There you are, with your cute little puppy, and you've noticed that everything you try to teach her she learns very quickly. Plus, she seems so proud of herself for doing what
you ask of her. Wouldn't it be great for her (and you, too) to have a way to show off what she's learned? Or you've noticed that whenever your dog goes outside, his nose is
to the ground and he's obviously following the trail left behind by another animal crossing your yard. So maybe he's not going to get a job at Scotland Yard but there must be something for him to do! THERE IS!!!

Under the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club, local dog
clubs sponsor Obedience and Tracking Trials that allow dogs to demonstrate their natural skill as well as their ability to work as part of an animal-human team. In these events, dogs and handlers compete against a standard of perfection, rather than against each other...and, theoretically, every dog entered can be a winner!

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE

Any purebred dog over the age of 6 months and registered with the AKC can be entered in Obedience or Tracking events. (Of course, you and he should be trained in order to know what to do!) This includes spayed females and neutered males. Also dogs that may not be "show quality" due to things that would disqualify them according to their breed's standard (such as size, incorrect color, improper bite, etc.) can be part of the working world.

Additionally, dogs with an Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP) number --- that is, breeds in the Miscellaneous Class or purebred dogs without registered parents who nevertheless meet certain criteria --- can participate in these events and earn titles. (For more information on ILP numbers, contact AKC Customer Service or email info@akc.org)

Anyone can handle their dog in these events. This includes people of any age as well as individuals with disabilities.

CONTINUED

Visit AKC's extensive website at: http://www.akc.org