanie said.
“Kai has had a lot of support along the way – handlers, transporters, and people stepping up when I have been physically unable to attend or participate in events. We would just like to thank everyone who has helped Kai remain top dog!”
Kai
Congratulations also to this dog for earning multiple CAX titles:
- Ingomar Di Mancini Torsione Pane RN CAX11 DCAT ACT2 CGC TKP owned by Katharine Renner of Sewickley, PA
Coursing Ability Excellent – Congratulations to this dog for earning his first CAX for passing the CAT test 25 times:
Wsc Stone Canyon Jasper CAX BCAT CGC TKA owned by Jennifer Strubinger of Milton, NH
Jasper was adopted by Jennifer, sight unseen, going by a picture and description from a rescue group in New Hampshire. He was about 4 ½ months old and hails from South Carolina where he and five siblings were left at a shelter. Jennifer said “he is named for a favorite stone of mine, Jasper, which has gentle and nurturing qualities. This was the perfect choice for him as he has a very laid-back personality and is a sweet boy.”
Jasper enjoys scent work, rally, barn hunt, and agility. “Coursing, however, is his true love! His normal gentlemanly demeanor changes to that of a wild thing as he nears the line, barking and pulling,” she said. “He was introduced to coursing at 6 months of age and was hooked. He runs with the singular focus of catching those bags. Sometimes he refuses to leave the field, wanting to run another two or three times in succession.”
Though they compete in many sports, coursing is also Jennifer’s favorite “because I get to just stand there and watch him do what he loves most: run flat out.” This year, he earned both his CAX and his BCAT. He earned both the CAX with the New England Rhodesian Ridgeback Club and earned his BCAT with the Housatonic Cairn Terrier Club. “Jasper would love it if we moved to an area that has more coursing opportunities so that he could do it on a more regular basis; otherwise, he would like coursing in the snow to be a thing!”
Jasper
Fast CAT
Congratulations to this FCAT title earner for earning 1,000 points:
Ruby in The Rough OA OAJ CA FCAT DJ CGC TKP owned by Katharine Marshall Lenhart of Dayton, OH
Ruby earned her FCAT on Aug. 4, 2018, through the Muncie Obedience Club at K9 Splash Zone. Ruby is a 5-year-old mixed breed dog adopted from a “Furry Valentine” event in 2013. She was very nervous, so Kate enrolled her in classes. She was a natural at agility, and many sports followed. Ruby is now titled in agility, dock diving, tricks, CAT, and Fast CAT. Her top speed is more than 28 miles per hour! She also has her AKC Canine Good Citizen title and earned an Achiever Dog certificate.
When not competing in dog sports, Ruby likes bikejoring, scent work, hiking, kayaking, therapy dog work, and eating anything she can find. Her unique looks and sassy personality have made her a very popular pup at the dog events.
“Ruby has been the most amazing dog, and is a shining example of ‘never say never.’ She has willingly tried everything I’ve asked of her, and does it with joy! I couldn’t have hoped for a better dog,” she said.
Ruby
DCAT
- Kuniko’s Watch Your Six CA DCAT SCN SIN RATN CGC TKA owned by Lori Janice Durfor of Marysville, CA
- Miss Dixie Ray CAA DCAT owned by Gayle Louise Ingram of Kettering, OH
- Ruby Tuesday II RN DCAT CGCU TKP owned by Rachel Pekala of Portland, OR
OBEDIENCE
Utility Dog Excellent (UDX)
Congratulations to this dog who has earned another UDX:
OTCH Lola Sugar and Spice UDX4 PCDX OM7 BN GN GO RE CAA CGCA CGCU owned by Kathryn Harvey of Apple Valley, MN
Utility Dog (UD)
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned the UD title:
I’ll Be Your Huckleberry UD owned by Shannon Canard of Flora, MS
Joker earned his UD title on July 22, 2018, in Huntsville, AL. He is a rescue dog who was adopted from the Mississippi Animal Rescue League. “It was quite challenging to keep him from escaping,” Shannon said. “He even tried to escape through the fireplace.” Joker is a cancer survivor who is now competing in barn hunts, which is “right up his alley.”
Huckleberry
Jada Mayhem UD PCDX BN GN RAE3 owned by Leroy and Mary Gouge of Florissant, MO
The Gouges adopted Jada from the Humane Society of St. Louis, MO, on Dec. 1, 2012, when she was 2 months old. From the beginning, they said they knew she was extremely smart and very special. Both Leroy and Mary have had dogs their whole lives and have taken them to puppy class and beginning obedience classes, but neither had ever shown dogs. They enrolled Jada in a puppy class in January 2013 and from that class on, their instructors commented on how smart she was and encouraged them to show her in AKC events.
“I decided to start with rally, and Jada loved it!” Leroy said.
She earned her UD on July 14, 2018, at the TAC Trial in Wentzville, MO. She earned her UD title with two first place scores and one second place score and is now working on her UDX.
Jada
Moroughan’s Roxy UD BN RAE2 CGC owned by Vicki Moroughan of Greenwood, DE
Vicki and her husband adopted Roxy from an animal rescue in August 2012. They had dropped off some dog supplies at the facility and before leaving, they walked through the kennel area.
“As we approached Roxy’s kennel, she displayed her exuberant personality,” Vicki said. “She was standing on her hind legs with her back up against the front corner with what appeared to be a smile on her face, a move that made it hard for us to forget. Over dinner we talked about Roxy.” Vicki called that night and asked if there was any interest in her, and hearing that there was not, they turned in an application and picked her up the next week.
Roxy and Vicki started family dog classes that fall. Their instructor encouraged them to enroll in the AKC Canine Partners program and to test for the AKC Canine Good Citizen title.
In spring of 2013, after passing the CGC test, they started rally classes. “Being a newbie to any type of dog competition, I had never heard of rally,” she said.
Their first AKC Rally Novice competition was in November 2013 at a five-day cluster. Roxy earned her Rally Novice (RN) title and qualified for the 2014 AKC Rally National Championship in Harrisburg, PA. That’s when Vicki got hooked.
In 2014, Roxy was enrolled in Beginner Novice Obedience classes and began traditional obedience training and competition. Roxy earned her UD on Aug. 26, 2018, at the Oriole Dog Training Club in Maryland. During Roxy’s years of rally and obedience competition, she placed first place 32 times, second place 19 times, third place six times, and fourth place five times. She earned perfect scores 19 of those times and won the high combined award in RAE eight times. She was also the 2014 AKC number-one All American Dog in Rally Novice and has qualified for multiple AKC Rally National Championships and AKC National Obedience Classics. “I can’t look at her without being amazed at how things turned out for both of us.”
Roxy
Millie Rose Schellhorn UD BN RAE CGC owned by Joy and John Schellhorn of Tenaha, TX
Joy and John rescued Millie Rose after seeing her photo on the Longview, TX, shelter website. It was 11 pm, and Joy couldn’t wait to get there the next morning. “Her picture captured me immediately, and I was sure others felt the same way. I wanted to get there first!” she said.
They arrived at the shelter as soon as it opened and asked for her. “The wonderful workers at the shelter brought her out for us.” They told the Schellhorns that Millie Rose was found in a ditch alongside the road by highway workmen. They had determined she was 4-5 weeks old. “They put her in my arms, she nuzzled up against my neck and licked my face. I put her in my husband’s arms, and she did the same thing to him. To this day, four years later, she still wants to nuzzle in my neck and lick my face. She is only 11 inches tall, but every time I return home, I lean down or pick her up so she can nuzzle and lick,” Joy said. “We have had the most marvelous journey since then.”
Thirty-five years ago, Joy earned UD titles with two Basset Hounds and loved the AKC obedience culture. Both of those dogs also became therapy dogs. When AKC welcomed mixed breed dogs to compete in dog sports, she jumped at the opportunity to train another dog to the UD title.
“Now, four years later, I am so proud to say that Millie Rose joined me to achieve my dream. We earned our UD on Sept 19, 2018, at the Basset Hound Club of Greater Ft. Worth’s all-breed obedience trial, where 35 years ago I earned my first AKC obedience leg. We passed our first test to become a therapy dog with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs in Shreveport, LA, on Nov. 4, 2018. Thanks, AKC for providing me with some of the most rewarding and emotional moments.”
Millie Rose
Oops! I’ve Been Smudged UD BN GN RE owned by Leilani Farrier of Redmond, OR
Smudge came into the world on Feb 9, 2014, along with his nine brothers and sisters. “I didn’t plan on keeping him, but he grabbed my heart, and that was that,” said Leilani. “He loved everyone, and everyone loved him.” Her trainer gave him his call name, and another friend came up with his registered name: “Oops I’ve Been Smudged.”
Smudge showed great working ability by 8 weeks, heeling and sitting like a pro. They attended lots of puppy classes for socialization and began formally training when Smudge was 3 months old. “We really had fun, and he was always making me smile and laugh,” Leilani said.
Smudge made his trial debut in Rally Novice B in September 2014 and before the year was over he had his Rally Novice title and one leg in Rally Advanced. In March 2015, he received his CGC title and then his Beginner Novice, Companion Dog (CD), Graduate Novice, Rally Advanced and Rally Excellent titles. He loved to travel and show off in the ring.
In August 2017, Smudge received his Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) and then started showing for Utility in April 2018.
“In September of 2018 he honored me by showing his heart out and getting his Utility Dog title at the Umpqua Kennel Club show in Roseburg, OR, with another first place. Smudge just fell into my life and a better dog I could never have asked for.”
Smudge
Psp’s Phantom Gabi Daydream Believer UD PCD BN owned by Brenda K. Shaw of Eden Prairie, MN
PSP’s Phantom Gabi Daydream Believer was born on Halloween of 2012, thus the “Phantom” part of her name.
“Gabi is a wonderful training partner and has the most awesome attitude,” Brenda said. “At 6 years of age, she charges back on her go-outs and flies over those 14-inch jumps like she was a puppy. Regardless of whether Gabi takes the correct jump or brings back the correct glove, she is a joy to watch in the ring and delights everyone, including the judges.”
Gabi has received numerous placements, High in Trials and High Combineds and has several shelves of trophies and ribbons.
“I look forward to working with Gabi as we move forward in search of those advanced titles. This cuddle buddy not so subtly wins more of my heart every day.”
Gabi
Piper’s Black Magic UD BN RN CGC TKA owned by Linda Etten of Marquette, MI
Piper came into Linda’s life eight years ago. “Since she was a young pup she liked being busy learning new things, and this has never changed,” Linda said. “But also as a young pup, she was very sensitive and lacked confidence in certain situations. With patience and positive reinforcement in her training, she has learned to work through difficult situations and has gained confidence in the process.”
Before Piper, Linda had gone no further than a CD in obedience so that was her goal with Piper. But Piper was a quick learner, so after getting her CD, Linda decided to work towards her Open title. Piper flourished, and she was becoming more confident every day. They kept going. After receiving her Open title Linda decided to work towards the Utility title. On Sept. 16, 2018, Piper earned her UD at the Marquette Kennel Club trial. With a Utility title under their belt, Linda thought that would be it, but Piper is not ready to retire so they will continue and try for the UDX title.
They also have started scent work and hope to attend some scent work trials in the future.
“When not training, Piper enjoys daily walks in the woods, chasing squirrels and chipmunks, and always has to carry something for me up our stairs (something she has done since a young puppy). Piper has been such a wonderful addition to my life, and I have enjoyed watching her as she has grown and become more confident,” Linda said.
Piper
Congratulations also to these dogs who earned the UD title:
- MACH2 Lady Stixalot Of LafayetteUD BN RE MXS MJC CGC owned by Heidi Nelson of Huntley, IL
- Sammi Paisley Rains UD PCDX BN RN CGCA CGCU TKN owned by Connie G. Alexander of Smyrna, TN
- What a Zinger UD BN GO RE AX OAJ owned by Dee Pierce of Grants Pass, OR
RALLY
Rally Master (RM)
Congratulations to these first-time RM recipients:
Coach Crazy Horse CD RM RAE MX MXB MXJ OF BCAT RATN CGCA TKA RM owned by Lynn Kathryn Wesselmann of St Louis, MO
Coach, an 8-year-old Dutch Shepherd mix, was rescued in 2011 from the Humane Society of St. Louis, MO. “His striking brindle coat, one floppy ear, and beautiful amber eyes won me over,” Lynn said.
Her previous dog, a German Shepherd Dog, had been well mannered and low key. “Not knowing anything about ‘Dutchies,’ I assumed Coach would be the same. I was in for a big surprise. I was unprepared for his speed and exceptional climbing and jumping abilities. If he made up his mind to do something, it was almost impossible to stop him. Obedience training was a high priority.”
Heeling came easily to Coach. He was attentive and wanted to learn everything. He and Lynn soon became a real team and entered their first rally trial. They qualified in all their events. After receiving an RAE in 2017, Lynn was excited to learn that the AKC had added the Rally Master title. On Aug. 11, 2018, Coach earned his Rally Master award at the Jefferson County Kennel Club of Missouri trial. “My boy has come a long way, and I am so proud of him,” said Lynn.
Coach
Eddyson RM RAE CGC TKN RM owned by Katherine M. Birkner of San Antonio, TX
A member of an animal rescue group spotted Eddyson wandering outside a Walmart and rescued him. From the length of his hair, Eddyson must have been on the streets for six months to a year. The vet thought he was about 2 ½ years old and found he had hookworms, for which he was treated. He was shaved as he was so matted. In October 2014, Eddyson came to live with Katherine.
Eddyson was frightened, and Katherine was new to him. She went to church the third day after he was neutered, leaving him and her two other dogs inside with the doggie doors open to the back yard. “When I came home, Eddyson was full of mud, and his cone was off, but he was in the house. My neighbor had tried to reach me while I as at church, but I had left my phone at home. I returned her call; she said, ‘I could have sworn that I saw your new dog across the street at a neighbor’s.’ I found the cone by the gate and a small hole about six inches in diameter. I was amazed that Eddy managed to get out two doggie doors with a cone on, out of the yard, and then back into the yard, through the doggie doors, and the house. My escape artist made it home.”
Slowly, she won his trust, and they began training at the San Antonio Dog Training Club with first, basic obedience, then CGC prep class, obedience, then circus class. “Eddy is smart, and he learns quickly. He wanted to please, but he loved to run and jump.” She tried to get him into agility, but he was just too wild, so they began rally and Katherine enrolled him in the Canine Partners program. He excelled, and on July 12, 2018 in San Antonio he completed his RM. They are continuing to work and go to trials, working toward Eddyson’s RACH.
Eddyson
Josephine-A-Rooni RM CGC TKA owned by Kristy Leech of Guntersville, AL
Kristy met Josie when she volunteered to assist a friend with taking pictures at the Arab Animal Shelter. They were told Josie would be impossible to photograph because she was too wild. In fact, the shelter had given her the name “Wild Child.” Since her profession is training American Saddlebred horses for show, Kristy felt perfectly capable of handling “Wild Child.” She was a little over a year old at the time and had spent most of her life at the shelter.
“When I got her out, she certainly was 85 pounds of wild,” Kristy said. “She had us both tied up with the leash within seconds! I told the main volunteer that I wasn’t necessarily interested in adopting, but I wanted to keep up with her.” Twice Josie was adopted and returned. The volunteer told her that they try hard to stay no-kill, but can’t keep them forever, so Josie would only get one more chance. Kristy picked up Josie immediately.
Josie lacked social skills, so Kristy enrolled her in the beginner class at South Paw Obedience Training center in Arab, AL. They went through some obedience, but especially enjoyed rally. After about a year of classes, they started showing. Josie easily earned her Rally Novice title and qualified for the AKC Rally National Championships.
“We really enjoyed that experience at the Purina Center. Josie’s off leash showing was a little interesting. When I started her training, I vowed to not let her lose who she was. This showed up loud and clear at some shows with her ducking her tail and zooming around the ring for her adoring fans,” Kristy said. Through all of that, they again qualified for Rally Nationals and enjoyed their trek to Tulsa.
Josie earned her Rally Master title on Sept. 1 at the Nashville Dog Training Club trial. South Paw instructor, Kitty Thompson, bakes a cake for everyone who gets a title. “When I first started classes, I never thought Josie would earn a cake to share with her classmates. She is responsible for eight cakes being served since she has earned four Rally titles, three Trick titles, and her CGC. We have enjoyed all the opportunities AKC has for All-American Dogs. We plan to continue in Rally and maybe try something else AKC offers.”
Josie
Princess Jia Li Of Faerie RM BCAT THDA RATS CGC TKA owned by Dr. Cynthia Rae Becker DDS MAGD of Fishers, IN
Jia Li was born under a lucky star, although her first few weeks it did not seem so. She was tossed out a car window into a Missouri snow bank with her two siblings. Luckily, a good person saw them go, stopped, and got them to a rescue, where they were adopted within a week. Jia Li was 6 weeks old and weighed three pounds when Cynthia got her, and she thought she had a Pomeranian instead of a Chow mix. At such a young age, she suffered from sound and sight reactivity and was timid. The rescue named her Shy Girl. “Not wanting a self-fulfilling prophecy,” Cynthia said. “I renamed her Jia Li (Chinese for Good/Beautiful).”
Their journey started with training for CGC and therapy work, agility, then adding her other passion, coursing. More recently, barn hunt, rally, and trick dog were added. There have been challenges, such as the noise and commotion of a competition environment. “Each area of training has helped her to become more confident in real life and living with her is a joy,” Cynthia said.
“Jia Li plays with toys like a cat, tossing them about the room and bouncing them off the ceiling. Laughter and joy are her gifts. Woods walks and hiking are our good-for-the-soul activities in our leisure time all year long. She will be 9 years young in December. Maybe scent work as a retirement career? Everyone thinks she is a puppy. I hope she lives forever, bringing love, happiness and laughter to our household.”
Jia
Willow CD PCD BN RM RAE TKN owned by Donald and Naomi Rakestraw of Wichita, KS
Eight years ago, Donald and Naomi saw Willow’s picture in a book of shelter animals at a car dealership. “She looked sad, scared, and pleading for a home,” said Donald. “She’d been caught (catching her took two months) and taken to the shelter.” The Rakestraws met her at the Hutchinson Animal Shelter and learned that she was a feral dog, named Willow after Willowbrook, KS, where she was found.
On the ride home Willow changed from a shy lab/shepherd mix to a scared out-of-control 50-pound untrained puppy. They later learned that she’d been adopted and returned by another couple on the same day.
Willow pulled, jumped, bit, and played like a puppy but she had full-sized teeth and muscles. She also snapped and growled at almost everyone. Many times, they thought Willow was hopeless, and friends, family, and trainer tended to agree. The Rakestraws almost took her back. “Instead we asked God to help us with her. We took her to dog school every day for a week before she would go through the door,” Donald said. They realized that Willow was not a bad dog, only a dog who had had no training. Willow just didn’t know what to do. She just needed a lot of love which she received along with lots of training.
Willow is now a therapy dog and has many titles in obedience and rally. She has changed from the throwaway dog that no one wanted to a champion in rally and obedience. “She has a special place in our hearts because of the obstacles she has dealt with and overcome.”
Willow
Congratulations also to this dog for earning the RM title:
- Kalbi’s Little Bear BN RM FDC CGCA CGCU TKP RM owned by Cheryl Sargeant of Milwaukee, WI
Congratulations to these dogs who have added more RMs to their names:
- Chloe Wild Child UDX OM1 BN VER RM3 RAE3 SCA SIN SEN THD CGC TKA owned by Nancy C. Nelson of Manorville, NY
- Maxwell Ferguson Mullen Awtrey CD BN RM3 RAE2 CGCA CGCU TKN owned by Barbara and Robert Awtrey of Ellicott City, MD
RAE
Multiple Rally Advanced Excellent (RAEs)
Congratulations to these dogs who have added more RAEs to their names:
- Bossman Sweetater Freighter RAE22 owned by James and Barbara Roberts of Lakeland, FL
- Chloe Wild Child UDX OM1 BN VER RM3 RAE3 SCA SIN SEN THD CGC TKA owned by Nancy C. Nelson of Manorville, NY
- Maxwell Ferguson Mullen Awtrey CD BN RM3 RAE2 CGCA CGCU TKN owned by Barbara and Robert Awtrey of Ellicott City, MD
- Mary’s Abby Girl RAE2 MX MXJ XF owned by Mary A. Ondeck of Hudson, IL
Congratulations to this first-time RAE recipient:
Abby Dabby BN RAE CGC TKN owned by Donald and Naomi Rakestraw of Wichita, KS
In fall 2013, Donald and Naomi had lost one of their dogs and were considering another dog as a companion for Willow (recognized in this issue for earning her RM). They went to Caring Hands Animal Shelter in Newton, KS, to look around; they thought a senior dog might be right for them. When they walked into the kennels, one young terrier mix was very active and tried hard to get their attention. None of the dogs were senior dogs so they turned to leave. That one young dog protested wildly and loudly. She was taken from her kennel, and Donald and Naomi walked her around in the outdoor exercise area. “Willow was with us, and the two instantly got along. This young dog had chosen us and brought new life to Willow who started to act like a puppy again,” Donald said.
“Abby was a stray, found by some people who kept her in a pen. You could see her ribs and all the bones in her tail, and her ears were all chewed up and crusty with fly bites. The dog catcher made the people take her to the shelter where she was fixed up. She was the wiggliest, happiest little dog we’d ever seen, despite the neglect she’d endured.”
They didn’t waste a minute. At 3 pm the Rakestraws left the shelter with Abby Dabby, then went to the vet for a checkup and shots at 4 pm, then to basic dog training class at 6 pm. Only then did they take her home, where she ran in and claimed her place on the couch. “She had already claimed a place in our hearts,” Donald said. “She is now a therapy dog and is competing in rally and obedience. She is a champion snuggler with her mom, dad, and sister.” Abby earned her RAE on August 25, 2018.
Abby
TRACKING
CT Sype’s Harlie AD CGCU FDC RA THDA TKA owned by Gail and George Sype of Rossford, OH
To earn the CT, or Champion Tracker title, a dog must hold all three tracking titles (TD or TDU, TDX and VST). Harlie is only the fifth All-American Dog to achieve this honor.
Gail and George define 9-year-old Harlie as a “very loving happy mooch pooch.” They adopted him at 8 months old from a rescue. “We love our boy beyond words,” Gail said. “The previous owners said he was untrainable. They never gave him a chance. We grabbed the opportunity and ran for it.”
George and Harlie started tracking before All-American Dogs were eligible to participate in the sport. Harlie was sick off and on for the first five months of 2014, the year All-Americans became eligible for the sport. They continued training throughout the summer and entered their first TD event in October. But eight days before the event, George had a stroke. After they both recovered, they went on to earn their TD on May 3, 2015, and their TDU (Tracking Dog Urban) on May 17, 2015.
After achieving the TDU, George decided to pursue the VST (Variable Surface Tracker) and then the TDX. After a few tries and instituting several different training techniques, they received their VST on May 14, 2017. “What a great Mother’s Day present for me while I was undergoing cancer treatment,” Gail said. A year and half later, on Nov. 4, 2018, they obtained their TDX, making Harlie a Champion Tracker.
“Our journey was long, but well worth it. We had a great track trainer. We met a lot of new friends, and continue to keep in touch. The clubs (Fort Wayne, Thorn Creek, Marshbanks, and Lansing) whose events we attended were beyond fantastic.”
Harlie enjoys doggie day care where he socializes, has fun, and burns his energy. “He became a therapy dog 11 months after he joined our family and he loves doing tricks for the patients and putting smiles on their faces as well as the faces of the care givers. He entertains patients playing a bicycle horn and tambourine. Over the summer/fall we had fun obtaining his Farm Dog Certificate,” Gail said.
Future goals include competing in AKC Scent Work and a TD2, possibly a VST2, and continuing with rally and therapy dog work.
Harlie
Trick Dog
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.
To learn more about the program, click here.
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TKE (Trick Dog Elite) the highest title
Dixon’s Jack TKE owned by Paula Dixon of Salem, OR
Jack is a 10-year-old Cocker Spaniel mix. He was adopted from an animal shelter at 6 weeks. In addition to learning and performing tricks, Jack loves agility and going for walks and taking naps. He lives with his cat brother, Monte.
Jack
Sebastian Barrington Boles TKE owned by Cynthia and Wayne Boles of Kansas City, MO
Sebastian is a 5-year-old German Shepherd Dog who had been on death row at the Leavenworth Animal Control when Missouri German Shepherd Dog Rescue saved him. Cynthia and Wayne adopted him in November 2014 when he was about 1 year old.
They immediately enrolled him in obedience classes where he earned his CGC in February 2015. Cynthia began teaching him tricks right away. “It was a good fit for both of us. He is such a people pleaser,” Cynthia said. They earned their first Novice Trick Certification with Do More With Your Dog in May 2016; Intermediate, July 2016; and Advanced, February 2017. Sebastian earned his AKC TKE on Aug. 13, 2018, by submitting a video, with the help of their 12-year-old grandson who wrote the script and recorded the video. “Sebastian is always eager to learn something new. It’s not a good day if we don’t work on something,” said Cynthia.
Sebastian is also the face of Advantage II Extra Large Breed, all over the country and the internet. “We even had an Instagram follower mail us a package with his face on it, from the Netherlands. He is an international star!”
Sebastian
Sergeant Pepper Promises and Prevails AD RN TKE owned by Joy and Jerry Dyson of Indianapolis, IN
Pepper came to Joy and Jerry as a 12-month-old rescue. “As a high-spirited feisty hound mix, his passion is to tree squirrels and dig for earthworms,” Joy said. His puppy flair soon earned him a Rally Novice title. “He loves creating his own agility courses! His nose goes into overdrive when searching in barn hunt.”
After doing one dog trick without a cue, he quickly learned several dog tricks and even a music freestyle routine. His alertness and loud vocals only add to the fun of watching him do tricks. A few years later, he quickly earned his Do More With Your Dog Expert trick title and soon after earned his AKC Trick Dog Performer title in 2017. In 2018 earned his AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer title and Achiever Dog status. “His favorite reward is endless sniffing!”
Pepper
Congratulations to these All-American Dogs who have earned the Trick Dog Performer title:
- Beauzoe Of Horsepower Ranch BN RN CGC TKP owned by Judy Katz of Colorado Springs, CO
- Seabiscuit Breuer CGCA CGCU TKP owned by Grace Breuer of Nipomo, CA
- The Butler Did It at Marlin Court CD BN CGCA CGCU TKP owned by Sarah Smith of Raleigh, NC
- Maxwell Boyce CGC TKP owned by Kristin Boyce of San Jose, CA
- Misty Hulick TKP owned by Debra Hulick of Butler, PA
- Scruffy Karma CGC TKP owned by Laura Morgan of Glendale, AZ
- Luna Baluna SCN CGC TKP owned by Lisa M. Quibell of West Jordan, UT
- The Outlaw Josie Wales TKP owned by Cheryl Cieslinski of Franksville, WI
- Meant to Be CA TKP owned by Sandy Marshall Baird of Beamsville, ON
- Cody Nolan Graves BN RE ACT2 CGCA TKP owned by Karen Graves of Urbana, IL
- Jen-Ai Of the Sixth Happiness CGCA CGCU TKP owned by Cynara “Margaret” Laird of Slidell, LA
- Tanit Tribe Shall We Dance TKP owned by Stephanie Roulet of Farnborough Hampshire, UKG
- Maggie Mae Of Boyce THD CGC TKP owned by Kathi Hall of Boyce, VA
- Shameless Wee Winged Archer RN TKP owned by Kelly Castle of Clermont, FL
- Lulu Belle of The Ball RN THD CGCA TKP owned by Carol Meyer of Derwood, MD
- Bailey Desch TKP owned by Yuching Desch of San Anselmo, CA
- Hey There Georgie Girl CGC TKP owned by Linda J. Osterritter of Pittsburgh, PA
- Sugar Berger CGC TKP owned by Ariel Berger of Tucscon, AZ
- Nedward The Bold BN RA THDN TKP owned by Scott Davidson of Cave Creek, AZ
- Cressline’s Ropin’ Romeo TKP owned by Mary Lynn Marden of Rockaway Beach, OR
- Nash Luch CGCA CGCU TKP owned by Marianne Luch of Naples, FL
- 8th Wonder of The World CGC TKP owned by Angela Vasquez of Santa Clara, CA
- Rudy Foster CGC TKP owned by Patricia M. Foster of Lantana, TX