Virtual and In-Person AKC Trick Dog Title Evaluations

Teaching tricks is not only a fun way to bond with your dog, but a fabulous canine enrichment activity that provides mental stimulation, helps promote confidence, adaptability as well as the ability to problem-solve and deal with stress.  

Tricks Dogs [minimum age of four months] can also earn the following titles recognized by the American Kennel Club: 

  • AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN) – Your dog performs 10 skills from the Novice list. Only 5 Novice level tricks are required if your dog already has a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or title on record at AKC.  See the list of tricks here.
  • AKC Intermediate Trick Dog (TKI) – Your dog must have the Novice title, plus perform 10 Intermediate tricks. See the list of tricks here.
  • AKC Advanced Trick Dog (TKA) – Your dog must have the Intermediate title, plus perform 10 tricks from the Advanced list. See the list of tricks here.
  • AKC Trick Dog Performer (TKP) – In this title, handlers perform a short routine with at least 10 tricks with at least 3 tricks using props. See the requirements here.
  • AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer (TKE) – In the highest level of Trick Dog, the Elite Performers perform a routine that has a story/script. At least 5 props are used. See the requirements here.

Trick Dog Evaluations can be completed in person or virtually via video submission. Here’s how:

  1. Print the Tricks Checklist/VVF for the applicable level(s)
  2. Identify the tricks you will be performing.
  3. Record a video of your dog performing the tricks and upload it to YouTube or Vimeo. Note: A lure may only be used for Novice level tricks unless otherwise stated on the tricks checklists. You may use toy and/or food reward for all levels.
  4. Submit payment of $11 per AKC Tricks Dog (Video) Evaluation via PayPal using the form below. [Cash and checks accepted for in-person evaluations]
  5. Email your video link(s) and Tricks Checklist(s) to achieveagility@gmail.com for review.
    • A separate video should be submitted for each level you wish to have evaluated. 
    • Don’t have YouTube or Vimeo to share your videos? No worries, reach out and we will figure out another way.
  6. Once your video has been reviewed and approved, we will send you a signed copy of the Tricks Checklist/Video Verification Form 
  7. Lastly, to apply for the title, you will send the following to AKC:
    • a copy of the completed Tricks Checklist/Video Verification Form received from the CGC Evaluator, the Trick Dog Title Application, Trick Dog Title Application fee
Click below to request a virtal or an in-person Trick dog evaluation.