AKC FIT DOG
What is the AKC FIT DOG program?
The American Kennel Club is committed to improving and maintaining the fitness and health of all dogs and their owners.
AKC FIT DOG titles were designed to provide a structured, individualized fitness plan that you and your dog can do together.
There are 3 levels of AKC fitness titles—Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each title requires a specific number of activity points to be completed, which varies based on title level.
What is a FIT DOG Class?
Taking a FIT DOG class is just one of the ways a dog owner can earn points towards AKC's new FIT DOG titles.
The class uses positive reinforcement techniques including luring, capturing, and shaping. A focus will be on using proper form to ensure we are working the muscles we intend to.
Both the owner and the dog will acquire new skills and the dog will learn to use muscles they haven't and move in new ways!
We will be keeping training fun, short, and safe!
Benefits of a FIT DOG Class
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Provides mental and physical stimulation (great for behavior wellness)
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Reduces the risk of injury (great for canine athletes)
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Increases strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health
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Reduces boredom
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Increases confidence
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Helps eliminate problem behaviors
Classes Options
On Demand (Recorded Video On Your Own Schedule)
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Complete on your own schedule (take up to 12 weeks)
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Total of 10 items to learn and perform for assessment
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Written course reference materials and pre-recorded videos
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Submit videos of your dog for trainer feedback
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Assessment of skills learned done via video (pre-recorded or live)
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Certification of completion upon successfully demonstrating skills learned
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Along with fun runs or group walks (which can also be done virtually) can earn your AKC FIT DOG titles (additional fee to AKC to have title added to dogs AKC title record)
Live (Meets a Set Day of the Week and Time of the Day)
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Meets live via Zoom for up to one hour a week for 6 weeks
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Limited to 8 dogs per class
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Access to instructor feedback live
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Train and learn along with others
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Access to pre-recorded videos for review on-demand (can be used to make up missed live classes)
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Written course reference materials
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Access to additional trainer feedback outside of live class as needed
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Items to practice are assigned weekly
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Assessment of skills learned done live at the last zoom session or can be done by pre-recorded video
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Certification of completion upon successfully demonstrating skills learned
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Along with fun runs or group walks (which can also be done virtually) can earn you AKC's Fit Dog title (additional fee to AKC to have title added to dogs AKC title record)
Email sparklydogpaws@gmail.com to express interest in live class. Classes will be forming based on interest and availability.
Level 1 Class
What is covered in the level 1 class?
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Nose touch
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Tuck sit
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Front paw targeting
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Shake a paw/high five (in sit and stand)
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Cookie stretches
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Kickback stand
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Spin left and right
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Fold back down stand
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Pivoting with rear limbs
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Obstacle course using cavelettis
Course Requirements and Recommended Equipment (And Alternatives)
Dogs must have completed at least a puppy or basic obedience class or have earned AKC's virtual manners (puppy or adult) and be generally in good health.
This course is not appropriate for dogs who are recovering from injuries, morbidly obese or in pain.
Puppies are permitted with special care to avoid repetitive moments.
2 Blue-9 Products Klimbs
For small dogs 1 Klimb may be sufficient, but we will want to make sure they can fit with good form across one platform. For medium to large(ish) dogs two will be required to maintain good form on some exercises. Very large dogs may need to work on the floor. The color of the Klimb does not matter. Klimbs can be purchased on Amazon for $189.95 for one with no accessories. One set of the Sure Feet at can also be helpful when the legs are not in use to fill in the gaps and protect paws and treats. You can purchase on Amazon a package that includes both the Klimb and the Sure Feet for $199.95.
The KLIMB will be used widely throughout the class. Because it is such a versatile piece of equipment, it is recommended that students consider purchasing one. However, all of the exercises can also be completed on the ground and very large dogs who can not fit on a Klimb with proper form will need to complete the exercises on the ground. Alternatively if you own a Canto board you may be able to use that. A human aerobic exercise stepper (with or without risers) may also work.
Balance Pad
Fit Paws is the brand the trainer will be using. Available for purchase on Amazon at $49.95.
Balance pads marketed to humans rather than dogs should also work just fine.
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Cavaletti Poles
The trainer will be using the Trixie brand hurdle cone set (2 sets to make 6 cavaletti poles). Available on Amazon for $32.99 per set.
You can construct cavaletti poles using PVC piping and cones or cheap laundry baskets, foam pool noodles, low agility jumps, or even golf clubs balanced on tennis shoes.
Rubber Feed Bucket
Choose the appropriate size depending on the size of your dog. Heavy dogs may need two stacked on top of each other to support their weight. 2 quart size should work for most dogs. Available on Amazon for $17.99.
Any raised flat surface can be used in place of the feed bin. A coffee can, brick, short upside down bucket. Keep it low the dog's forelimbs should remain under their shoulders.
Silicone or Rubber Targets
Fit Paws Dog Training Targets (count of 4) is what the trainer will be using. These can be purchased for $22.95 on Amazon
Any small piece of non-slip rubber matting can work.
Training Vest or Treat Pouch & Yummy Treats
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