AKC APPROVES VIRTUAL TRICK EVALUATIONS

Good news! AKC is now allowing trick evaluators to evaluate your dogs’ tricks online. The perfect activity to do with your dog during this time of social distancing.

At the Novice level, your dog needs 5 tricks if he has a CGC or 10 tricks if he doesn’t have a CGC. Sorry, we cannot evaluate any CGC testing online. CGC, CGCA, and CGCU tests your dog’s reaction to people, crowds, and other distractions, which we cannot do during this time of social distancing.

Train your dog the tricks listed on the checklist for the level you are applying for. There are lists you can download for Novice, Intermediate, Advance, and Performer. Video your dog performing the tricks. It’s okay if you edit the dead time between each trick. Register for a trick evaluation on the registration page of Baebea’s Dog Training at baebeasdogtraining.com. Because of the size of the videos, most people find it easier to upload the video to a YouTube account and then send the link.

In the comments section on the registration page, please list the tricks your dog is performing for the appropriate level. Most of the time it is obvious. But, occasionally, it has not been. If your dog’s performance doesn’t fit the AKC’s intent of the trick, I can either help you better train the trick or I can help you substitute a trick.

Also, in the comments section, please list your name as it appears on your dog’s AKC registration form, your dog’s registration number and registered name, and your dog’s breed.

Get creative with the props. AKC does not expect everyone to purchase a dogwalk for the balance beam trick, or a pause table for the get on trick. A small dog can walk across a 2 x 4 or curb for the “balance beam.” A large dog can walk across a larger board, retaining wall, or narrow bench for the “balance beam.” A small dog can “get on” a concrete block, upturned planter, or storage box. A large dog can “get on” an ottoman, table, or picnic bench. A small dog can “jump” a broom resting on soup cans. A larger dog can “jump” that same broom resting on something taller. “Tunnel” can be a kid’s play tunnel, a long narrow delivery box, or something you’ve been able to create with concrete blocks, plywood, or anything else you have access to. “Paws up” can be a step, curb, concrete block, gardening hardscape, ottoman, etc.

I’m offering an introductory price during this time of forced social distancing. Details of pricing are available on the registration page.

Good luck, stay safe, and have fun! And please don’t hesitate to contact me if you and your dog get stuck on a trick and need a little help to get over the hump.