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. Many dogs are also having success in AKC’s Virtual Titling programs!
Agility
Congratulations to these dogs who have added more MACH titles to their names:
- MACH9 Theodore Teddy Hill MXB3 PDS MJS3 PJS MFS TQX T2B4 owned by Priscilla Hill-Wampler & Jon Wampler of Newark, DE
- AGCH MACH6 Everlasting’s Matilda CD BN RE MXS2 PDS MJG2 PJS MFG TQX T2B5 DCAT owned by Elizabeth Powell of Evansville, IN
- MACH6 Patterday’s Rocky Raccoon MXB2 MJG2 MXF T2B TKN owned by Erin Day & JoAnn Patterson of Saint Peters, MO
- MACH5 Zoey Woofta Crow MXB2 PAD MJB2 PJD MFB TQX MFPB T2B3 FCAT2 TKN owned by Anjie Crow of Hermitage, TN
- MACH5 Siegel’s Cali MXS2 MJS2 MXF TQX T2B BCAT DN owned by Lauren Siegel of Dinwiddie, VA
- AGCH MACH5 PACH Riley’s Jesse MXB2 PDS MJB2 PJS MXP5 MXPS MJP4 MJPB PAX MFS TQX MFP T2B6 T2BP FCAT2 CGC TKA owned by Carol Riley of San Antonio, TX
- MACH3 Finnigans Give Me A Little Wiggle Room MXG PAD MJG PJD MFS TQX T2B3 owned by Beth Bruno of Mount Laurel, NJ
- MACH2 Gurley Go Dawgs Reagin MXS MJS owned by Larry & Tammy Reagin of Richmond, VA
- AGCH MACH4 Piper Pie Swanson MXS2 PDS MJG2 PJD MFC TQX T2B7 FCAT CGC owned by Diane Swanson of San Antonio, TX
- MACH2 Hi, I’M Ted MXS MJS XF T2B owned by Madelyn Rohde of Rio Rancho, NM
- MACH2 Dally II MXG MJC MFB T2B4 owned by Cathy Bibbs-Cornell of Berea, OH
- MACH2 Abby Baker II MXG MJG XF T2B CGC owned by Jeanne Baker of Apex, NC
- MACH2 Mister Tedley MXS MJS MFB TQX T2B2 ACT2 owned by Kathy Crain of Madison, AL
- MACH2 Holly Shenzi Basch MXS MJG OF T2B2 ACT1 CGC TKN owned by Jennifer Basch of Savona, NY
Congratulations to these first-time MACHs:
MACH Rue Of Silver Creek CDX BN MXB MJS BCAT CGC owned by Judy & Eberhard Biesenthal of Woodstock, IL
Rue is a 7-year-old rescue who had a rough start. “She arrived in northern Illinois when she was about 9 months old, via Angels with Tails. She was thin, full of parasites and had heartworm… but that didn’t really slow her down,” Judy said. “She really is an ‘every day should be a party’ kind of dog. She was successfully treated for all her health issues and showed a passion for climbing anything she could, including trees at the dog park!
“A great group of dog people at Northwest Obedience Club took us in and we started obedience and agility,” Judy said.
Rue not only has earned her MACH, but she also CGC and Companion Dog Excellent. “Thanks to the incredible trainers at Flint Creek Dogs, she qualified for her first AKC agility nationals in 2022 and had two double clears.”
“I cannot imagine a better first show partner than my Rue. She’s taken on every challenge asked of her and graciously covered for my mistakes along the way,” Judy said.
Rue and Judy earned their MACH on July 1, 2022, at the Gordon Setter Club of America trial in Valley View, Ohio.
MACH Craig’s Jessie MXS MJB owned by Kathryn Craig of Canon City, CO
In July 2012, Kathryn went to the Fremont County Humane Society where she met 6-month-old Jessie. “He was cowering and terrified,” Kathryn said. “He came home for an overnight trial. There, when turned loose in the yard, he instantly became a crazy, over-the-top dog. And so began a journey in learning to cope with dog reactivity and over-arousal with the power of positive reinforcement.”
When Jessie turned 2 years old, Kathryn took him to an obedience class where it was suggested that she try agility. They signed up for classes and met Mike, who would be their trainer for many years. “Jessie and I learned agility together thanks to Mike’s patience and guidance. Agility training strengthened our bond and reduced Jesse’s reactivity,” Kathryn said.
“We have competed for almost eight years with many laughable moments. Jessie does love to stop at the top the A-frame and survey his surroundings, and he especially enjoys female judges. Much to my chagrin, he has gone into a perfect heel sit position next to a judge right in the middle of a run. Although Jesse is not fast, he is consistent. Persistence and patience have paid off. On July 24, 2022, he earned his MACH at Pikes Peak Agility Club at 11 ½ years old. Not bad for a Basset Hound, Staffordshire Terrier, Australian Koolie mix (per Wisdom Panel DNA).”
Jessie enjoys learning tricks, and he and Kathryn have dabbled in scent work where he is “very thoughtful and methodical in his searches.” Jessie has lived with four Papillons and currently resides with two Border Collies, chickens, and a cat.
MACH Boreland Chisum’s True Victory MXB MJB ACT2 CGC TKI owned by Stephanie Keck of Richmond, VA
Truvy, an English Shepherd, joined the Keck family at 9 weeks of age. Stephanie had been running Drum, her 24-inch male English Shepherd(ES), in agility for about five years at that point and was looking to add another agility partner. Knowing the breed’s devotion, intelligence, and work ethic, she knew her next partner had to be an ES as well.
Truvy started her agility career in 2021 at age 2 ½ and, within a few months, was in the “big leagues,” Stephanie said. “She’s very much a free spirit, which is not such a common ES trait, but she and I have embraced that and are enjoying our journey together. Truvy’s most memorable agility moment was in Novice when her favorite trainer hid behind a solid barrier to avoid distracting her. In mid-run, Truvy suddenly sniffed her out and pushed the barrier open to find her. The judge dryly responded, ‘That dog needs to do nose work!’”
“Her love still knows no bounds, and she has become an amazing partner on and off the course.” Truvy earned her MACH on Aug. 13, 2022, at the Greater Monroe Kennel Club trial in Concord, NC. “It was so special. She double-Q’d all four days we were there; a first for us.”
MACH Southern Belle In The Windy City MXB MJB NF BCAT TKP owned by Christine Calace of Chicago, IL
Aspen was a rescue adopted as a puppy and diagnosed with a behavioral condition called global fear. She was terrified of everything, and it took a couple of years of desensitizing for her to be able to function outside of the home.
Christine signed her up for Barn Hunt as a fun activity to build her confidence, however at the start of the COVID pandemic, the classes stopped. On a whim, she took Aspen to a private agility session and surprisingly, she caught on rather quickly. They began taking regular classes, and the rest is history.
Aspen began trialing in March of 2021. She then qualified for and attended the NAC in April 2022. Aspen obtained her MACH on June 5, 2022, at Glenbard All Breed Obedience Club in Illinois.
“Aspen is a true testament that with hard work and consistent training, dogs with behavioral conditions can accomplish anything. Never underestimate the underdog,” Christine said.
MACH Rayn’s Charmin Colors Of The Wynd MXB MJB NF owned by Sarah Dushane of Monroe, MI
Flit is a 2-year-old Border Collie mix. “She knows exactly how to charm anyone into giving her attention, using her big ears and little face on all who adore her,” Sarah said. “Her favorite jackpot for agility is playing with her Frisbee and then eating mac ’n cheese; she LOVES cheese! Flit and I have worked through a lot of ring stresses, especially with weaves, and I am so proud of her progress in the ring and with our relationship.”
MACH Little Miss Maya MXB MJB owned by Marion Kasch of Hanover Park, IL
Maya started life as part of a litter rescued in Alabama. “When we adopted her, she was a skinny little thing but full of energy and love. I worried she wouldn’t like agility since she hated stairs and smooth floors but, on a course, she has no fear,” Marion said. “She is my second agility dog but is so different from the first one it was like learning everything all over again. We’ve had a great time doing it together. Maya is very friendly and loves meeting new people including judges and bar setters. It has made for some interesting and entertaining runs. Keeping up with her has been a challenge, and she always makes me laugh. Our success has been so rewarding.”
Maya earned her MACH on Sept. 24, 2022, at the Agility Ability Club of Illinois trial in Huntley, IL.
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their first MACH titles:
- MACH Raana Peekins MXB MJB owned by Kris Seiter & Chris Tucci of Punta Gorda, FL
- MACH She-Ra Princess Of Power II CD BN RN MXB MJB MXF CGC TKA owned by Pauline Baudoux of Hemlock, MI
- MACH Meadow Full Of Misty Purple FDC MXB MJS OF T2B CAA FCAT CGC TKN owned by Willow S. Martin & Randi G Martin of Williamsburg, VA
- MACH Mccall Natural Hershey Kisses RN MXB MJB T2B FCAT owned by Deborah McCall of Bellevue, NE
- MACH Surprise MXB MJS NF TKI owned by Leanne Ksiazek & Sandra Leiser of Westhampton, MA
- MACH Keating’s Zoey MXB MJB MFB CA SWN SIA SEA SBA CGC TKN owned by Patti Keating of Fullerton, CA
- MACH Yaso MXB MJB owned by Sue Vold of Leavenworth, KS
- MACH Sheimar’s Kit Kat MXB MJB MXF owned by Leslie Nelson of Tolland, CT
- MACH Broke My Resistance MXB MJS OF T2B CGC owned by Thomas & Roberta Miller of Marysville, OH
- MACH Sophie Williamson RN MXS MJB XF CGC TKN owned by Mary Jo Williamson of Lock Haven, PA
Preferred Agility Championships (PACH)
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned additional PACH titles:
- PACH14 Crosby’s Quinn MXP34 MXPB4 MJP42 MJPB5 PAX14 MFP T2BP7 owned by Krisanne Crosby of North Chesterfield, VA
- PACH7 Marcie Newport Thomas RI FDC MXP17 MXPG2 PADP MJP19 MJPG2 PJDP PAX7 MFPS TQXP T2BP8 SCN SBN THDN CGCA TKA owned by Jennifer Thomas of Sheridan, AR
- MACH5 PACH4 Olszewski’s Buffy MXG2 MJS2 MXP11 MXPC MJP10 MJPC PAX4 OF NFP owned by Sandra Olszewski of Freeland, MD
- PACH3 Brooks’ Izzy AX AXJ MXP13 MXPB2 MJP9 MJPG PAX4 CGC TKA owned by Sue Brooks of Portland, OR
- MACH9 PACH3 Zoe Mia Vogel MXS3 MJB3 MXP7 MXPS MJP7 MJPS PAX3 OF T2B2 owned by Kathleen Vogel of Bay City, MI
- PACH2 Smith’s Dream Girl Greta BN RN OA OAJ MXP10 MXPC MJP8 MJPG PAX2 OF NFP T2BP TKN owned by Cindy & John Smith of Palmetto Bay, FL
- MACH5 PACH2 Apollo Of Waterton MXS2 MJG2 MXP5 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX2 owned by Lydia Langley of Lynchburg, VA
- PACH2 Keenan-Taylor’s Joey NA NAJ MXP7 MXPG MJP7 MJPG PAX2 MFP T2BP2 THDA CGC TKN owned by Darlene Keenan-Taylor of Oakham, MA
Congratulations to these dogs on their first PACH titles:
PACH Bug OA OAJ MXP3 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX XF MFP T2BP2 owned by Carol Franks of Albuquerque, NM
Bug was picked up as a skinny stray in 2014 when he was just under a year old. At the animal shelter in the village of Corrales, NM, he stayed for weeks, and no one seemed interested in adopting him. But one day, Carol’s daughter, who was volunteering at the shelter, brought him home for a few days to give him a reprieve from shelter life. When Carol met Bug, she knew immediately that he was a special dog and would not be returning to the shelter. He joined her family in June 2014. “He was a happy, bright dog from the start,” Carol said.
Carol and Bug began agility training right away; Bug is her first agility dog. “There were many times where he zoomed around the courses and said hello to judges and bar setters,” Carol said. “It was suggested more than once that perhaps agility wasn’t his thing. But somewhere along the journey, he caught on and began enjoying the game.” He qualified for his first NAC and competed in Florida in 2022. He earned his PACH in June 2022. He recently qualified for the 2023 NAC. “I never imagined this little brown shelter dog would accomplish so much.”
“Perhaps, because he is such an atypical agility dog and has such an affectionate nature, he has many fans. Everyone seems to love Bug. Hopefully, even the judges who he still says hello to from time to time on course.”
PACH Fourwheeling Graham CD PCD BN RE MXP3 MXPB MJP6 MJPS PAX OFP SWA SCM SEE THD CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Jackie & Clint Potter of Crooks, SD
“Graham is a Saint Bernard/Cocker Spaniel mix with the heart of a lion,” Jackie said. “After losing our Basset Hound in June 2013, we looked for our next puppy, finding Graham just waiting for us at 11 weeks old. He is my first dog for competition, and we have had so many new adventures together along the way.”
Jackie and Graham began their career into the competition world with puppy class at the Sioux Empire Kennel Club in Sioux Falls, SD. One of the instructors saw a potential therapy dog in Graham and asked if she would think about therapy dog classes. After they began to volunteer in hospitals, they took more obedience classes, which quickly led to agility and scent work. Their first agility trial was in spring 2017 at the Fargo Moorhead Kennel Club. They got their PACH at a home trial in August 2022 surrounded by friends cheering them on, “with not a dry eye in the house.”
“I found there to be two awesome parts of trialing that are not even the goal of competition. The one is meeting nice people who have become great friends, and the best part is the smile on Graham’s face when we are done with a run.”
Now 9 years old, Graham is retired from agility. “But he will continue to enjoy the activities that he loves including kayaking, hiking, and camping. On to more adventures for us!”
PACH Lil’Cherokee Dreamcatcher AX AXJ MXP6 MXPS MJP4 MJPB PAX NF XFP T2BP CAX FCAT CGCA owned by Christy Wrede of Eatontown, NJ
Lil’Cherokee Dreamcatcher, affectionately known as Emma, was found abandoned in a vacant apartment in 2010 and transferred to Luv Furever Animal Rescue in New Jersey, when Christy saw her photo and agreed to foster her until she found her forever home. Christy has always been very involved in animal rescue and has fostered and found homes for many dogs before this spunky brindle and white puppy came into her life. “Emma quickly stole my heart and made it clear that she had already found her forever home. She became my first ‘foster fail,’” Christy said.
From an early age, it was apparent to Christy that Emma needed a lot of mental and physical exercise. Emma’s love of treats and her eager-to-please nature made her a perfect new training partner. “Emma is a very intelligent, versatile athlete and competes in agility, rally, CAT, and Fast CAT, Christy said. A highlight of Emma’s agility career was competing in the finals at the 2018 Westminster Masters Agility Championship. She earned her PACH on Aug. 27, 2022, at the Lower Bucks Dog Training Club Agility Trial in Tinton Falls, NJ.
Emma, now 12 years old, is semi-retired from agility, but still enjoys training and competing in AKC Rally and Fast CAT. “Her zest for life is still strong, and she enjoys every minute of every day. She is a fantastic big sister to Pearl and Ruby, two other rescue dogs that I fostered and made part of the family. Emma has truly been a ‘dream dog,’” Christy said.
PACH Mama Bird Dog’s Little Bruiser MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MFP T2BP owned by Brian Cohen of Grayslake, IL
Bruiser was born March 2016 in southern Illinois, a litter of one in the back of an animal control truck on the way to a shelter. “Mama was a fend-for-herself, scruffy terrier who had been picked up as a stray. She was quickly rerouted, with her puppy, to a Save-A-Pet foster home in northern Illinois the following day,” Brian said.
“Baby Bruiser spent his days wedged between my leg and the cozy leather armrest of my office chair, while Mama slept at my feet when she wasn’t dutifully caring for her baby. Bruiser earned his name by being a little spitfire with fierce, playful puppy snarl-growls while wrestling with my fingers,” Brian said. “Mama Bird Dog earned her name by nabbing extra snacks in the backyard at the expense of the local wildlife.
“We became best buds, and we delighted in playing together. After a couple months, there was no way I could let him go, so he was adopted as a permanent family member. Together, we learned how to perform agility and had a lot of fun with it. Bruiser was a natural talent,” Brian said, “and taught me as much as I taught him.”
Bruiser earned champion agility titles through other venues before Brian found the Canine Partners program, allowing him to compete in AKC events. Because of COVID, it wasn’t until 2022 that Bruiser entered the Masters level in AKC. “If Bruiser is one thing in agility, and all his endeavors, it’s that he’s assiduous, whether hunting shrews or extracting treats from a snuffle mat or an interactive toy,” said Brian. They worked hard and Bruiser earned his PACH in just six months. He is now working on his TQX title.
A DNA test indicated Bruiser is a purebred Yorkie, but Brian has always thought there was some Jack Russell mixed in. “Wherever we go, people comment on how truly adorable Bruiser is, and I never disagree,” he said.
Congratulations also to these All American Dogs on earning their PACH:
- MACH3 PACH Mignonne MXC PAD MJB2 PJD MXPB MJPB PAX XF T2B TKA owned by Robin Foret of Frisco, TX
- PACH Nevada Cricket MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX MFPS TQXP T2BP3 owned by Flora Steffan of Silverlake, OR
- PACH Bella Tepen OA NAJ MXP4 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX XFP T2BP CGC TKN owned by Tanya Tepen of Belleville, IL
- PACH Dagaz Keely RN MXP3 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX MFP T2BP SWNE SWE SCEE SEEE SIAE CGC TKA owned by Cheryl & David Keely of Louisville, KY
- PACH Bruno Bantz-Leguard MXP6 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX MFP T2BP ACT2 CGCA owned by Viva Bantz-LeGuard of Fairbanks, AK
CAX
Congratulations to this dog for earning her first CAX title:
Blooming Wild Iris RA CAX DCAT ACT1 CGCA TKA ATT owned by Cameron Mahan of Cary, NC
Iris was 4 months old when she was adopted in 2017 by Cameron. Soon after, they took a few obedience classes, which eventually led to trying everything dog sports had to offer.
“Iris is always willing to try anything she’s asked at least once (especially if she gets a treat for it) but her favorite sports are CAT and Fast CAT,” Cameron said. She earned her CAX on Oct. 30, 2022,at the Belgian Sheepdog Club of America trials held in Jackson Springs, NC.
Congratulations also to these dogs for earning their first CAX title:
- No Sit Sherlock CAX BCAT CGC TKI owned by Carol Freeman of Saint Charles, IA
- On Target’s Full Of It CAX FCAT2 owned by Ellen M Telleen of Fairfield, IA
- Aingeal Dreamzzz Caoimhe CAX DCAT owned by Michele Geary of West Valley, UT
Congratulations to these dogs on adding more CAX titles to their names:
- DMT’s Christmas In Dixie FDC CAX5 FCAT26 CGC TKP owned by Danny Terry of Eclectic, AL
- Defino’s Jinger CAX2 FCAT5 CGCA TKP owned by Margie Defino of Waynesboro, PA
- Heart Of Gold CAX4 FCAT SWN CGC TKN owned by Katie Lane of Reston, VA
Rally
Congratulations to these dogs on their first RACH titles:
RACH Kai Updike RM2 RAE2 CGC owned by Chelsea & Chris Updike of Verona, WI
Kai received her RACH on July 10, 2022, at the Car-Dun-Al Obedience club in Illinois hosted by Dekalb Kennel Club.
“We originally started rally to build her confidence around new dogs and people,” Chelsea said. “We knew she loved the sport and the concept of learning new things and thought rally would be a great introduction into dog sports. Through the process, her confidence has skyrocketed. She now has the confidence to meet new people and spend time around new dogs.”
Whirley Whirlwind Wind Of Dorian VCD2 UD BN GO VER RM2 RAE2 AX MXJ XF RATS TKI owned by Sue Kotlarek of Romulus, MI
Sue got Whirley in September 2019. She had been rescued from Hurricane Dorian in Florida, where she was in a shelter at the time of the storm.
“They had to empty the shelters in case the hurricane hit and also, if the hurricane did not hit, there would be room for misplaced dogs. Michigan accepted 30 dogs. The Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit took in six of these and that is where we met Whirley,” Sue said. “She came with the name of Whirlwind, and it fits her to a ‘T’! She is a natural at everything we do.”
At the Toledo Kennel Club Rally trial on Nov 20, 2022, Whirley earned her RACH. She has a 100% Q rate in Rally. Her average score in Masters was a 94, her Excellent average score was a 97, and her Advanced average score was a 95.
Congratulations also to these dogs for earning the RACH title:
- RACH Snowflake Smith II CDX BN RM2 RAE2 CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Angela Smith of North Fort Myers, FL
- RACH TAYLOR LEUNG UD RM3 RAE3 SCN TKN owned by Janet M Leung of Abington, PA
- RACH Double R Henri CD BN RM3 RAE3 CGC TKN owned by Raymond Reising of Evansville, IN
- RACH Jazzi Eaton CD RM4 RAE2 CGC TKN owned by Suzanne Eaton of LaFayette, NY
Obedience
Congratulations to these dogs for earning the Utility Dog (UD) title:
RACH Taylor Leung UD RM3 RAE3 SCN TKN owned by Janet M. Leung of Abington, PA
Taylor was adopted four years ago by Janet, after having been returned twice to the local rescue organization. Janet is his very “happy and proud owner.”
“He was amazing the weekend of Aug. 5-7 at the Bayshore Companion Dog Club in Tinton Falls N.J. He qualified for his Utility A title on Aug. 5 with a score of 191.5 and a bonus leg on Aug. 6, with a score of 195.5.
Just two days later, on Aug. 7, 2022, the little black dog earned his RACH with a Master score of 99. “What a great weekend!,” Janet said.
RACH Daisy Duke UD PCD BN RM3 RAE4 NJP OFP ACT2 CGCA TKP owned by Colleen Swierkocki of Wayne, NJ
Daisy earned her Utility Dog title on Aug. 28, 2022, at the Dog Agility Club of Long Island obedience trial.
Colleen and Daisy trained with instructor Linda Brennan to learn and proof the Utility exercises. Daisy is Colleen’s Novice A dog, so it was a learning experience for both. Daisy’s favorite exercise was the go-out in directed jumping. “She always runs with great enthusiasm!” Colleen said.
The team has competed several times at the AKC Rally National Championships. They have also earned titles in agility and trick dog.
Colleen said she is thrilled with all that she and Daisy have accomplished and the special bond they share. “Earning the Utility Dog title is the cherry on top of our career. I could not have asked for more from my wonderful dog.”
Congratulations also to these dogs on their UD Titles:
- Bobbi Jo UD RM TKP owned by Marlene Unke of Dousman, WI
- Morro Bay’s Little Bear Inception UD BN RA CGC owned by Jenna Finch of Lincoln NE
- MACH Hurst’s Rocky UD PCD BN RE MXG MJS AXP OJP XF CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Sarah Hurst of Gallatin, TN
Congratulations to this dog on her UDX:
- Cartim’s Little Orphan Annie UDX OM1 BN owned by Caryn Hasselbring of Orlando, FL
UDX2
Congratulations to these dogs for adding second UDX titles to their names:
- Psp’s Phantom Gabi Daydream Believer UDX2 PCD OM5 BN owned by Brenda K. Shaw of Eden Prairie, MN
- Trumpet’s Call To Victory UDX2 BN RE AX AXJ ACT2 CGC TKA owned by Maria & Ralph Orlando and Victory Hulett of Port Orange, FL
Scent Work
Congratulations to these dogs on earning their Scent Work Master (SWM) titles:
Czar Nickolas “Niko” Fox Lawson FDC FCAT5 SWME SHDN CGCA CGCU TKI owned by Raena A. Latina of Indianapolis, IN
When Raena’s husband said, “Look at this puppy at the Brown County Humane Society,” she thought he meant a shelter about 90 minutes away in Bloomington, IN. But it was actually a facility of the same name in Georgetown, Ohio – southeast of Cincinnati and more than double the distance. “But we fell in love!”
The husky mix was 10 weeks old when he arrived at his new home in Indianapolis, IN, and he turned 10 years old on Jan. 1, 2023. Starting with AKC Star Puppy, he and Raena dabbled in some events, began Fast CAT in 2018, and Niko was named an AKC Achiever Dog in 2018. Scent Work classes began in fall 2020. “While Niko loves to chase bunnies, finding hides quickly became his favorite thing,” Raena said.
Niko’s first AKC Scent Work trial was at the Muncie Obedience Training Club in March 2021, and they celebrated earning his overall Scent Work Master title with the same club on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2022.
Niko earned his overall SW Master Elite on Dec. 4, 2022, at the Agility Club of Evansville, IN, making 34 AKC Scent Work titles and 48 AKC titles overall. “He’s got a couple of Detective Qs (and a few more NQs!) and is enjoying the AKC Fit Dog program. We participated in our second AKC Turkey Trot in November,” Raena said.
“He absolutely loves scent work. I’ve loved learning this sport with him. It is great to watch him work and see him so happy. And even when we NQ (which is generally always my fault!), at the end of the day, I get to go home with the best dog!”
Congratulations also to this dog on earning his SWM:
- Lil Squirt Just Bein’ Me SWM SCME SEEE owned by Carol Ann Michalski of Big Bend, WI
Scent Work Detective
Congratulations to this dog for earning the SWD title:
- Casey Sox OAP OJP SWD SWM SHDM TKA owned by Diane Lynn Sox of La Canada, CA
Tracking
Congratulations to these dogs on their TD titles:
- King Kong Trickey TD SIN SEN owned by Kayla Trickey of Fairbanks, AK
- Toko Of No Way TD owned by Dorte Dissing & Bjarke Benedsen of Fairbanks, AK
Trick Dog – Trick Dog Elite Performer (TKE)
Testing of this truly elite trick dog level requires the dog to perform 10 tricks with at least five props and there must be a story. Congratulations to these All American Dogs who have earned the TKE:
Restless Dreams Limit Break RN SIN CGC TKE VHMA owned by Virginia & Daniel Villareal of Houston, TX
Three-year-old Vincent was part of a rescue involving the seizure of dozens of dogs and puppies from a property located in a neighboring town. Virginia knew that training would be an excellent way to build Vincent’s confidence and help him navigate the world around him.
He took to training easily. Virginia learned that Vincent is a mix of breeds that are known for working or being very active. “He loves learning and having a job to do and he is willing to try just about anything with great enthusiasm. Trick training is great because a team is only limited by the dog’s physical capability, willingness to work at it, and the trainer’s imagination,” Virginia said. Deciding on an activity for Vincent is always based on what Virginia thinks that he would enjoy, and trick training offers a bit of everything. Virginia credits trick training as the reason that Vincent is able to adapt to different activities quickly as it allows a way for them to communicate effectively.
Vincent earned his Elite Performer title on Jun 27, 2022. Virginia did not originally set out to reach the level of Trick Dog Elite Performer, but each time a trick title was earned, she read the requirements of the next one and was confident that with just a bit more training it could be completed. “I am proud of what Vincent has been able to accomplish so far. He is still young, and I know that this is just the beginning,” she said.
Jeeter Of Sypes Canyon CGCA CGCU TKE owned by Ernest Boswell of Bozeman, MT
Jeeter is a 2-year-old McNab Collie mix, adopted in March 2021 from a ranch near Missoula, MT. All his brothers and sisters are cattle herding dogs working in Montana and Idaho.
Ernest wanted a high drive, intelligent dog for search and rescue and a therapy dog. Jeeter exceeded his expectations. “At first, all Jeeter knew was ranch life,” Ernest said. “He barked at other people and dogs. Taking him on walks was a nightmare. But after a week of going to hardware stores and dog parks, Jeeter became very social and now loves all manner of dog and beast. People are constantly saying how well behaved he is and how they wish their dogs were more like him.”
The reason for obtaining the TKE was so Jeeter could become a better therapy dog. He knows about 30 different commands and is good at stringing them together. He and Ernest are always working to expand his vocabulary. In the future, they would like to visit drug rehabilitation centers and nursing homes.
“Besides that,” Ernest said, “Jeeter’s real passion is search and rescue. He has been training with a K9 SAR team to become a cadaver and area search dog. As soon as he sees his vest, he starts whining and prancing around. Once he wears that vest, he becomes laser focused, tail high up in the air and moving with purpose. For him, there is nothing better than tracking down a lost individual. Other members of the search and rescue team say Jeeter is very close to being certified.”
Sheller’s Piper RE NA OAJ DCAT ACT2 ACT1J PSD CGC TKE VHMA VSWE owned by Ruth Sheller of Mount Airy, MD
Four-year-old Piper was rescued by Unconditional Love Pet Rescue in Arkansas and adopted by Ruth at approximately 8 months old. Piper is the “life and soul of the party and loves to charm people,” Ruth said. She earned her TKE title on July 16, 2022, with a ‘Day at the Fair’ themed skit, performed at home in their tree-shaded yard.
Piper turns her paw to many things – she has titled in rally, agility, and FastCAT. She loves to go hiking and swimming with her friends. “But she really loves tricks. She likes to make people laugh and is capable of being very creative on her own and adding her own flair,” Ruth said. “Athletic tricks are her favorites – drop and roll, faint, balancing on a ball, and jumping through hoops all rate high on her list.”
Trick training has become a great tool for keeping Piper occupied and using her brain, particularly in the winter when the weather is bad. When she’s not on the go, Piper can be found curled up snoozing in a sunbeam, or in a hammock with her humans.
Luna Diermeier THDN CGC TKE owned by Kristen Diermeier of Seymour, WI
Luna is 6 years old and was adopted by Kristen at approximately 11 weeks old. “She is active, loving, and eager to learn,” Kristen said. “When she was young, Luna was afraid of agility equipment and was way too energetic to be a therapy dog, so we were looking for something to do as a team, and we found tricks. We both fell in love. The process of building skills, combining skills, and being creative with props was a great challenge for both of us. I never thought we would have the skills necessary to earn our Elite Performer Title, but each year we kept working on new and more complex tricks. We earned our TKE on July 20, 2022, at the Winnegamie Dog Club.”
Luna loves training and learning new tricks; it’s a great way to keep busy during the cold Wisconsin winters when we can’t spend as much time outside. Our performance revolves around how we both have some anxiety and how we work together as a team to get through each day,” Kristen said.
Luna is now a certified therapy dog and goes to visit kids at the library and school a few times each week. She loves to show off her “trick of the day” and see all of the smiles. “I am so grateful for Luna and all of the joy she has brought into my life.”
Jazz Brie Hauser TKE owned by Judith & David Hauser of Ankeny, IA
Ten-year-old Jazz Brie earned her AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer Title at Canine Craze Performance Center in Urbandale, IA, on July 8, 2022. Jazz’s training at Canine Craze started at 11 weeks and has included Train and Play (dog day care with a structured curriculum); obedience, Canine Good Citizen, and therapy dog preparation classes.
She has just completed her ninth year with Therapy Dog International visiting nursing homes and participating in stress relief events. In addition, Jazz has performed trick dog shows at nursing homes, children’s summer camps, a daycare center, a youth emergency shelter, and a bookstore. Our favorite moment from a trick dog show happened at the day care center where a little 3-year-old girl exclaimed after each of Jazz’s tricks, “It’s magic!”
Bean Bean The Wrecking Machine CGC TKE owned by Heather Carrier of Palm Harbor, FL
Bean is a 10-pound Chihuahua who was born in April 2018. “She has a fun-loving personality and a strong will to perform all kinds of tricks, especially when treats are involved. Her crooked smile will warm your heart,” Heather said.
On her very first night, at 4 months of age, she proved that she would be a force to be reckoned with when she ‘sat pretty’ with no command at all. “We knew we needed to get her into training,” Heather said, “but where to go? Then we found the Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club. First, she passed basic obedience with flying colors. The agility classes were full, so we joined trick class. It didn’t take long to figure out what Bean was destined for: Tricks, tricks, and more tricks!”
In addition to Bean’s many trick and stunt dog titles, she has earned her CGC and is a certified therapy dog. She loves to perform for children at schools, which has earned her a lot of fan mail. She even has her own children’s book out on Amazon, “Bean ‘n Me,” and she can be found on YouTube under “Bean Bean the Wrecking Machine.”
Her TKE performance took place at the Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club in Clearwater, FL, on July 24, 2022.
They Call Me Timmy TKE owned by Kori Golberg of Watertown, WI
Murphy is a 5-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix who Kori got in 2017 while living in Fargo, ND. He was Kori’s first dog and he immediately proved to be biddable with a strong desire to learn. To provide him with proper mental stimulation, Kori began teaching him tricks after he grasped basic obedience so quickly. Murphy quickly became a favorite among Kori’s friends and family, and they would always ask to see what new tricks he had learned since the last time they saw him.
It wasn’t until March 2021 that Kori found the AKC Trick Dog program and knew Murphy would excel in it.
“We were still staying at home because of the pandemic, so Murphy and I were going stir crazy. I was looking for ways to keep us entertained, then found the Trick Dog program was taking video submissions, so Murphy and I got to work.”
Murphy achieved his Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced titles in three consecutive days. A few weeks later, he earned his Performer Title. Then they took a break of more than a year as Kori and her husband were remodeling their home. Once all the house projects were finished, Kori wrote the script for their last title and in July 2022, Murphy finally earned his Elite Performer Trick Dog title.
“I’m so inspired by Murphy’s love and desire to work and I owe it to him to find something to stimulate him physically and mentally,” Kori said.
Now that Murphy has earned the highest title for the Trick Dog program, he and Kori have started training in scent work. When they aren’t training, Murphy enjoys playing fetch, wading in his pool, going for hikes, tagging along in the kayak, and riding in the UTV.
Rico Heart Of Gold CGCA CGCU TKE and Zara Woo THDN CGCA CGCU TKE owned by Stephanie & Nicholas Jenson of Coon Rapids, MN
Rico is a rescue dog adopted by the Jensons from Midwest Animal Rescue Services (MARS) at 4 months old. “From the start it was evident Rico wanted to do anything and everything with his humans,” Stephanie said. She and Nicholas started training tricks to break up formal obedience training with Rico and to keep training light, fun and fresh. “We began trick training with him before even knowing AKC had a title program for it!”
After coming through the pandemic, the Jensons decided they would welcome another dog into their lives. So, in March 2021, 3-months-old Zara was adopted from MARS. It didn’t take long for Stephanie and Nick to learn a key fact about baby Zara: “She. Loves. Food!” Stephanie said. With a motivator in hand (literally) Stephanie and Nick began obedience and trick training with Zara.
Zara and Rico both mastered tricks like shake and rollover in less than one or two sessions. The best part about trick training according to Stephanie is that “it’s like art, you can mold and shape a behavior any way you want and turn it into something unique.” One such trick was teaching the moonwalk. Stephanie said, “this trick started out just as a regular ‘bow’ and then I was wondering what I could add to it and make it extra fun. So, I started asking Rico and Zara to back up a step or two while holding the bow.”
“Rico and Zara both earned their Elite Performer Trick Dog Titles in August 2022 after two stellar, in-person performances with AKC Evaluator Tyra Szutkowski and an audience of several self-proclaimed ‘dog training nerds,’” Stephanie said. “Have fun with your dog! Training should be about the time you spend with your dog and having fun together.”
Yuba TKE owned by Janee Nekuda of Aumsville, OR
Retired art teacher Janee Nekuda has always loved dogs, and she and her husband, Randy, enjoy hiking the Oregon mountain trails with their canine companions.
She has competed in agility with three Rat Terriers. When the AKC Trick Dog program started, she took a class and completed her TKE with her 3-year-old Rat Terrier, Lizzy, and then entered her in the first virtual national trick dog contest in 2019. It was lots of fun for the dog and the handler, and they were featured as one of the outstanding teams.
In 2021, Janee lost two of her dogs to old age and cancer. “With only one dog, the house seemed empty. I considered waiting a year for a pup from Lizzy’s breeder but decided to look for a dog who needed a good home now,” she said.
They adopted a six-month-old mixed breed from the Jack Russell Rescue of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. “The pup looked like a Rat Terrier,” Janee said, “but her DNA test later revealed several other breeds, and no Rat Terrier!”
Yuba, named for the area in northern California where she was found, soon demonstrated that she was smart and eager to learn. Janee took a couple of classes at the Oregon Humane Society. Then she continued on her own with Yuba’s trick training. Yuba finished her TKE title on Sept. 3, 2022, less than a year after she was adopted. Like Lizzy, she loves learning new things, and begs to head for the training room or the agility arena. “I have fun coming up with new ideas and new props and then teaching Yuba what to do with them,” Janee said.
Congratulations also to these dogs for earning the TKE:
- Chica Kelenc RA BCAT NSD CGCA CGCU TKE owned by Adrienne & Ivan Kelenc of Rockford, IL
- King Mowgli Jack Of Brentwood CGCA CGCU TKE VHMA owned by Jill Beane of Parkersburg, WV
- Queen Quinley Of Brentwood CGCA TKE VHMA owned by Jill Beane of Parkersburg, WV