What’s a Stunt Dog Trial?
Basically, a “stunt” is a trick that’s fun to watch. A Stunt Dog Trial is a tricks competition under trial conditions. Stunt Dog Trials incorporate elements of live animal performances. You’re not only judged on your training and handling skills, you’re also judged on showmanship. You need tricks that are “fun to watch,” like Sit Pretty or Cover Your Eyes.
Stunt Dog Trials are best held before a live audience. Learn more here.
Virtual Trials
Since the pandemic, many Stunt Dog Trials are held virtually. Find out everything you need to know here. I’m an Official Stunt Dog Judge and can evaluate your performance. Purchase your virtual ring trial ticket here and choose Lisa Lanser Rose as your Stunt Dog Judge.
What Exactly Constitutes a Trick?
Tricks include old favorites such as shake, roll over, and get me a beer. However, all of the behaviors you know from conformation, obedience, and agility are also tricks, such as stacking, heeling with an automatic sit, retrieving over a blind jump, and weave poles.
Tricks also include behaviors from Scent Work, Dock Diving, Tracking, Mushing, Fly Ball, Disc Dog, and even paddle-boarding. Odds are, if you’ve been training your dog, you’ve got a Trick Dog title in you.
Can Anyone Compete in a Stunt Dog Ring Trial?
Not exactly. In order to compete in a Stunt Dog Trial, you and your dog must already have the corresponding Trick Dog Titles from Do More With Your Dog (DMWYD):
AKC Trick Dog DMWYD Trick Dog Stunt Dog
Novice (TKN) Novice (NTD) Novice (NSD)
Intermediate (TKI) Intermediate (ITD) Open (OSD)
Advanced (TKA) Advanced (ATD) Proven (PSD)
Performer (TKP) Expert (ETD) Professional (SDPro)
Elite Performer Champion (CHTD) Champion (SDCH)
Grand Champion (SDGRCH)*
*Awarded to those who’ve earned six Stunt Dog Champion Titles under three different judges.
What’s the Deal Between AKC and DMWYD?
The AKC recognizes DMWYD Trick Dog Titles, but DMWYD doesn’t recognize AKC titles. In partnership with DMWYD, the AKC officially recognizes Stunt Dog titles.
Most of us get our DMWYD titles, and then, if we want the title applied to our dog’s name, we send a copy of the DMWYD certificate to AKC. We enjoy the slightly higher challenge of a DMWYD title as well as the increased variety of tricks to choose from at each level. Plus, the certificate is nicer than the AKC’s. The cost is about the same.
How Can I Clean Up My Stunt Dog Act?
You can go to the DMWYD website, order the rule book, watch the videos, make or buy your own equipment, and practice by yourself or with friends.
You can register for lessons, sign up for our newsletter, and/or arrange Mick, Maisie, and me do a workshop for your dog training community by contacting us here.
