We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog!
AGILITY
AGCH (Agility Grand Champion)
AGCH MACH6 PACH3 Patterday’s Rocky Raccoon MXS2 PAD MJG2 PJD MXP8 MXPG PADP MJP9 MJPG PJDP PAX3 MFB MFPS TQXP T2B2 T2BP2 BCAT TKN owned by Erin Day & JoAnn Patterson of Saint Peters, MO
From a challenging foster fail to earning the title of #2 All American Dog in 2021, Rocky Raccoon continues to exceed his owners’ expectations. His impressive journey includes reaching the Westminster finals in 2023, winning third place in the 8″ preferred class at the 2024 National Agility Championship and making a memorable appearance at the Premier Cup.
On October 25, 2024, in Wentzville Missouri, Rocky achieved his Agility Grand Championship, proving that dedication and heart matter more than speed. Living with his siblings, Rigby, Eleanor, and Magill, this camera-loving corgi mix has cemented his place among the agility elite. “His journey is just getting started!” Erin said.
Photos courtesy of Xanadu Ranch Photography
AGCH MACH2 Galveston Calder A Lil Bit Of Texas RN MXC PAD MJG PJD MXP MJP2 MFS MFP T2B3 T2BP DJ TKN owned by Sherie & Earl Calder of Clarksville, AR
In 2014 Sherrie was searching for her next agility partner and decided that she wanted to have a rescue. She and Earl found this “adorable little girl” being fostered in Boerne, Texas. “Our application was accepted, and we made a 10-hour drive to pick up my baby who I would name Galveston,” Sherrie said.
Galveston, as a puppy, was incredibly smart and very well behaved. She was so well behaved that Sherrie felt that she might not have the drive for agility. “Boy, was I wrong,” she said. Sherrie worked hard with her, and Galveston caught on quickly to everything. When she started beating Sherrie out of six weave poles, she knew she had to up her game. Galveston was her first fast dog, and she needed to take seminars and classes to learn how to keep up with her.
At trials everyone started watching them because she was fast, which made Sherrie nervous. “I didn’t have to worry though as Galveston always had my back,” she said. “She behaves like a lady outside the ring. Always laid back. But, as soon as we begin the run, she turns on the fire.”
Along with agility, Galveston has competed in dock diving and rally. “She is an amazing partner, best friend, and ‘daughter.’ I’m so proud of her accomplishments and love her immensely for who she is.”
Galveston obtained her AGCH on March 7, 2025, at Northwest Arkansas Agility Group in Fayetteville, Arkansas at almost 11 years old.
Congratulations to these dogs on earning a second AGCH title:
- AGCH2 MACH PACH9 Paige MXB MJB MXP23 MXPB3 PDSP2 MJP21 MJPC2 PJBP2 PAX9 MXF TQX MFPB2 TQXP T2B2 T2BP7 CGC TKA owned by Flora Steffan of Ridgefield, WA
- AGCH2 MACH6 PACH2 Piper Pie Swanson MXC2 PDS MJB3 PJS MXP6 MXPS PDSP MJP6 MJPS PJSP PAX2 MFB2 TQX MFPB T2B10 FCAT3 CGC TKI FITG owned by Diane Swanson of San Antonio, TX
- AGCH2 MACH7 PACH3 Everlasting’s Matilda CD BN RE MXG2 PDS MJG2 PJG MXP8 MXPG PADP MJP8 MJPG PJDP PAX3 MFC TQX MFPS TQXP T2B6 T2BP3 DCAT owned by Elizabeth Powell of Evansville, IN
MACH (Master Agility Champion)
MACH Come Bye Rescue’s Hot Stuff MXB MJB MXF T2B owned by Carrie Kelly of Gary, IN
At about 9 months old, Pepper was pulled from a Texas shelter by Come Bye Border Collie Rescue. He was now in need of a foster home to prepare him for adoption. Carrie took him on and it didn’t take long for her to realize that he should stay. His silly personality fit in perfectly with the rest of her dogs and he was “just so smart, he seemed to learn by osmosis,” she said. He would lie nearby and watch intently as Carrie trained the other dogs and then offer that behavior when it was his turn. Pepper took to agility right away and has excelled. He also loves to run with Carrie, hike in the woods, and fetch his beloved tennis ball and disc. He is a great teammate and most importantly, Carrie’s “best bud!”
After a strained psoas muscle (unrelated to agility), Carrie was unsure he’d be able to continue competing in agility. With great rehab doctors, rest, exercise and treatment, he has come back stronger than ever and earned his MACH title at almost 10 years old on Oct 26 under judge Annette Narel at Pawsitively Heaven in Chicago Ridge, IL. Pepper continues to compete in the Preferred class now and very much enjoys the lower jump height, running just as fast as he had in his younger days. He also runs in the AKC Agility League for SRCC Top Dogs and finished season 8 as #2 All American Dog in his division. “He will continue to play and compete in agility for as long as he tells me he is enjoying it and physically able,” Carrie said. “Go Team Pepper!”
MACH Ballroom Blitz II MXB MJB MXF T2B owned by Kaitlyn Rohr of Loma, CO
Ballroom Blitz was born eight years ago in Meeker, CO on a sheep ranch. “His love for agility is unmatched,” she said. “He truly is a wonderful teammate and agility dog.” They received their MACH on November 1, 2024, in Longmont, CO at the Flatirons Kennel Club trial under Pamela Sturtz. Kaitlyn is excited to see what 2025 brings. “Cheers to my wonderful teammate and special boy Ballroom Blitz.”
MACH Lacey Quaglietta MXB MJB owned by Michael Quaglietta of Monroe Township, NJ
In the summer of 2016, Michael and his wife Jill spotted the “most adorable puppy” on a Georgia rescue website. Lacey was whisked north with other rescue dogs. She arrived in New Jersey safe and sound and immediately became part of their family.
By 6 months, Lacey’s athleticism was impossible to ignore. She was quick and loved to jump. Michael had never been involved in dog agility so he began light training at home, introducing basic commands and gentle agility obstacles in their backyard.
When Lacey was 3 years old, they committed to formal agility classes with a trainer. Jill started as Lacey’s handler, and she only looked to Jill—not Michael. Undeterred, they switched roles, and Michael took over handling. At the start of working with their trainer she was very insecure and submissive. They spent nearly a year practicing tunnels, jumps, and weave poles, celebrating every small victory in private before facing the pressure of a trial.
At her debut trial, now at age 4, Lacey ran in the 20″ jump height class, where at 18.5″ tall, she was always the smallest competitor. Despite her nerves—visible in tentative strides at the start she powered through and earned her first qualifying score, even snagging first place. It was a thrilling affirmation that their hard work was paying off.
Over the next four years, Lacey’s confidence at trials steadily grew. While practice sessions at home showcased her true speed and agility, trial day jitters occasionally resurfaced. Still, she rarely knocked a bar and tackled obstacles with increasing boldness.
On August 11, 2024, at the Sportika Complex in Manalapan, NJ, Lacey earned her MACH. This achievement celebrated her transformation from a shy pup to a poised competitor. Everyone there cheered and were very supportive and happy for Lacey and Michael. Thanks to dog agility, Lacey has blossomed into a confident, joyful athlete. They look forward to many more runs together.
MACH Oxford’s One Of A Kind MXB MJS MFB TQX T2B2 FCAT4 owned by Rene Fitch & Jerald Keif of Boerne, TX
Squeeky earned her first MACH at the Alamo Area Shetland Sheepdog trial at Top Dog Training Center in Helotes, Texas on December 7, 2024. She was celebrating her birthday early as she turned 3 two days later on December 9th.
Rene has been participating in agility since 1996 with various breeds and said that Squeeky is the best agility partner she has ever had. “Her sheer joy at running agility continues to amaze me; she flies though courses barking merrily the whole time,” Rene said. “I call her my ‘agility savant’ because she just gets everything thrown at her.” Squeeky also loves Fast CAT and has earned her FCAT 4.
MACH Bit O Blarney Keegan Killarney CDX PCD BN RAE MXS MJB MFS TQX T2B2 CA DCAT DJ CGC TKA owned by Sarah & Cynthia Friedlander of Cleveland, OH
Keegan came into Sarah’s and her mother’s lives somewhat unexpectedly and stole their hearts. Sarah knew she wanted to train Keegan in agility and at first did not think she would ever learn to do the teeter, the tunnel, or the weaves. But in time she not only learned those skills, but she also loved them.
“When you first start a MACH seems so far off, but we chipped away at it.” On December 27th, 2024, at the German Shepherd Dog Club of Northern Ohio’s agility trial at Pinnacle Dog sports in Westlake Ohio, Sarah and Keegan got their last double Q on some tricky courses under judge Bonnie McDonald. Not only Keegan’s first MACH, but Sarah’s, too.
MACH Daniels’ Mighty Milo MXB MJB MXF T2B BCAT ACT2 ACT2J SWE CGC TKI owned by Randy & Jill Daniels of Spring Hill, TN
Milo was surrendered to a shelter in Mississippi when he was a puppy and then adopted by a family in Alabama. After two weeks he was returned and then transported to Russell Rescue in Columbia, Tennessee where Randy and Jill adopted him, becoming his forever family. “The saying that ‘the third time is the charm’ is true with Milo,” Randy said.
Milo, a Cattle Dog/Rat Terrier/Beagle mix, started his training at Nashville Dog Training Club (NDTC), with basic obedience and then CGC. After watching him climb a hunting tree stand ladder and jumping to the hood of a truck, Randy decided agility might be a good match for his abilities.
Milo earned his MACH at the NDTC trial in Franklin, TN on January 26. They competed in the AKC Agility Nationals in Tulsa, OK in March. Milo loves competing and does not want to leave the facility at the end of their day.
He also enjoys competing in AKC Scent Work trials and is training in AKC tracking, and has been a much loved member of the Daniels family for five years. He enjoys having free rein on their fenced hobby farm, chasing birds and digging for critters. He loves children and is always ready for a car ride and a new adventure. He ends each of his days snuggling under a blanket on Randy’s lap and curled against his side on the bed. “We cherish the joy and love that Milo brings to us.”
MACH Burnt BBQ Beef Brisket MXB MJS MXF T2B BCAT CGC TKI owned by Christina Norman of North Grafton, MA
Christina remembers watching agility on television in the 90s, marveling at the dog/handler teams working together so athletically. But that was before everything was on the internet and she didn’t know how to get started.
In 2017, her newest foster, Brisket, arrived. As Christina lay on the floor the skinny little mixed-breed climbed onto her back and fell asleep. Christina immediately adopted her.
As a Novice A team, Brisket and Christina had a lot to learn. They progressed through basic obedience classes and started training in agility, entering their first trial in 2019 when Brisket was 16 months old. Christina said, “She was a natural; she loved pausing at the top of the A-frame to side-eye the judges and sniff her way through the weaves but the Q’s kept coming and the ribbons filled up our trophy wall quickly.”
Each time they stepped to the line Christina’s heart would pound and her palms got sweaty but she was hooked. She would imagine the “cameras” following them through the course like she had seen so long ago… until March 2020 when COVID put a stop to trialing. Luckily, they had enough space at home to accrue some basic equipment and do online training sessions.
Once trialing resumed, they found fewer spectators at trials to be a huge benefit, speeding up their ascent to the Master levels. With each success there were new training challenges to overcome and they continue to find new ways to strengthen their skills.
Today they are proud to be a hard-working and friendly All-American team. They earned their MACH on February 1, 2025, at American K9 Country in Amherst, NH.
MACH G2 Comin’ In Hot MXB MJS PJD MFS T2B4 owned by Gill Chapman & Maxie Foster of Jacksonville, FL
Chowdah is 5 years old and when he first started to compete in agility, Gill would say he was “the conductor on Hot Mess Express; he had a full time, paid position with benefits.” This was mostly due to the fact that when he competed he would visit the ring crew, judge, and anyone else at ringside. There is a saying in agility: “you see crazy, I see potential,” that fits Clam Chowdah perfectly. It took a long time to get a consistent routine and even longer to get consistent enough to QQ. Chowdah has a very large personal space bubble and prefers to work at a distance and doesn’t think very much about collection or listening. But Gill saw potential and through a lot of work they started to become a team.
On February 2, 2025, at the local Pals and Paws trial in Jacksonville, Florida he became an agility champion. He is almost halfway to his AGCH and Gill is hopeful that with continuous work and some good listening on his part he will continue to achieve more champion titles.
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning the MACH title:
- MACH Bear Kochiss MXS MJS owned by Brittany Kochiss of Trumbull, CT
- MACH Matzke’s Kronk RM MXB MJB MFB TQX T2B2 ACT2 RATO DSA AS AJ HDJ CGC TKA owned by Roger Matzke of Penndel, PA
- MACH Stewie Rolfes RA MXB MJS NF SCN SEN SBN TKN owned by Damaris W. Rolfes & John Rolfes of Columbia, MO
- MACH Hrh Buttercup MXB MJB XF CGC TKA owned by Julia Feczko of Chicago, IL
- MACH Roxx MXB MJS PJD MFB TQX T2B3 CGC TKA owned by Diann Engquist of Vancouver, WA
- MACH The Most Magnificent Mango MXB OF owned by Jacqueline Roberge of Mount Pleasant, MI
- MACH Topshelf’s French Kiss MXB MJS MFB T2B2 owned by Jennifer McDonald of Pacific, MO
- MACH Extreme Bonus Round RN MXB MJB MFB T2B FTN owned by Mary E. Greenwell of Wright City, MO
- MACH Breezyblue’s Master Of Luck MXB MJS MFB T2B2 owned by Jennifer Masterson of Zanesville, OH
- MACH Astra’s Love You To The Moon MXS MJS MFB T2B2 owned by Debra Wren of Sugar Grove, IL
- MACH Tinkerer MXB MJB XF owned by Elana Rosenberg of Louisville, KY
Congratulations to these dogs who have added more MACH titles to their names:
- MACH2 Serena X MXG MJG MFS TQX T2B owned by Virginia Besthoff of New Orleans, LA
- MACH2 Belle Sams Chandler MXG PAD MJG MXF TQX T2B2 ACT2 TKI owned by Sharon Sams Chandler of Roanoke, TX
- MACH2 Meadow Full Of Misty Purple RA FDC MXG MJG XF T2B CAA FCAT CGC TKN owned by Willow Martin & Randi Martin of Williamsburg, VA
- MACH2 Tesla Lightning Strikes Twice CD BN RE MXS MJG MXF T2B FCAT TKN owned by Kenneth & Yvonne Smith of West Dundee, IL
- MACH2 Tully Wully MXG MJS XF T2B ACT2 ACT2J SWN TKI owned by Carla Rash of Plainville, CT
- MACH2 Burke’s Tallulah MXS MJS owned by Shawna Burke of Helmetta, NJ
- MACH3 RACH2 McMahon’s Marnie BN RM6 RAE4 MXS2 PAD MJB2 PJDP MFS TQX T2B ACT2 ACT2J CGCU owned by Jean McMahon of Ballston Spa, NY
- MACH3 Valeria Richards Yacnamara MXC MJC PJD MFS TQX T2B4 owned by John Yackel of West Lafayette, IN
- MACH3 Ellie Kochiss MXC MJC XF T2B owned by Brittany Kochiss of Trumbull, CT
- MACH3 Rue Of Silver Creek CDX BN MXG MJC BCAT CGC owned by Judy & Eberhard Biesenthal of Woodstock, IL
- MACH4 Mulberry’s Gogo Jojo MXB2 MJG2 PJD MFC TQX T2B5 BCAT ACT2 CGC TKI owned by Molly Winder of Green Bay, WI
- MACH4 Moka Douglas MXB2 MJS2 MFG TQX T2B5 CGC TKN owned by Margarita Douglas of Saint Petersburg, FL
- AGCH MACH5 Finnigans Give Me A Little Wiggle Room MXS2 PDS MJS2 PJS MFC TQX T2B5 owned by Beth Bruno of Mount Laurel, NJ
- MACH5 Ann Perkins MXB2 PDS MJB2 PJS MFS TQX T2B5 CGC TKN owned by Chiaki Ito of Wilmington, NC
- MACH5 Tobago’s Galla Trace RN MXS2 MJS2 OF TKA wned by Leanne Ksiazek of Westhampton, MA
- MACH6 Stricklers Hey Mama Rock Me MXG2 MJB3 BCAT SWE SCME SEME SIM TKP owned by Kaydi Grunhovd of Euclid, MN
- MACH10 Sachiko Lawn Dart MXC3 MJC3 XF T2B4 owned by Krisanne Crosby of North Chesterfield, VA
- AGCH MACH17 Mighty Milo Vogel MXC4 PDS MJS5 PJS MFG TQX T2B5 owned by Kathleen Vogel of Bay City, MI
PACH (Preferred Agility Champion)
PACH Farm Boy Risin Star MXP6 MXPS MJP6 MJPS PAX MFPB TQXP BCAT ACT2 TKN owned by Kimberly Cooley of Belleville, WI
Nova, a Border Collie/Great Pyrenees cross born on a farm, was rescued by Kimberly. She eventually started agility just for fun to give his brain something to think about and to build his confidence. He had stress and reactivity issues they eventually worked through even though Kimberly was told they would never trial. “He was my novice A dog, which meant I had everything to learn too,” she said.
Despite the hurdles, they earned his PACH at the Medallion Rottweiler Club Trial on Nov 8, 2024, in Loves Park, Illinois under Judge Tim Pinneri where it came down to the final point. “We lovingly call him the world’s slowest Border Collie but the world’s fastest Pyrenees.”
PACH Kittyhawks Bonnie Kate AX AXJ MXP3 MXPB MJP5 MJPS PAX owned by Carole Lynn Evans of Franktown, CO
Kate was a street dog who was rescued, fostered and adopted out. But her first adoption didn’t work out, and she was returned to the rescue organization.
“She had a bit of ‘street’ still in her and she was unpredictable,” Carole said. Serious reactivity made her future uncertain. She was moved to the home of one of the rescue organization’s directors and given a full health check. She got a clean bill of health, but reactivity was still a problem.
Carole, a long-time foster for the rescue, got a phone call. Could she give Kate a chance? She was really out of other options. “Of course we would take her,” Carole said. They worked on her reactivity and began agility and rally training and going to trials just to “hang out.” When they began competing, Kate was initially a bit war,y but she grew into the sport and found herself.
On Nov. 29, 2024, at Pikes Peak Agility Club’s trial, Kate completed her PACH. “It is an absolute honor to have her in our lives; we are ever grateful to the people who gave her another chance. Most of all, thank you Kate!”
PACH Latte The Diva Dog MXP5 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX2 NFP owned by Loretta Holmberg of Reisterstown, MD
Latte, 9 years old, has traveled an incredible path, both in miles and in accomplishments. A rescue from Kuwait, she arrived in the United States at just 4 months old in 2016. Little did she know she would one day earn an agility championship!
Her agility journey began in late 2020, when she was almost 5 years old. With the COVID pandemic limiting opportunities, she didn’t return to group classes until 2021. Once back in training, she steadily worked her way up. She made her AKC trial debut in September 2023 at 7 ½ years old and earned her PACH on December 6, 2024, at the Oriole Dog Training Club trial in Maryland under judge Terry Elger.
As Loretta’s first-ever dog, Latte is not only her beloved companion but also her novice agility partner, making every milestone even more meaningful. In March 2025, the pair reached another major milestone: competing at the AKC National Agility Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma for the very first time. Latte brought determination, heart, and a deep connection with her handler to every run.
The duo trains with Cynthia Hornor at Branchwater Training Center in Maryland, focusing on teamwork and consistency.
Outside of agility, Latte’s passion is playing fetch — she could chase her Chuck-It ball all day if given the chance. At home, she enjoys the company of her best friend, Little Miss Madi, an 11-pound Miniature Pinscher who keeps her on her toes.
PACH Crum’s Emerald Isle MX MXJ MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX XF MFP T2BP FCAT2 CGC TKI owned by Carolyn Crum of Roscoe, IL
Emmy is a Maltese/Poodle mix Carolyn rescued from Cause for Paws in January of 2020. “She is a fun dog to work with and loves to play tug,” Carolyn said. “She is the first dog I have ever had that will also fetch any soft toy, big or little, and return it to me.”
Six-pound Emmy is very fearful outdoors, having been attacked by large dogs. Carolyn was told early on that she would probably never be able to compete because of this history.
But at the start line she gets to work without delay. Emmy is very smart and fast and Carolyn, 82 years old, is trying to learn new ways to compete with her as she tends to slow her down.
Emmy earned her PACH at the Border Collie Society of America National Specialty Trial held at Forest City Dog Training Club in Loves Park, Illinois in December 2024.
PACH Ryan’s Super Star MXP4 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MFPB TQXP T2BP owned by Tamy Ryan of Wilsonville, OR
Star was 6 months old when Tamy rescued her. She was anxious around barking dogs and hated repetitious training. “On top of her issues, I was an inexperienced handler,” Tamy said. Star’s big reward was to play in the agility ring with Tamy’s other dog and over time she became more comfortable in the agility setting.
They had set their sights on their first competition right before the COVID pandemic, which ended up being a good thing. They participated in at-home trials at Tamy’s practice barn and had the opportunity to work with a smaller number of dogs. In this environment of kind and skilled handlers, Tamy received helpful feedback and was able to retrain the weave poles and contacts and gain more speed. It was a slower path toward their PACH, but far more successful. They achieved their championship in January at the Rose City Classic in Portland, OR.
“Star is an amazing partner,” Tamy said. “She motivates me to be a better handler. She has great focus, speed, and is a very accurate jumper. Every day I am thankful for her.”
MACH2 PACH Coco Quickly FDC MXB2 MJG MXP6 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX2 MFG TQX MFPB TQXP T2B6 T2BP CGCA TKN owned by Betsie Bolger of Dallas, TX
Coco is Betsie’s Novice A and very first agility dog. She was very shy when she was adopted by Betsie and her husband from the SPCA of Texas, “where she crawled to me on her belly into my lap and straight into my heart,” Betsie said.
When picking her up at her twice-weekly doggie day care sessions, Betsie noticed that Coco liked to run fast and jump over things. So she thought agility lessons might help build her confidence, and that they would just take a few classes for the fun of it. As a lifelong equestrian who competed to the Olympic showjumping level before turning pro as both a rider and trainer, she thought she didn’t need the pressure of competing again.
But Betsie forgot how much she enjoys competing. When the head trainer at the club where she was taking lessons mentioned that the club was holding a trial the following month and she should enter with Coco, she jumped at the chance.
That was back in 2016, and the two of them have been running as one for the joy of it ever since. Coco earned two MACHs while jumping eight inches and earned her first PACH on January 17, 2025, at the Tyler Obedience Training Club’s AKC trial in Tyler, TX.
2025 also marks Coco’s and Betsie’s third trip to the AKC National Agility Championship and Coco’s first time competing in the four-inch Preferred height division. She ran clean in three out of three runs, as she also did at eight inches in 2021 and 2022.
“I am so grateful to Lisa Jarvis and Julie Stanek of Center for Canine Sports in Garland, TX, as well as to Brenda Kelly, for teaching Coco and me to enjoy this sport together!”
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their PACH titles:
- PACH Riley Bartak MXP5 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX XFP owned by Julie Bartak of Thousand Oaks, CA
- MACH PACH Lana Clair de Lune CDX BN RM MXB MJB MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MFB TQX MFPB TQXP T2B2 T2BP ACT2 CGCA owned by Sheryl L. Greene of Grand Haven, MI
- MACH8 PACH Siegel’s Cali MXC2 PAD MJC2 PJD MXPB MJPB PAX MXF TQX T2B BCAT DN owned by Lauren Siegel of Dinwiddie, VA
- PACH Lightening III MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX XFP T2BP2 owned by Charles Kincaid of Beech Creek, PA
- MACH3 PACH Smarti Marti MXG PAD MJG PJD MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX XF T2B owned by Mary Dougherty of Colorado Springs, CO
- MACH3 PACH Nostromos Shadow Chaser MXG MJC MXPB MJPB PAX MXF TQX MFP T2B2 T2BP owned by Laura Harper of Ellisville, MO
- PACH Handsome Doug OA OAJ MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX NFP owned by Gayle Dow of Moses Lake, WA
- MACH PACH Barky Sparky MXS MJS MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MFB MFP T2B3 T2BP DCAT DS DJ owned by Michael Rinstad of Chisago City, MN
- PACH Shadow King Kirby MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX XFP owned by Jennifer Kirby of Mount Vernon, WA
Congratulations to these dogs who have added more PACH titles to their names:
- PACH2 Little Miss Nita Atim Sagueneene BN RE MXP6 MXPS MJP9 MJPG PAX2 MFP T2BP ACT2 SWN SEA SBA DJ CGC TKA owned by Nathalie A Inho of Newington, CT
- PACH2 Skye Bear K FDC NA NAJ MXP5 MXPS PADP MJP5 MJPS PJDP PAX2 MFP TQXP T2BP2 ACT1 CGCA CGCU TKP VHMA PACH2 owned by Beth Kline of Nashville, TN
- MACH PACH2 Belle’s Gingersnap RE MXS MJB MXP6 MXPS MJP7 MJPS PAX2 OF T2B CGC TKP FTN owned by Donna Zygarlicke of Marshfield, WI
- PACH2 Molly Higgins Of Creekside MXP8 MXPG MJP9 MJPG PAX2 XFP T2BP2 TKA owned by Terri Higgins of Peyton, CO
- PACH2 Triple F RE MXPB MJP8 MJPG PJDP PAX2 MFP TQXP T2BP2 CGC TKA owned by Kayla Feeney of Lima, NY
- PACH2 Kona Whitney AX AXJ MXP7 MXPS MJP7 MJPS PAX2 MFP T2BP owned by Sharon Hallberg of Naples, FL
- PACH2 Piper Rasmussen AX AXJ MXP5 MXPS MJP9 MJPG PJDP PAX2 OF MFP T2B T2BP ACT2 CGC owned by Denise Rasmussen of Earlham, IA
- AGCH2 MACH6 PACH2 Piper Pie Swanson MXC2 PDS MJB3 PJS MXP6 MXPS PDSP MJP6 MJPS PJSP PAX2 MFB2 TQX MFPB T2B10 FCAT3 CGC TKI FITG owned by Diane Swanson of San Antonio, TX
- AGCH MACH6 PACH2 Mister Tedley MXS2 PDS MJS2 PJD MXP5 MXPS MJPB PJDP PAX2 MFG TQX MFPB TQXP T2B6 T2BP2 ACT2 TKA owned by athy Crain of Madison, AL
- PACH2 Minnow Pell MXP6 MXPS MJP7 MJPG PAX2 MFPG TQXP owned by Rob Pell of Grants Pass, OR
- AGCH MACH6 PACH3 Riley’s Jesse MXS2 PDS MJS2 PJS MXP10 MXPC MJP9 MJPG PAX3 MFC TQX MFPS TQXP T2B8 T2BP2 FCAT4 CGC TKA owned by Carol Riley of an Antonio, TX
- AGCH MACH6 PACH3 Patterday’s Rocky Raccoon MXS2 PAD MJG2 PJD MXP8 MXPG PADP MJP9 MJPG PJDP PAX3 MFB MFPS TQXP T2B2 T2BP2 BCAT TKN owned by Erin Day & JoAnn Patterson of Saint Peters, MO
- AGCH2 MACH7 PACH3 Everlasting’s Matilda CD BN RE MXG2 PDS MJG2 PJG MXP8 MXPG PADP MJP8 MJPG PJDP PAX3 MFC TQX MFPS TQXP T2B6 T2BP3 DCAT owned by Elizabeth Powell of Evansville, IN
- PACH3 Alfonzo Frankie Francis MXP11 MXPC MJP14 MJPB2 PAX4 NFP ACT2 owned by Angela Francis of Lavonia, GA
- AGCH PACH5 Nevada Cricket MXP18 MXPG2 PDBP2 MJP16 MJPS2 PJBP2 PAX5 MFPS2 TQXP T2BP10 CGC TKA owned by Flora Steffan of Ridgefield, WA
- PACH8 2fs Fisher Dog MXP20 MXPC2 MJP24 MJPB3 PAX8 T2BP SWE SCM SHDA TKA owned by Julie & Nathan Free of Inola, OK
- AGCH2 MACH PACH9 Paige MXB MJB MXP23 MXPB3 PDSP2 MJP21 MJPC2 PJBP2 PAX9 MXF TQX MFPB2 TQXP T2B2 T2BP7 CGC TKA owned by Flora Steffan of Ridgefield, WA
- AGCH2 MACH PACH9 Paige MXB MJB MXP23 MXPB3 PDSP2 MJP21 MJPC2 PJBP2 PAX9 MXF TQX MFPB2 TQXP T2B2 T2BP7 CGC TKA owned by Flora Steffan of Ridgefield, WA
Coursing Ability – CAT
One of the easiest ways to get involved in the world of dog sports is with a Coursing Ability Test (CAT). Designed specifically for newcomers, each dog chases after an artificial lure on either a 300- or 600-yard-long course and must finish in less 1 ½ minutes and 2 minutes, respectively.
COURSING ABILITY
CAX (Coursing Ability Excellent)
McDonald’s Spice CAX FCAT7 owned by Kay McDonald of Inman, SC
Spice, 10 ½ years old, started in Coursing Ability just over a year ago and earned her CAX on November 16, 2024, in Camden, South Carolina. She also loves competing in FastCAT. Her sports career began with playing flyball which she enjoyed in New England and in South Carolina. She also has titles in dock diving NADD in distance, air retrieve and Hydro Dash. She has competed in AKC Agility League and disc league.
When not competing in dog sports, Spice works as a certified bedbug detection dog for Kay’s business, Bed Bug Detection K9s. She has been a certified detection dog for the last nine years. “She is a bulletproof, focused, working dog and loves finding her ‘b’s,’” Kay said.
Spice sustained a psoas tear two years ago, and after five months of rehabilitation has been able to return to work and competition. “And she hasn’t looked back.”
Unchained And Hit The Ground Runnin CAX FCAT RATN CGCA CGCU TKA ATT FITB owned by Allie Benedict of Kennesaw, GA
Sadly, Eddie crossed the rainbow bridge in February. He earned his Coursing Ability Excellent title at Time To Fly’s 2024 Winter Wonderland event. “I couldn’t have asked for a better event to end on,” Allie said. FastCAT was by far Eddie’s favorite sport; anyone who met him on the field knew he could barely contain his excitement. “Thank you to everyone who supported us and loved him while he was here.”
Flying Wallenda The Iceman Cometh RM RAE NAP NJP NFP CAX FCAT CGCA TKN FITG owned by Kim Roberts of Thurmont, MD
Ice is a Shetland Sheepdog/Border Collie mix with drive and a sweet temperament. As a puppy, he tried puppy fun runs at a local lure coursing event, where he followed the “bunny” with no hesitation. Once he met all the requirements to compete, Ice began his CAX journey and earned his title on December 6, 2024, in Hanover Pennsylvania. Before that, he earned his FCAT in Walkersville Maryland in August 2024.
Ice is a willing partner and competed in multiple dog sports 2024, earning his Rally Master, Rally Advanced Excellent, Novice Agility Preferred, Novice Jumpers Preferred, and Novice FAST Preferred – quite the busy boy. “He is a driven teammate, and a sweetheart to all he meets,” Kim said. “The best is yet to come.”
Dirty White Beach CAX FCAT SWN CGC TKN owned by Hannah Hebert of Galliano, LA
Izzy is a 7 year old foster fail from Hannah’s local shelter. “She is a crazy girl who loves to play with any and everything – water bottles, dog toys, tape rolls… you name it, she will play with it!” Hannah said.
Hannah didn’t know much about the world of dog sports when she got Izzy. In 2021 they began the journey into them and Izzy was glad to be there with Hannah every step of the way. “She loves to do it all – Barn Hunt, scent sports, and especially chasing the trash bunny!” Hannah can’t wait to see what the future may hold for Izzy and hopes she can be an inspiration for more people to do things with their rescue dogs.
Izzy earned her CAX at the Boxer Club of Louisiana’s Santy Paws event on December 7, 2024.
Hiccup The Horrendous FDC CAX FCAT CGCA TKI owned by Mackenzie Patterson & Thomas Poteat of Lexington, SC
Mackenzie found Hiccup while she was working on an article about shelters following the end of COVID lockdowns in 2021. While researching the article, she saw him on a rehoming page on Facebook. She and Thomas adopted him, fell in love immediately and named him after a beloved character from their childhoods. Hiccup started going everywhere with them, including to a FastCAT event to cheer on some friends. They signed him up for a fun run and he’s been running ever since.
“Hiccup is our accidental sport dog,” Mackenzie said. “When we brought him home performance events weren’t even on our radar. Now he does a little bit of everything.” They enjoy canicross, Barn Hunt, dock diving, and more. “If he’s excited about it, we’ll play it.”
He is now 3 years old, going on 4, and CAT is his favorite thing to do. Mackenzie and Thomas say that Hiccup is a little too smart for his own good and they always get laughs watching him try to outsmart the lure on the field. He’s a very prey driven dog so they appreciate the opportunity to give him a safe outlet where he can chase the bunny to his heart’s content.
“Hiccup makes us proud every day and earning his CAX and FCAT in the same weekend is something we’ll never forget,” Mackenzie said. “He’s got such a big, beautiful personality and we’re lucky to have him as our first dog.”
Setting The World On Fire CAX FCAT CAX owned by Jeana Winterbottom of Bradenton, FL
Sully became too much dog for his first family of three years, found himself in a shelter, and was adopted by Jeana. Her female Dalmatian needed a play buddy, so Sully found his “forever tribe.”
“Let me tell you, he is a ball of fire and energy (hence his registered name) and strong as an ox,” Jeana said. At a friend’s request, during the Dalmatian Nationals, she tried him in Fast CAT and then coursing to see if either would be an outlet for some of that energy. The rest is history. Within three months, he earned his CAX at the Florida Classic Cluster in Brooksville, Florida, January 17, 2025, with the Sunshine State Rhodesian Ridgeback Club. Within six months, he earned his FCAT, also during the 2025 Florida Classic Cluster.
Sully has quite the fan club. His striking appearance, coupled with his sweet personality, melts hearts wherever he goes. Being an off-standard color prevents him from being shown in conformation, but during the 2024 Dalmatian Club of America Nationals he was used in the judges’ educational seminar to show the lemon color by definition. His current endeavors include Barn Hunt and Dock Diving training; both of which greatly appeal to him.
Watching him excel in performance sports is a lot of fun for both Sully and Jeana, but at the end of the day, the best moments are seeing the confidence and playfulness he instills in his sister, Maddie. A shot in the dark became a perfect fit between the two dogs. They both got the balance, friend and love needed.
Photos courtesy of Kim Langevin, Blue Dog Photography
Congratulations also to these dogs who have earned the CAX title:
- Levi The Schmevi MXP MJP2 CAX FCAT3 ACT1 CGCA CGCU TKN FITB owned by Ann Crum of Dayton, OH
- Breeding’s Jameson RI CAX FCAT SWA CGC TKN owned by Abi Breeding of Dumfries, VA
- Sincity’s Polyjuice Potion FDC CAX FCAT2 ONYX RATS CZ8B DE DM HDM CGCA CGCU TKA VHMA FITG owned by Katie Weihbrecht of Iowa City, IA
Congratulations to these dogs on adding more CAX titles to their names:
- DMT’s Christmas In Dixie FDC CAX12 FCAT50 RATN DN CGCA CGCU TKP ATT FITG FTI owned by Danny Terry of Eclectic, AL
- WSC Stone Canyon Jasper RN CAX4 DCAT CGC TKA owned by Jennifer Strubinger of Milton, NH
- Rudolfo CAX3 BCAT SIN owned by Wynne Phillips of Beacon, NY
- Lacy Leigh AX AXJ MXP2 MJP XF MFP CAX3 FCAT10 SWM SCME SEME CGC TKN owned by Maria Barton of Newport News, VA
- Lady Midnight CAX2 FCAT6 CGCA CGCU TKN FITB owned by Ann Crum of Dayton, OH
- Bad And Beaugie CAX2 FCAT2 TKN owned by Katherine Ball of Murrayville, GA
- Julia VII FDC CAX2 FCAT SWN SCA SIA SEA DM DSX CGCA TKN FITB owned by Kerstin Thompson of DeSoto, TX
FastCAT
AKC ranks the fastest dogs of each breed in Fast CAT. Congratulations to the top five fastest All American Dogs in each height division! The speed shown is an average of the dog’s three top speeds for the season up to June 2, 2025:
| RANK | DOG NAME | MPH |
| Below 12” | ||
| 1 | Stevie Davis BCAT | 26.32 |
| 2 | Talia Grace’s Crystal Blue Persuasion BCAT | 25.24 |
| 3 | Toni Bennett RN FDC FCAT3 CGCA TKE FITG FTI | 24.89 |
| 4 | Richerson’s Cosmos BCAT | 24.58 |
| 5 | Sherlock’s Sidekick Dr. Watson DCAT | 24.16 |
| 12” – under 18” | ||
| 1 | This Girl Is On Fire MX MXJ MJB XF CA FCAT4 RATN | 31.39 |
| 2 | Sincity’s Polyjuice Potion FDC CAX FCAT3 ONYX RATS CZ8B DE DM HDM CGCA CGCU TKA VHMA FITG | 31.31 |
| 3 | Black Ink FCAT9 | 30.32 |
| 4 | Missjiff.Gif MXP2 MJP4 MJPB MFP T2BP2 CA FCAT8 ACT2 ACT2J ONYX CGC TKN | 29.93 |
| 5 | Hydeout’s Shamus CAX FCAT15 DM AS HDS | 29.50 |
| 18” or greater | ||
| 1 | Mc’s Mayday CA DCAT | 32.89 |
| 2 | Riley Blount BCAT | 32.49 |
| 3 | Lit The Raisin Alliance BCAT | 32.28 |
| 4 | Keltic Madra BCAT | 31.75 |
| 5 | Gaf’s Little Black Ninja BCAT | 31.50 |
RALLY
RACH (Rally Champion)
RACH Huntlin’s Cooper BN RM2 RAE2 FDC CGCU owned by Linda Brown of Aroda, VA
The road to earn an AKC Rally Championship (RACH) title is a long one. Cooper, a 6-year-old English Shepherd, made it look easy. He earned his RACH title November 29, 2024, while competing at the Catoctin Kennel Club Trial at Point of Rocks, Maryland under judge Michael Mooney. At this trial he earned three perfect scores and won both High Triple and High Combined for the trial. This was his 20th trial for RACH, having started this journey in April 2023, and his 11th trial being awarded both High Triple and High Combined.
Overall Cooper has competed in and won 95 AKC Rally classes, earned 11 AKC Rally titles, and competed in four AKC Rally National Championships: winning 4th in Intermediate in 2022, 5th in Advanced in 2023, 4th in Excellent in 2024, and in the top 25% in Championship Class in 2025 while earning two perfect scores. “An amazing accomplishment,” Linda said. Cooper is continuing his journey in the AKC Obedience ring and earned a 197 in Novice Obedience at his first trial in Lynchburg, VA on February 2025. “He loves to compete and we will continue to show in AKC trials in Virginia and Maryland.”
RACH Ozymandias Rags To Riches CD RM4 RAE2 RC2 AX MXJ MXP3 MXPB MJP5 MJPS PJDP MXF T2B BCAT RATS CGCA TKP owned by Kelly Halloran of Somerset, NJ
Ozzy, a scrappy and scruffy “super mutt,” was adopted from a shelter in Arkansas in 2014 after being picked up as a stray. After learning a few basics, Ozzy and his new owner Kelly got hooked on dog sports.
“He has been a fantastic Novice A dog, versatile and enthusiastic,” Kelly said. “He’s up for anything that involves food and spending time with me.” At 12 years of age, Ozzy has had a great career earning titles in obedience, rally, agility, barn hunt, Fast CAT, trick dog and CGC. He has qualified for both the rally and agility national championships for the past three years. Ozzy trains at Princeton Dog Training Club and Kelly is thrilled that he earned his championship title at their club’s trial in North Brunswick, NJ on December 15, 2024.
RACH Hgd Free As A Bird CDX BN RM3 RAE3 owned by Carol Underwood of Easley, SC
Kyte was scaling a ten-foot fence when Carol first saw her; she was a semi-feral dog attached to a local group of street kids.
One day she was left behind on the property Carol rented at the time. She kept living her nomadic life in the semi-rural area and would stop by to deeply sleep on Carol’s couch for a day or so. “This dog can SLEEP,” Carol said. “She started staying longer and being gone for fewer days.”
Kyte eventually allowed herself to become domesticated. Then the day came when she went over to see what Carol was doing with the other dogs – and joined in. “Here we are a couple of years later!” Carol said. At the AKC Obedience Classic in 2023, Kyte placed 9th in Novice. She has multiple High Triple and High Combined wins, too.
At the Rally National Championships, she has had two top 12 placements, and earned her RACH, with High Triple and High Combined, under judge Shannon Jones at the Atlanta Obedience Club trial on February 16, 2025.
RACH Ren Harper BN RM2 RAE3 RC CGCA TKI owned by Anna Bierma & Tim Batten of Des Moines, IA
Ren is a 6 year old rescue from Heart of a Border Collie Rescue in Minnesota. “She is wildly intelligent, incredibly sweet and an all-around fun dog.” Anna said. They have had quite the adventure together to get this championship and Anna is so glad she is the first dog she got to do it with. Ren earned her championship in Decorah, IA at The Good Dog Center on February 22, 2025.
RACH Missi Itsy Bitsy Smith Reynolds UD BN RM3 RAE2 CGCA CGCU TKI owned by Angela Smith of North Fort Meyers, FL
Missi is a rescue, and Angela began training her when she was 5 years old. She lives with Angela and three other dogs: Frosti, Cheddar, and Flash. Missi, at 4 ½ pounds, is the smallest and has to “bob and weave” to stay out of the way. “She is the boss,” Angela said, though “Frosti may think differently.”
Training was lots of work but Missi loved it. Soon she and Angela were going to trials. Missi enjoys earning treats and prancing around the ring “paying attention, mostly,” to Angela.
After Missi earned her UD, she took a break while Angela and Frosti earned a RACH. After that, she started rally with Missi, who loved the extra communication with voice and hands involved. Sometimes Angela “messed up,” but never Missi.
Missi earned her first Rally title on November 25, 2023, and the team continued the journey to their RACH on February 23, 2025. “Missi is 13 years old now but still likes to ‘strut her stuff’ and her tail never stops wagging,” Angela said. They plan to work toward a Rally Choice title.
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their RACH titles:
- RACH Pixie Dixie Dust CDX BN RM2 RAE2 BCAT SCN SHDN CGCA TKN owned by Victoria Roush of Hampshire, IL
- RACH Cindy’s Sky Blue CDX RM3 RAE2 TKI owned by Lucinda Walters of Kevil, KY
- RACH Yoshi Fenton CDX RM2 RAE2 FDC owned by Jayna Fenton of Pasadena, MD
- RACH Nuger’s Pongo CDX RM6 RAE2 RC2 OA AXJ MXF CA BCAT TKN owned by Philip Nuger of Willowbrook, IL
- RACH Brown’s Lexus CD BN RM2 RAE2 FCAT SCN CGC TKN owned by Becky Brown of Maineville, OH
- RACH Bear Stapleton RM4 RAE2 RC2 CGC owned by Kristine Stapleton of Weatherford, TX
- RACH Vanwinkle’s Coco Chanel BN RM3 RAE2 RC OA NAJ BCAT ACT1 ACT1J CGC owned by Starla Vanwinkle of Eaton, OH
Congratulations to these dogs on adding more RACH titles to their names:
- RACH3 Tightline’s Digging For Success CDX PCDX BN GN GO RM9 RAE8 RC FDC FCAT3 CGCA CGCU TKA VHMA FITB FTN owned by Debbie Scepanski of Sussex, WI
- MACH RACH2 Whirley Whirlwind Wind Of Dorian VCD2 UDX PUTD OM1 BN GO VER RM5 RAE4 MXB MJS MXF TQX T2B SWA SCE SIE SBE RATS TKI owned by Sue Kotlarek of Romulus, MI
OBEDIENCE
UD (Utility Dog)
Shanley’s Winston Of Doncaster UD BN RM RAE CGC TKN owned by Andra Shanley of Ellicott City, MD
Winston, 8 years old, has a heart as big as his work ethic. On October 27, 2024, he proudly earned his AKC Utility Dog (UD) title at an AKC All-Breed Obedience Trial hosted by the Mount Vernon Dog Training Club. The event was held at the Catoctin Kennel Club Training Facility in Point of Rocks, MD. It was a day to remember for this determined team.
Winston’s journey to the UD title shows the dedication, patience, and strong partnership that define advanced obedience. The Utility level, one of the highest in AKC Obedience, requires dogs to perform complex tasks like scent discrimination, directed retrieves, and precise signal work—all of which Winston mastered with enthusiasm and style.
As an All American Dog, Winston represents the best of mixed-breed companions. He is loyal, intelligent, and full of personality. His success proves that love and hard work can take any dog far. Whether he’s in the ring or relaxing at home, Winston brings joy to everyone around him with his happy demeanor and eagerness to please.
Andra has worked tirelessly alongside him, building a bond rooted in trust and mutual respect. Together, they’ve logged countless training hours, traveled to trials, and celebrated each milestone along the way. “Congratulations to Winston on this impressive achievement. I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next,” she said.
Windward’s Miss Mattie Ross UD RI CGC owned by Jodi Brunson of Grand Rapids, MI
Mattie came to Jodi from the Barry County Shelter in Michigan. She had been running loose in an industrial area in late fall as the weather started to get very cold and it took the shelter two weeks to catch her. She met Mattie and knew she was special, but did not know how shy she was. “If I moved, she was gone. If a piece of paper fell to the floor, she was gone,” Jodi said. It was two months before Jodi could even touch her. She hand fed her and gradually Mattie learned Jodi was safe. Jodi was looking for a dog for her parents and realized that Mattie would not be suitable for them. But she fell in love with the dog herself.
Jodi decided to try training her. She has trained three Utility dogs as well as narcotic detection, criminal apprehension and tracking dogs for the Justice Department, but Jodi is the smartest dog she has ever trained. “It may have taken us two years to finish each level but for a dog as socially and environmentally sensitive as this little girl, her accomplishments are amazing,” Jodi said. She is a unique looking dog, a Sheltie/Schnauzer mix. People remember her wherever she goes. The pair did a lot of training at Lowe’s, TSC and their local farm store.
“I couldn’t have done this without the help of my friends at the Obedience Training Club of Greater Lansing and my mentor Chris Bach,” Jodi said. “Mattie was my epiphany. I realized that I really didn’t want an OTCH prospect. I am meant to help dogs like Mattie and give them the tools to function in a world that they did not feel safe in.”
Photos courtesy of Cathi Winkles Photography
Deb’s Bernie UD BN RE FDC CGC TKN owned by Debbie Fields of Barrington, IL
Bernie was found wandering the streets near Moberly, Missouri and turned over to Animal Control in December of 2020 when he was 6 months old. He was later turned over to a rescue organization and transported to Illinois, where Debbie adopted him soon after his arrival.
Debbie started obedience training with him right away, and he turned out to be an excellent student. Bernie achieved his Utility Dog title on December 31, 2024, in New Lenox, Illinois at the South Side All Breed DTC Obedience Trial. He is also a great Rally dog having placed 9th at the 2024 Rally Nationals in the Intermediate Division. Bernie has titled multiple times in Drafting Competitions alongside Debbie’s Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, and on his own.
“Bernie is a super cute little All American Dog who is very bright, talented and a joy to be around,” Debbie said.
Congratulations also to these dogs for earning the UD title:
- Emmy Lou Shipp UD BN RN FDC CGCA TKN FTN owned by Samantha & Sandy Shipp of Hermosa Beach, CA
- Sierra Dershowitz UD PCDX BN RI FDC AX AXJ MFB CA DCAT CGC TKP owned by Rena Dershowitz of West Hempstead, NY
- RACH Double R Henri UD BN GN GO RM3 RAE3 BCAT CGC TKN owned by Raymond Reising of Evansville, IN
UDX (Utility Dog Excellent)
Congratulations to these dogs for earning their UDX titles:
- RACH2 Kai Updike UDX OM1 RM5 RAE5 DS AS CGC owned by Chelsea & Chris Updike of Verona, WI
- Corley’s A Taste Of Honey UDX OWNED BY Peter & Mary McCafferty of Naples, FL
- Pote UDX PCD OM1 BN RAE CGC owned by Susan Lindsey of Mogadore, OH
Congratulations to these dogs for adding second UDX titles to their names:
- Ian Catrick Mcdoggal UDX2 OM2 RE TKI owned by Mary Scott of Jacksonville, TX
- Fiz – The Tidal Trickster UDX2 OM3 RA CGC owned by Tiffany A Huebner of Anoka, MN
SCENT WORK
SWD (Scent Work Detective)
Sniffbear Holmes SWD SWME SHDAE SHDM STR owned by Jaime Buethner of Fargo, ND
Bear was adopted at 3 months old by sisters Tracee and Jaime Buethner. While Tracee and Jaime grew up in the world of conformation, junior showmanship and obedience, they had taken a long break from dog sports as their careers got in the way. After finishing his AKC STAR Puppy and countless other obedience classes, it quickly became clear that Bear needed a job, or at least a job that didn’t involve eating remote controls. Despite knowing nothing about Scent Work, Tracee enrolled Bear in a foundation Scent Work class taught by Charlene Schreiber and Nikki Dauk Holmes at the Fargo Moorhead Kennel Club. Bear dragged Tracee into their first class with a lot of enthusiasm and it quickly became apparent that he loved this job. Bear and Tracee entered their first Scent Work trial in Brookings, SD in Apr 2022 where they qualified seven of eight runs and were completely hooked. Bear, Tracee, Jaime and Bear’s sidekick Clyde began traveling across the northern plains to Scent Work trials.
Tracee and Bear completed their SWD title at the St. Paul Dog Obedience Club trial in Nov 2024, at Marine on St Croix, MN. This was just three short years after they started their first Scent Work class. 2024 was a memorable year during which they finished their SWM, SHDM, SWME, SWEE and SHDAE titles.
Bear’s favorite parts of Scent Work are being in charge of the search, investigating distractions and getting treats. Tracee and Bear are grateful to have a sport like Scent Work that allows them to solve puzzles together. In addition to continuing their Scent Work career with HD Elites, Bear and Tracee are also training for obedience and rally trials.
My Whits End SWD SCM SIM SEM CGC owned by Maureen Campos of Turlock, CA
Whit, 5 years old, is Maureen’s second English Shepherd. He came from a cattle ranch on the northern plains of Kansas, “which is surprising since he looks like he just got out of the beauty shop!” Maureen said. He is very sweet and friendly, so Maureen went through the training and certification process for him to become a Therapy Dog. So now in addition to competing in Scent Work, they visit assisted living communities and convalescent homes. Whit loves to be petted.
Maureen’s friends encouraged her to give AKC Scent Work a try, and she’s very glad she did. “AKC Scent Work is fun!” She enjoys the creative hides, and all the people and dog clubs she has met have been so friendly and encouraging. They have gone to a variety of places in California to compete in AKC Scent Work and earned the Detective Title on December 6, 2024, in Elk Grove, CA. And it was an extra special day to also win first place!
“I would like to thank everyone involved in AKC Scent Work for their time, energy, and love of this fun sport!”
Congratulations also to this dog for earning the SWD title:
- Jude Everhart SWD SWME SHDA TKP owned by Ryan Everhart of Winston Salem, NC
Tracking
TD
Rio Grassle Rozzi TD CA DCAT SWM CGC TKI owned by Mariana & Cory Rozzi of Westfield, IN
The Rozzis rescued Rio in November 2021 and at the time, they knew nothing about dog performance sports. They began private lessons with their dog trainer, John Krasich, shortly after getting Rio. “Starting those lessons turned out to be the best decision ever,” Mariana said. “We not only gained an amazing friend for life, but so far, we have tried multiple sports like Scent Work, Tracking, Agility, Dock Diving, Rally, Herding, Barn Hunt, Fast CAT, and CAT.”
When they first began taking lessons, Mariana had no intention of ever entering a trial. She was just looking to learn about all the different sports available and to have fun with her dog. “Rio has been such a good sport and is always willing to try new things,” she said. Since 2023, he has earned multiple titles – CGC, TKN, TKI, FCAT, CA, SWM, TD – and they have truly enjoyed their journey together. “I couldn’t have asked for a better dog. He is my whole life, and I am so grateful to have him by my side.”
Rio’s favorite sports are Scent Work and Tracking, but he also enjoys Agility and Dock Diving. Outside of sports, Rio loves being outdoors and going hiking. “Training him is an absolute blast. He has the sweetest personality and is just the best boy.”
Rio earned his TD on November 24, 2024, at the Queen City Dog Training Club test in Milford, OH.
Roger Barkus Obnoxious TD SWN CGC ATT owned by Victoria E Brown of Chula Vista, CA
Roger may have had a rough start in life, but he started the new year off right by achieving his TD on January 1 at San Pasqual Valley’s Bandy Canyon in Escondido, CA, hosted by the Southwestern Rottweiler Club of San Diego.
Victoria brought Roger home when he was 2 years old, after he had spent eight months with the San Diego Humane Society undergoing treatment for Valley Fever and multiple gunshot wounds. He was recovering but not thriving and began to show signs of giving up. Victoria was asked to be a hospice foster for him. With just one lung and several medications, Roger went home to spend his remaining time with Victoria and her two other dogs. It was estimated that they would have about two weeks together.
But Roger embraced his new world and started to thrive. As months rolled by, they realized he was going to exceed expectations.
Roger is now 14 years old. He outlived his packmates and needed a job. “Rally… meh. Obedience? Big nope,” Victoria said. “Scent Work and Tracking, where his nose was in charge? Now we’re talking.” When Victoria breaks out his sniffing harness he starts chattering and hopping on his hind legs, ready to play the game and trying to get her to move faster.
Victoria is thankful for every day spent with Roger, the hospice fail. She is encouraged by the lessons he has taught in forgiveness, perseverance, and the restorative benefits of a nurturing environment for canines and humans alike.
Ostrander’s Gigi TD owned by Cheryl Ostrander of Riverside, CA
Gigi came from a rescue organization in the mountains of West Virginia called Saving Webster Dogs. Cheryl contacted the rescue after seeing many beautiful hounds available on their Facebook page to tell them she was looking for a young female Plott Hound or Plott mix and to ask if they would allow a dog to be transported to California. The answer was yes, and they had a nice young dog that sounded perfect for Cheryl and that they could arrange transport to CA.
Cheryl’s friend Kathy Pudelko drove her all the way to Livermore, California (a more than six-hour drive) to pick up the dog from the volunteer driver who brought her and several other rescued dogs to California.
Cheryl slowly eased Gigi into tracking training as she transitioned from life in the rural mountains to living in a large city as a family pet and tracking partner. Her friends Kathy Pudelko and Kate Myers helped them get started in tracking. Trainer and Tracking Judge Steven Nytko also helped with her training and gave them the confidence to enter AKC tracking tests.
Gigi passed her Tracking Dog test on January 1 in the beautiful Pasqual Valley in San Diego at the Southwestern Rottweiler Club of San Diego’s annual test.
Cheryl is “so very grateful to the judges and volunteers at the various and welcoming dog clubs, expert trainer Steven Nytko, my tracking friends and especially to the AKC for allowing All American mixed-breed dogs to compete in their tracking tests and other dog sports.”
Stanley Patrick-Glotzer TD MXP AJP CGC TKN owned by Kristen Patrick of Estacada, OR
Stanley, 9 years old, “never refuses a treat, is easygoing and loves everyone,” Kristen said. “He enjoys keeping the squirrels in line and loves greeting us at the door with his favorite stuffed duck that he has had since puppyhood.”
He breezed through Novice, Open and Excellent levels of agility, lumbering through courses with his long legs covering a lot of ground between obstacles. At the Masters level, he started slowing down on the course. He would trot up to the jumps and hop over from a standstill without knocking bars. He was obedient, but he was not having fun.
At about that time a friend of Kristen organized a tracking lesson with a few other agility friends. Her standard Poodle, who is Stanley’s best friend, was one of the other dogs. Kristen had never even heard of the sport of tracking. She could not imagine training her dog to follow the scent of a person walking 400-500 yards through a field to find a leather glove. She was intrigued and thought a change might be good for Stanley.
And it was! By allowing Stanley to use his nose and to be in charge, tracking has built his confidence. A different side of his personality has emerged and the sport has taught Kristen patience, to be in the moment and to trust her dog.
Stanley passed his TD Certification Test November 2, 2024, and passed his TD Test February 9, 2025 at the Portland Dog Obedience Club Tracking Event in Camas, WA. It was even more special because their tracking coach, Lisa Klein, was one of the judges. “I am so proud of him!” Kristen said. “I am still smiling about our accomplishment.”
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning the TD:
- Happy-Go-Lucky Gal TD owned by Julia Loewenson of Saint Paul, MN
- Me And Bobby Mcgee UD RM TD FDC NAJ NAP OJP FCAT SCN SIN CGC TKI ATT FTA owned by Richard Clifton & Jacqualyn Canada of Union, SC
- Shadow Handsome Mutt VCD1 BN RN TDX FDC OA CAX DCAT ACT1 ACT2J RATN CGCA CGCU TKA ATT VHMA FITG owned by Elaine Flores & Gordon Adams-Smith of La Mesa, CA
- Lumi Sinatra TDX FDC NAP NJP CA CGCA CGCU TKI ATT VHMA VHMP FITS FTN owned by Elaine Flores & Gordon Adams-Smith of La Mesa, CA
- RACH Ot’s Underwater Adventure VCD2 UD BN GO RM2 RAE2 AX AXJ XF T2B SCN SIN SEN THDN CGC TKE owned by Kat Brown of Landrum, SC
- Spring Creek’s Quinn TD owned by Kristi Anderson of Eugene, OR
TDX
Congratulations to these dogs on earning the Tracking Dog Excellent (TDX) title:
- Shadow Handsome Mutt VCD1 BN RN TDX FDC OA CAX DCAT ACT1 ACT2J RATN CGCA CGCU TKA ATT VHMA FITG owned by Elaine Flores & Gordon Adams-Smith of La Mesa, CA
- Lumi Sinatra TDX FDC NAP NJP CA CGCA CGCU TKI ATT VHMA VHMP FITS FTN owned by Elaine Flores & Gordon Adams-Smith of La Mesa, CA
TRICK DOG
TKE (Trick Dog Elite Performer)
Monte Rosa’S Swiss Miss CGC TKE owned by Kathryn Ribbens of Boise, ID
Katie met Sierra as a puppy when she temperament-tested her litter for service dog prospects. She selected sweet Sierra and, as a puppy raiser for a nonprofit, Katie then spent a year training her to be a multi-purpose service dog for a veteran with disabilities. Saying goodbye to Sierra at the end of their training together was one of the hardest things Katie had to do. Sierra passed her service dog training with flying colors and went on to be a veteran’s service dog, but her handler gave her up for personal reasons. Sierra’s nonprofit then asked Katie if she would like to train Sierra as her occupational therapy (OT) facility dog. Without a moment’s hesitation, Katie agreed and adopted Sierra as her own dog.
Katie built upon Sierra’s training as a service dog and expanded her tasks into skills she would use to help Katie treat her patients. Sierra earned her CGC within two months of coming home. She passed her Pet Partners therapy dog evaluation a few months later, and Katie earned her Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist credential. They volunteered throughout OT graduate school to provide animal-assisted therapy by partnering with local occupational therapists at their veterans’ home and at a pediatric mental health clinic. Recently, Katie accepted a position at an OT clinic treating people of all ages, where Sierra will get to apply all her training as a facility dog.
Katie used AKC trick dog titles as another opportunity for third-party evaluation of Sierra’s training. She selected tricks that would translate into treatment interventions, including painting, doga (dog yoga), reading, red light-green light, scent tracking, using talking buttons, playing interactive games like Connect 4, and providing deep pressure therapy. Sierra earned her TKE by virtual evaluation on December 17, 2024.
Skildum’s Porter CD RM AX AXJ OF SWD SWME4 TKE owned by Patricia Skildum of Shoreview, MN
Porter, now 6 years old, was picked up by Patricia and her family from Prairie Paws Rescue in North Dakota when he was about 12 weeks old.
Patricia and Porter began practicing tricks as an additional activity that didn’t require adhering to a fixed schedule. They could enjoy the process while honing their skills. Patricia particularly valued the challenge of deconstructing complex tricks into smaller, more manageable tricks, and the time they had together celebrating each milestone achieved. The magic came when all the building blocks came together, and he performed the tricks with such delight. Porter excels at tricks because of his athleticism, eagerness to learn, and love for treats!
It was fun working on a theme for Porter’s AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer (TKE) and finding tricks that went with the theme and piecing them together to tell a story. They presented their skit at Animal Inn Training School in Lake Elmo, MN on January 3, 2025.
“Porter is willing to try anything (particularly if it involves treats),” Patricia said. He is currently working on his Master title in agility, has his AKC Scent Work Master Elite 4 Title (SWME4), has earned his AKC Detective Title 5 times, has his Barn Hunt Senior title (RATS) and his Crazy 8s Silver Barn Hunt Title (CZ8S).
“Porter is truly a gift to our family and a one in a million dog which I am fortunate to have as my partner. I look forward to more adventures with him in the future.”
Bella Mom’s Faithful Shadow CD PCD BN GN RM RAE RC FDC CGCA CGCU TKE ATT BN-V CD-V VHMA VSWE FITG owned by Ingrid K Pranzo of Cape May Courthouse, NJ
Bella is a Labrador Retriever mix adopted from a local New Jersey animal rescue in 2016. She quickly became a valued member of Ingrid’s family. She is always eager to please and learn new things. When Bella was 2 years old they joined a local dog club and that is where they were introduced to the world of AKC. They quickly became addicted to all the different dog sports and now, six years later, Bella has 30 titles. Trick dog is one of their favorites and they try learning something new each month.
Bella is part of a virtual therapy dog group and she and Ingrid use their tricks to entertain seniors around the country. Bella has also performed at the local 4H fair and other community events. Trick dog also helps with focus and attention; they often warm up with a few tricks before going into the rally and obedience rings. Earning the Trick Dog Elite Performer title involved a great deal of creativity and new tricks. Their routine, “Super Dog,” had Ingrid’s living room transformed into Metropolis for a few weeks while they worked towards perfection. A large cardboard box became a phone booth, Ingrid’s Christmas Village became tall buildings to leap in a single bound, and weave poles became light posts. Each day a new idea transformed until the routine was finally recorded and approved by an evaluator. Bella became an Elite Performer February 12, 2025. The team looks forward now to improving on their routine and submitting it to this year’s AKC National Trick Dog Competition.
Longfellow TKE owned by Dr. Joanne Labate of Sherburne, NY
Joanne found Longfellow in the county shelter when he was 7 months old. He lacked confidence and self-control but the shelter staff thought in a stable environment he could thrive.
His drive, aloofness, and independent streak made him difficult to handle in many ways so Joanne immediately started working with a trainer using positive reinforcement methods. After basic obedience there was agility training, which he enjoyed, and barn hunt, which he was not interested in. They progressed to higher level obedience courses and incorporated some trick training. The tricks captivated him and generated a lot of enthusiasm.
They expanded and developed trick routines set to songs such as Don’t Fence Me In and Happy. “Longfellow’s pure joy and excitement shines through during his training and performing,” Joanne said. “When he hears his song, he takes stage and never misses a beat.” The up-close interaction, frequent rewards, fast pace, and variation are a great outlet for his energy, drive and passion.
During the cold winter months, staging and creating videos for evaluation kept them continually challenged and occupied. Longfellow earned his AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer (TKE) on February 14, 2025, through a virtual evaluation. “Our bond and communication have grown incredibly strong during this process. I won’t lie, he is still difficult to manage at times, but now I have techniques to apply and make life easier for him.” Longfellow’s videos can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/FellowTricks
Raider Of Harmon CGC TKE owned by Joelle Boksa of Churchville, NY
Raider was found in an open barn with his littermates during a freezing western New York winter. When Joelle saw their sweet faces she knew she had to help. After taking Raider in, she quickly realized that he would require a lot a more attention and energy than any of her previous dogs. She enrolled him in obedience at a few months old and was surprised by his eagerness to learn.
Over the last two years Raider has enthusiastically mastered everything Joelle has thrown at him. He earned his CGC and began agility. He trained in Flyball and earned two flyball dog titles. He also began competing in Toss & Fetch League on the weekends. Throughout all of this, Raider and Joelle continued to develop his trick repertoire earning the novice through performer tiles. It is one of their favorite things to do and he finally earned his TKE in March 2025 at E-Dot in Rush, NY. His favorite tricks include orbit, spinning, and jumping over anything.
Willa Mae Swanson THDN CGCA TKE owned by Linda & Bob Swanson of Mendota, IL
Willa Mae was born in May 2023 and became part of the Swanson family in August of that year. Right away she displayed her love of people by greeting and entertaining clients when they came to Linda’s hair salon in her home. In light of the enjoyment she seemed to bring, it was decided that she might be a good fit for therapy dog and so began training. She enjoyed training which led to learning tricks to perform during visits.
She is affectionate and playful and enjoys family time, especially when Linda’s and Bob’s granddaughters are around to play with her. She is fond of going on pack walks with her dog friends and their families. Car rides are a favorite pastime, especially if she is on her way to a therapy dog visit, because there she can have fun performing her tricks and making people smile. Willa has earned several titles through the AKC and other organizations and enjoys continued training.
Willa’s TKE performance was recorded at Stone Croft Assisted Living in Mendota, IL, and her title was awarded on March 16, 2025, by video submission. She is a wonderful part of the Swanson family and brings joy to everyone she meets.
Congratulations also to these dogs for earning their TKE titles:
- Sara’s City Of Ember CA FCAT2 ACT1J CGCA CGCU TKE VHMA FITG owned by Sara Drury of Honolulu, HI
- For The Journey Mika TKE VHMA owned by Rocky Indy Kenneally of Hawera, NZL
- Ziefel’s Remington CGCA TKE owned by Kathleen Ziefel of Springwater, NY
- Nutella-19 BN RN TD TDU NAP NJP SWN CGC TKE FITG owned by Becky Robinson of Ithaca, NY
- Dembe RE FDC DCAT CGCA CGCU TKE ATT VHMA VSWB FITB FTN owned by Justine Borghello of York, SC