How to Earn AKC Trick Dog Titles
Trick Dog is the friendliest way into AKC titles: any dog, any age, at home or in class. Each title is a checklist of 10 tricks, signed off by an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator.
Track Your Progress
Track Your ProgressFree, in the Dog Sports Title Tracker. Nothing to sign up for.
What the TKN takes
- Each title: 10 tricks from that level's list
- Novice: a Canine Good Citizen on record counts as 5 of the 10
- Each level needs the titles before it; tricks cannot repeat earlier levels
- Elite Performer: a short story or routine, with at least 5 Performer-level tricks and 5 with props
Step by step
- Pick 10 tricks from the Novice list - sit, down, spin, shake and more.
- Show them to an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator, in person or by video.
- Send the signed checklist with the Trick Dog title application.
- Move up through Intermediate, Advanced, Performer and Elite Performer.
The titles around it
TKN - Novice Trick Dog (this page)
Needs 1 pass.
TKI - Intermediate Trick Dog
Needs 1 pass.
TKA - Advanced Trick Dog
Needs 1 pass.
TKP - Trick Dog Performer
Needs 1 pass.
TKE - Trick Dog Elite Performer
Needs 1 pass.
Requirements from the current AKC regulations. AKC records a title once it processes the results; check your dog's AKC record. Every AKC title, A to Z.
Common questions
Can I do Trick Dog by video?
Yes. The checklists have a box for testing by video, and AKC points to a virtual evaluation service with approved CGC Evaluators.
Does my dog need a CGC first?
No, but a CGC already on record counts as 5 of the 10 Novice tricks.
Can mixed breeds earn Trick Dog titles?
Yes. Any dog with an AKC registration, PAL or Canine Partners number can earn them.