Trick Dog

Trick Dog Competition is a Dogs Australia (ANKC Ltd) discipline which became an official event in January 2020. Developed by members of Dances With Dogs discipline, the intention of Trick Dogs is to encourage handlers to teach their dogs skills and to display behaviours in a positive environment.

As many of the tricks are simply an extension of basic obedience training, teaching your dog foundation Tricks can parallel your dog's training.  Teaching your dog tricks must be fun. You can teach your dog many tricks, but your dog must truly be enjoying itself.  Sessions should be short and fun for both dog and handler.

How do I start?

The best way to start is to join in a workshop, which is conducted to give instruction and feedback. Workshops are an excellent introduction because they teach every handler there that no matter what your level of expertise and regardless of the stage of your dog, these tricks can be taught in a simple and easy manner. At the end of each workshop handlers were leaving with a range of new skills after an incredibly relaxed time with their dogs, supported by an encouraging group of skilled instructors.

About Competitions

Trick Dog Competition commences at the Starter Class. The handler selects six tricks which the dog enjoys doing from a list of 15 and following training the handler and dog team compete to gain their Trick Dog Title Starter (TK.S.). 

Novice Class is the next stage and as the dog and handler gain more experience the Tricks are more difficult and the number of Tricks increases to eight.

Intermediate Class requires eight Tricks for competition and each Trick is more difficult in execution and duration.

In the Advanced Class the dog is required to perform a selection of 10 Advanced Tricks from a list of 25 Trick descriptions.

ANKC Rules

The ANKC Trick Dog Rules are designed in such a way that handlers and dogs of all abilities are able to compete and enjoy themselves.

Trick Dog Competitions became ANKC Titled events in January 2020. Click here to read or download the rules. 

For Affiliates

Dogs Victoria Dances with Dogs & Trick Dog Committee 

Guidelines for a contracted judge competing at Trick Dog Tests