Check out the list of dog events and canine sports taking place during the 2026 New York State Canine Expo!
Please Note: All events will require an Expo Ticket to enter the gates of the fair grounds, the pricing for each event does not include the main gate entry.
Bringing home a shelter dog can be incredibly rewarding, but the transition period into a new home often comes with unique behavioral challenges. This presentation explores what dogs experience during the adjustment process, common behavioral concerns seen after adoption, and how owners can set their new companions up for success. Drawing from shelter and behavior experience, attendees will gain practical tools for understanding behavior, managing expectations, and helping newly adopted dogs thrive in their homes.
Fast Cat AKC Trials are the official competitions where dogs race against the clock for the fastest time over a 100-yard course. Watch the excitement unfold as dogs compete for top speeds. Exact trial times are TBD. Entry fees will apply for participants, and spectators are welcome to cheer on the competitors!
All breeds and mixed breeds welcome!!
Participants must submit AKC registrations and will be notified by the club on entry status.
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Is your young dog ready to take their first steps into the agility ring? This workshop is designed to give you and your dog the essential handling skills needed to navigate a Novice-level course with confidence. We’ll focus on two of the most fundamental techniques in agility handling — the rear cross and the front cross — breaking each one down in a clear, progressive way so both you and your dog can learn at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re brand new to competition or just looking to build a solid foundation before your first trial, this workshop will give you the tools to work as a team and tackle a Novice course successfully.
6 Participants
Prerequisite: Dogs must be able to perform jumps and tunnels prior to attending. Space is limited, so grab your spot and get ready to run!
Happy Ratters sanctioned Trials
Entries must have BH# to enter
Link to Premium Below
2026-09-Expo-HappyRattersPremium
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Happy Ratters
The Happy Ratter’s Philosophy – the goal is for the dog and owner to have a fun, positive and successful experience while enhancing the bond between dog and owner, and placing a high priority on safety!
Fun, trusting environment for dogs and their handlers to hunt vermin(rats) in “urban” settings.
A titling program that allows all dogs to compete toward different level titles.
A program that encourages camaraderie and support between competitors.
“urban” setting: trash bags, boxes and barrels and other items possibly found in a city alley, with the big difference being this is
clean “trash”.
Meet the Rat/ Demos 9am-10am — Try Its – start at 11am
This lecture and demonstration explores aversive tools commonly used in dog training—such as prong and shock collars—and introduces effective, modern alternatives. Our goal isn’t to debate training philosophies, but to educate attendees on the humane, science-based options available today.
Come learn about Parkour – a sport where dogs navigate and interact with their environment using climbing, jumping, balancing, going under or around obstacles and other movements inspired by human parkour.
It’s a fun, low impact activity that can boost a dog’s confidence and fitness.
This demonstration will show some of the foundational behaviors and how they are applied to the environment.
Trick training is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool for building real-life skills. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to use tricks to improve engagement, confidence, body awareness, impulse control, and overall reliability. Learn how to turn playful behaviors into functional skills that translate into everyday life, from polite manners to advanced training concepts. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to elevate your dog’s training, this session will show you how to train with purpose while keeping it fun and rewarding. Trick Dog testing will be offered both days; no preregistration required.
Get ready for some high-flying action! This NADD trial gives dogs the chance to show off their dock diving skills, leaping into the water after a toy or other item. Whether it’s your dog’s first dive or you’re training for future trials, all levels are welcome to compete.
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Curious about positive training but not sure where to start? Tried it and felt stuck?
This FREE, no-pressure workshop introduces the basics of science-based, reward-based training. No dog required.
You’ll learn where to start, how to build skills step by step, when to add a cue, and how to adjust when things don’t go as planned. Practice with a stuffed animal, then you’ll have the option to work with your own dog.
We’ll use a simple framework called D.I.R.T.—Decide, Imagine, Revise, Train—to help set you and your dog up for success.
Come with a dog or come solo. Learn, practice, and have FUN.
(Limit of 10 free working spots – Unlimited auditors)
Trick training is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool for building real-life skills. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to use tricks to improve engagement, confidence, body awareness, impulse control, and overall reliability. Learn how to turn playful behaviors into functional skills that translate into everyday life, from polite manners to advanced training concepts. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to elevate your dog’s training, this session will show you how to train with purpose while keeping it fun and rewarding. Trick Dog testing will be offered both days; no preregistration required.
Trick title testing for AKC Novice Trick Dog & Intermediate Trick Dog, and a ribbon to celebrate their achievements.
Come see if your dog is ready to be a Tricks certification holder or Canine Good Citizen! These certifications are offered through PAWS and AKC.
Located with the Obedience and Rally.
All proceeds for events and certifications go to Washington County Correctional Canine Training Program.
The Northland Newfoundland Club, which is a regional club for the Newfoundland Club of America (AKC), is putting on demonstrations all day of their carting abilities as well as what we practice on land to do their water work. If you have ever been interested in this breed or the work they do stop by and see them in action.
Introduce you and your dog to the fun sport of K9 Nose Work in this introductory workshop. Dogs will learn to search for hidden treats using box searches, helping them develop natural scenting abilities while building confidence, independence, and enthusiasm for the game. Handlers will focus on learning to read their dog’s behavior and body language as they encounter odor.
Dog Parkour is a low-impact sport for every dog. It is a great way to interact with the environment and build confidence.
Parkour provides cross training for other activities; your dog will use new skills in balance and spatial awareness.
Teams will explore skills, safety and discuss titling options following the International Dog Parkour Association framework.
The Try It will allow up to 8 working spots.
A 2-hour mini-course on canine tracking. Participants will be presented with the basics of how to teach their dog to track and locate a missing or lost person (follow ground-borne human scent to a reward – similar to police “tracking” dogs, or man-trailing dogs or Search & Rescue dogs, etc.). All levels are welcome to this no-pressure, no-judgement, cooperative learning class where only positive, reward-based techniques are used. Participants can learn a fun way to interact with their pets, while simultaneously providing mental and physical stimulation to their dog.
Participants are asked to have a non-restrictive harness and bring A LOT of the dog’s favorite treats (or toys).
This lecture provides a practical overview of training your own service dog while staying compliant with the law. Learn your rights and responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including where service dogs are allowed and what qualifies as a service animal.
We’ll cover how state and local laws may differ, what businesses can legally ask (and what they cannot), and how to handle public interactions with confidence.
You’ll also learn what legally constitutes a trained “task,” the difference between service dogs and emotional support animals, and the foundational skills needed for a reliable working dog.
Perfect for individuals, families, and professionals look
Herding Instinct Test (Non-AKC)
Description:
Amanda Farnsworth of Cherry Hill Training Center and her Team will be offering a Herding Instinct Test at the NYS Canine Expo. This test is a first step in assessing your dog’s natural herding abilities.
Test Duration: 10 minutes.
There is a fee for this test and it is due prior to starting the test.
Sign-up details to follow and a waiver is required to protect the livestock during testing.
Note: This test is not an AKC (American Kennel Club) test.
“Recharge and play with your dog at the Enrichment Playground!
Featuring 7 low-pressure, dog-led stations designed to build confidence and connection, dogs and handlers can enjoy:
Scent Adventure
Sniff Out Snacks
Texture Trail
Dig & Forage Pit
Tunnel Fun
Puzzle Corner
Interactive Play Station (tugs and toys) 🐾
The goal is to give dogs positive, engaging enrichment experiences while sharing fun, practical ideas you can try at home or with your client dogs!”
Cooperative Care Training teaches your pets to become active participants in their own health care behaviors, like nail clipping, brushing hair or teeth, and even receiving vaccines! Come check out tools and equipment used in this training, and we will coach you and your dog through the first steps in using a scratch board or muzzle.
Make sure to bring lots of soft and smelly treats for your dog!
Speedway (CPE event) is a great way to introduce your dog to the trial environment. The obstacles in Speedway are hoops, barrels and tunnels. No contacts. Young and elder dogs can be active with low impact!! Come watch and see how much fun it is.
This event is ALL DAY! Come and try it with your dog!
Hudson Valley Agility Club is a NY based AKC registered Club.
Hounds of the Hudson is a CPE club.
Bring your pup into a Rally Novice ring and walk the course to get a feel for what Rally looks like when you’re ready to trial. Ask questions, do a run through, or simply have fun running the course!
In the new sport of Fetch-It, we are hear to guide you through the novice level! Come learn some of the techniques and basics of earning your fetch-it novice.
Step into the ring and test yourself in a beginner novice level competitive obedience trial. Ask us questions and have the opportunity to be walked through the trialing sequence.
Come learn how to be the best version of yourself for you dog. The other end of the leash is just as, if not more important than your pup! During this interactive workshop we dive into how our dogs think, how we can be better for them, communication skills, and general behaviors that every dog owner wants to understand fully.
See what Nosework is all about! Watch novice and advanced dogs demonstrate nosework by searching containers, vehicles and exteriors under trial conditions.
RocDog Therapy Dog Test
Here is information for the therapy dog tests. Canine Good Citizen test is
also available if the handler has not completed that test before taking the
therapy dog test. They would need to indicate if they need both tests.
They need to bring written proof of CGC test certification and/or take the
CGC test as well at the therapy dog test.
There will be two tests. One test on Saturday and one test on Sunday.
Both days it will be at 11am. Handlers need to arrive promptly at 11am or
even a little early.
Saturday Sept 26th 11am- Colleen O’Leary Evaluator
Sunday Sept 27th 11am- Mary Ann Kocon
I would say allow 60 to 90 minutes.
Limit 10 handlers per test
Pay day of test to the evaluator
$10 for the therapy dog test
$10 for the CGC test (if needed)
RocDog Therapy Dog Testing
. All dogs must be non-aggressive to others
. All dogs must be pre-registered to test
. Dogs must be on a flat, buckle or snap collar with a 6-foot leash
. Dog and handler are under evaluation the entire time that they can
be seen by the evaluator
. Please refrain from allowing dogs to play or “say hello” to the
other dogs when in the testing area
. NO FLEXI LEADS
Information needed on form:
Handler Name
Address
Phone Number
Email
Dog’s name
Dog’s breed
Dog’s age
If CGC is needed (yes/no)
Pay on day of evaluation (Cash only)
$10 Therapy dog test
$10 CGC
Date/time of test-So they can select Saturday or Sunday
Disc competition
Saturday we will run the following Updog games:
Time Warp
Greedy
Boom
Throw n Go
4 way play
4 way play pairs
Link to register
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Scentwork isn’t just about finding the hide, It’s about everything that happens before your dog ever reaches the search area.
From crate… to leash… to start line. Scentwork is more than a searching exercise, it’s a partnership exercise that builds trust and confidence. The search doesn’t begin at “Go sniff.” It begins the second your dog steps out of the car.
This workshop will focus on building a better rountine including a solid start line release. A novice container search will be set up for the dogs to search, but not the main focus.
What to Bring
-Your scentwork gear, including long line (10-12 foot), harness, high value treats and or toy
Prerequisite:
Dogs must be imprinted on Birch
Learn the first steps in teaching nosework by participating in a short class where birch will be first paired with food, then a simple container search.
Prerequisite:
Limited to 8 dogs participating – others may observe. Dogs must be under control and respond to sit and stay commands. Handlers should have treats but if not some will be provided.
Watch members of the Hudson Valley Agility Club and friends demonstrate agility fundamentals with dynamic canine partners. This session highlights the athleticism and focus involved in the sport, offering insights into how both novice and experienced dogs can succeed on the course.
This workshop explores how game-based Nose Work exercises can accelerate learning, increase motivation, and improve performance for both dogs and handlers. Participants will learn how games build key skills such as reading your dog, working with time constraints, search area coverage, and problem-solving, all while creating meaningful challenge in a low-pressure environment. Attendees will get to play practical, fun, games with their dogs and other handlers.
This lecture will discuss tips, tricks, and troubleshooting for acclimating your fearful dog to everyday life without going too quickly or overwhelming them. In this presentation, attendees will learn how to recognize the sometimes subtle behavioral and body language signs of canine stress and understand how emotions influence behavior. Practical, science-based strategies for reducing stress and supporting behavioral wellness will be discussed, helping owners build confidence, strengthen their relationship with their dogs, and improve overall quality of life.
Come watch some professional weight pull dogs compete to see who can pull the most weight! These dogs are trained, seasoned athletes who would love to demonstrate the sport and the versatility of the weight pull dog! Talk to handlers, learn about the sport, and say hi to some of our lovely pups!
Ready to take your runs to the next level? This workshop is designed for the competitor who is already playing the game at the AKC Excellent/Masters level and wants to start putting up clean runs — and maybe even tackle Premier. We’ll dig into the handling skills that separate the Q’s from the near-misses: backsides, threadles, blind crosses, 270 combinations, and the advanced serpentine variations that judges love to include in Masters and Premier courses. If you’re tired of coming off the course with that near-miss, this workshop is for you.
6 Participants
Prerequisite: Dogs must have earned at least one AKC Excellent leg in Standard or JWW and must be proficient on all contacts and weave poles.
Herding Instinct Test (Non-AKC)
Description:
Amanda Farnsworth of Cherry Hill Training Center and her Team will be offering a Herding Instinct Test at the NYS Canine Expo. This test is a first step in assessing your dog’s natural herding abilities.
Test Duration: 10 minutes.
There is a fee for this test and it is due prior to starting the test.
Sign-up details to follow and a waiver is required to protect the livestock during testing.
Note: This test is not an AKC (American Kennel Club) test.
A 2-hour mini-course on canine detection. Participants will be presented with the basics of how to teach their dog to sniff out and respond to legal odors (similar to police “drug” dogs, or bed-bug detection dogs, etc.). All levels are welcome to this no-pressure, no-judgement, cooperative learning class where only positive, reward-based techniques are used. Participants can learn a fun way to interact with their pets, while simultaneously providing mental and physical stimulation to their dog.
Participants are asked to have a non-restrictive collar or harness and bring A LOT of the dog’s favorite treats (or toys).
Maximum of 8 participants
This fun workshop focuses on creative enrichment activities that engage your dog’s mind and body. Barb will guide teams through either the Get on Base Game or the Cone Squares Game, with an introduction to enrichment principles and one-on-one coaching. These sessions are designed to improve focus, communication, and confidence in dogs of all experience levels.
Format Overview
10-minute introduction on enrichment games
40 minutes of hands-on coaching
Individual instruction for each dog/handler team
Participation Requirements
Reliable recall
Flat collar and leash
Dog comfortable around people/dogs
60 to 100 treats
$40 per dog/handler team (5 working spots) $10 per auditor (unlimited)
Book Signing to follow at 2:00pm
Low-pressure mock trial featuring both a container search and a vehicle search. Each team will have 3 minutes per search, giving handlers and dogs a chance to practice in a trial-style setting without the stress of an official event. This is a great opportunity to build confidence, fine-tune skills, and gain experience in a supportive environment. Teams may arrive and run anytime between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Spots are limited to 15 teams.
Prerequisite:
Must be on odor
Bring your Positive Herding and/or Enrichment Games books to this event for a special moment & signature with Barbara.
Books will be available for sale at the signing if you don’t have one yet!
This workshop will allow you to get working knowledge and try the sport with your pup with 1 on 1 coaching.
In this workshop you will gain an understanding of the equipment, basics, benefits, and how it can help build a better bond with your dog. Weight pull is a low impact exercise that is open to dogs of all ages and breeds, helps build confidence, works the mind and body, and is an excellent outlet for your pup!
No equipment or previous training needed!
This is a safe and welcoming environment, please ask any questions at anytime.
Limit of 6 working sports per session!
Prerequisite: None, Dogs can be any age or breed, dogs just must be healthy and be able to be controlled on a leash
Fast Cat AKC Trials are the official competitions where dogs race against the clock for the fastest time over a 100-yard course. Watch the excitement unfold as dogs compete for top speeds. Exact trial times are TBD. Entry fees will apply for participants, and spectators are welcome to cheer on the competitors!
All breeds and mixed breeds welcome!!
Participants must submit AKC registrations and will be notified by the club on entry status.
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Happy Ratters sanctioned Trials
Entries must have BH# to enter
Link to Premium Below
2026-09-Expo-HappyRattersPremium
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Is your young dog ready to take their first steps into the agility ring? This workshop is designed to give you and your dog the essential handling skills needed to navigate a Novice-level course with confidence. We’ll focus on two of the most fundamental techniques in agility handling — the rear cross and the front cross — breaking each one down in a clear, progressive way so both you and your dog can learn at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re brand new to competition or just looking to build a solid foundation before your first trial, this workshop will give you the tools to work as a team and tackle a Novice course successfully.
6 Participants
Prerequisite: Dogs must be able to perform jumps and tunnels prior to attending. Space is limited, so grab your spot and get ready to run!
Join us for another exciting day of dock diving! The NADD trial is open to dogs of all skill levels. Your dog can earn titles while enjoying the thrill of a splash! Whether new to the sport or a seasoned competitor, these trials are a fun opportunity to showcase your dog’s diving talent.
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
Trick training is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool for building real-life skills. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to use tricks to improve engagement, confidence, body awareness, impulse control, and overall reliability. Learn how to turn playful behaviors into functional skills that translate into everyday life, from polite manners to advanced training concepts. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to elevate your dog’s training, this session will show you how to train with purpose while keeping it fun and rewarding. Trick Dog testing will be offered both days; no preregistration required.
Trick title testing for AKC Novice Trick Dog & Intermediate Trick Dog, and a ribbon to celebrate their achievements.
At the start of each scheduled time, we will provide a brief overview of Rally Obedience. We will have a Novice level course set up, and each sign will be explained. This will be followed by a demonstration of how a Rally course is run. Each person attending will then have the opportunity to run a Novice level Rally course, with input from Mary.
The Northland Newfoundland Club, which is a regional club for the Newfoundland Club of America (AKC), is putting on demonstrations all day of their carting abilities as well as what we practice on land to do their water work. If you have ever been interested in this breed or the work they do stop by and see them in action.
This workshop will allow you to get working knowledge and try the sport with your pup with 1 on 1 coaching.
In this workshop you will gain an understanding of the equipment, basics, benefits, and how it can help build a better bond with your dog. Weight pull is a low impact exercise that is open to dogs of all ages and breeds, helps build confidence, works the mind and body, and is an excellent outlet for your pup!
No equipment or previous training needed!
This is a safe and welcoming environment, please ask any questions at anytime.
Limit of 6 working sports per session!
Prerequisite: None, Dogs can be any age or breed, dogs just must be healthy and be able to be controlled on a leash
Come see if your dog is ready to be a Tricks certification holder or Canine Good Citizen! These certifications are offered through PAWS and AKC.
Located with the Obedience and Rally.
All proceeds for events and certifications go to Washington County Correctional Canine Training Program.
This lecture and demonstration explores aversive tools commonly used in dog training—such as prong and shock collars—and introduces effective, modern alternatives. Our goal isn’t to debate training philosophies, but to educate attendees on the humane, science-based options available today.
This unique herding workshop with live sheep can be done with or without a dog.
Dogs may attend on leash for an introduction to sheep. If your dog can remain calm, they’ll have the opportunity to move sheep. If they become over-excited, they’ll step out of the training area—but you’ll continue by moving sheep yourself and receive coaching on stock handling, timing, and position.
Working without a dog is just as engaging, informative, and fun. Dogs read sheep well, but sheep read people, dogs, and the environment even better. This is a fun, eye-opening first step into herding – guaranteed.
Don’t miss this unique experience of moving a small group of sheep through a course of chutes!
Happy Ratters
The Happy Ratter’s Philosophy – the goal is for the dog and owner to have a fun, positive and successful experience while enhancing the bond between dog and owner, and placing a high priority on safety!
Fun, trusting environment for dogs and their handlers to hunt vermin(rats) in “urban” settings.
A titling program that allows all dogs to compete toward different level titles.
A program that encourages camaraderie and support between competitors.
“urban” setting: trash bags, boxes and barrels and other items possibly found in a city alley, with the big difference being this is
clean “trash”.
Meet the Rat/ Demos 9am-10am — Try Its – start at 11am
Come learn about Parkour – a sport where dogs navigate and interact with their environment using climbing, jumping, balancing, going under or around obstacles and other movements inspired by human parkour.
It’s a fun, low impact activity that can boost a dog’s confidence and fitness.
This demonstration will show some of the foundational behaviors and how they are applied to the environment.
Trick training is more than just fun—it’s a powerful tool for building real-life skills. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to use tricks to improve engagement, confidence, body awareness, impulse control, and overall reliability. Learn how to turn playful behaviors into functional skills that translate into everyday life, from polite manners to advanced training concepts. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to elevate your dog’s training, this session will show you how to train with purpose while keeping it fun and rewarding. Trick Dog testing will be offered both days; no preregistration required.
Introduce you and your dog to the fun sport of K9 Nose Work in this introductory workshop. Dogs will learn to search for hidden treats using box searches, helping them develop natural scenting abilities while building confidence, independence, and enthusiasm for the game. Handlers will focus on learning to read their dog’s behavior and body language as they encounter odor.
Dog Parkour is a low-impact sport for every dog. It is a great way to interact with the environment and build confidence.
Parkour provides cross training for other activities; your dog will use new skills in balance and spatial awareness.
Teams will explore skills, safety and discuss titling options following the International Dog Parkour Association framework.
The Try It will allow up to 8 working spots.
This lecture provides a practical overview of training your own service dog while staying compliant with the law. Learn your rights and responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including where service dogs are allowed and what qualifies as a service animal.
We’ll cover how state and local laws may differ, what businesses can legally ask (and what they cannot), and how to handle public interactions with confidence.
You’ll also learn what legally constitutes a trained “task,” the difference between service dogs and emotional support animals, and the foundational skills needed for a reliable working dog.
Perfect for individuals, families, and professionals look
A 2-hour mini-course on canine tracking. Participants will be presented with the basics of how to teach their dog to track and locate a missing or lost person (follow ground-borne human scent to a reward – similar to police “tracking” dogs, or man-trailing dogs or Search & Rescue dogs, etc.). All levels are welcome to this no-pressure, no-judgement, cooperative learning class where only positive, reward-based techniques are used. Participants can learn a fun way to interact with their pets, while simultaneously providing mental and physical stimulation to their dog.
Participants are asked to have a non-restrictive harness and bring A LOT of the dog’s favorite treats (or toys).
Maximum of 8 participants
Cooperative Care Training teaches your pets to become active participants in their own health care behaviors, like nail clipping, brushing hair or teeth, and even receiving vaccines! Come check out tools and equipment used in this training, and we will coach you and your dog through the first steps in using a scratch board or muzzle.
Make sure to bring lots of soft and smelly treats for your dog!
Herding Instinct Demo
This demonstration and workshop will introduce people to AKC Rally Competition. There will be a brief discussion of what Rally is and the different levels and then allow dog owners come into the ring to do a Rally Novice Course with guidance.
Speedway (CPE event) is a great way to introduce your dog to the trial environment. The obstacles in Speedway are hoops, barrels and tunnels. No contacts. Young and elder dogs can be active with low impact!! Come watch and see how much fun it is.
This is ALL DAY! Stop by!!
Hudson Valley Agility Club is an AKC registered club.
Hounds of the Hudson is a CPE Club.
Reality is a class for anyone to join that will cover basic foundations of obedience in a realistic situation, teaching a public skills and drill while going over a typical group class structure in a motivating community environment.
All proceeds for events and certifications go to Washington County Correctional Canine Training Program.
RocDog Therapy Dog Test
Here is information for the therapy dog tests. Canine Good Citizen test is
also available if the handler has not completed that test before taking the
therapy dog test. They would need to indicate if they need both tests.
They need to bring written proof of CGC test certification and/or take the
CGC test as well at the therapy dog test.
There will be two tests. One test on Saturday and one test on Sunday.
Both days it will be at 11am. Handlers need to arrive promptly at 11am or
even a little early.
Saturday Sept 26th 11am- Colleen O’Leary Evaluator
Sunday Sept 27th 11am- Mary Ann Kocon
I would say allow 60 to 90 minutes.
Limit 10 handlers per test
Pay day of test to the evaluator
$10 for the therapy dog test
$10 for the CGC test (if needed)
RocDog Therapy Dog Testing
. All dogs must be non-aggressive to others
. All dogs must be pre-registered to test
. Dogs must be on a flat, buckle or snap collar with a 6-foot leash
. Dog and handler are under evaluation the entire time that they can
be seen by the evaluator
. Please refrain from allowing dogs to play or “say hello” to the
other dogs when in the testing area
. NO FLEXI LEADS
Information needed on form:
Handler Name
Address
Phone Number
Email
Dog’s name
Dog’s breed
Dog’s age
If CGC is needed (yes/no)
Pay on day of evaluation (Cash only)
$10 Therapy dog test
$10 CGC
Date/time of test-So they can select Saturday or Sunday
Disc competition
Sunday we will run the following UpDog games:
Frizgility
7-up
For the trials occurring at the Expo, competitors are given 1 free admission ticket per day regardless of number of entries, names are provided by trial secretary a week prior. You must have proof of trial entry upon entrance to the Expo.
See what Nosework is all about! Watch novice and advanced dogs demonstrate nosework by searching containers, vehicles and exteriors under trial conditions.
Disc competition
Sunday we will do try-its in the following games:
4 way play
Time Warp
Scentwork isn’t just about finding the hide, It’s about everything that happens before your dog ever reaches the search area.
From crate… to leash… to start line. Scentwork is more than a searching exercise, it’s a partnership exercise that builds trust and confidence. The search doesn’t begin at “Go sniff.” It begins the second your dog steps out of the car.
This workshop will focus on building a better rountine including a solid start line release. A novice container search will be set up for the dogs to search, but not the main focus.
What to Bring
-Your scentwork gear, including long line (10-12 foot), harness, high value treats and or toy
Prerequisite:
Dogs must be imprinted on Birch
Learn the first steps in teaching nosework by participating in a short class where birch will be first paired with food, then a simple container search.
Prerequisite:
Limited to 8 dogs participating – others may observe. Dogs must be under control and respond to sit and stay commands. Handlers should have treats but if not some will be provided.
Watch members of the Hudson Valley Agility Club and friends demonstrate agility fundamentals with dynamic canine partners. This session highlights the athleticism and focus involved in the sport, offering insights into how both novice and experienced dogs can succeed on the course.
This demonstration will give a brief description of what is competition obedience and the different levels and titles a handler and dog can obtain. The different levels will be demonstrated from the beginning level to the high competition levels of Open and Utility. There will be opportunities to ask questions throughout the demonstrations.
Come watch some professional weight pull dogs compete to see who can pull the most weight! These dogs are trained, seasoned athletes who would love to demonstrate the sport and the versatility of the weight pull dog! Talk to handlers, learn about the sport, and say hi to some of our lovely pups!
Not sure when your dog has found source? This workshop focuses on developing your ability to recognize and interpret your dog’s subtle changes of behavior as they happen. Learn how to identify shifts in body language so you can better understand what your dog is telling you in the moment. We’ll cover common indicators of odor, distraction, and uncertainty, and how your handling choices can influence what you see. Ideal for teams looking to improve timing, communication, and overall search accuracy.
Herding Instinct Test (Non-AKC)
Description:
Amanda Farnsworth of Cherry Hill Training Center and her Team will be offering a Herding Instinct Test at the NYS Canine Expo. This test is a first step in assessing your dog’s natural herding abilities.
Test Duration: 10 minutes.
There is a fee for this test and it is due prior to starting the test.
Sign-up details to follow and a waiver is required to protect the livestock during testing.
Note: This test is not an AKC (American Kennel Club) test.
A 2-hour mini-course on canine detection. Participants will be presented with the basics of how to teach their dog to sniff out and respond to legal odors (similar to police “drug” dogs, or bed-bug detection dogs, etc.). All levels are welcome to this no-pressure, no-judgement, cooperative learning class where only positive, reward-based techniques are used. Participants can learn a fun way to interact with their pets, while simultaneously providing mental and physical stimulation to their dog.
Participants are asked to have a non-restrictive collar or harness and bring A LOT of the dog’s favorite treats (or toys).
Maximum of 8 participants
Ready to take your runs to the next level? This workshop is designed for the competitor who is already playing the game at the AKC Excellent/Masters level and wants to start putting up clean runs — and maybe even tackle Premier. We’ll dig into the handling skills that separate the Q’s from the near-misses: backsides, threadles, blind crosses, 270 combinations, and the advanced serpentine variations that judges love to include in Masters and Premier courses. If you’re tired of coming off the course with that near-miss, this workshop is for you.
6 Participants
Prerequisite: Dogs must have earned at least one AKC Excellent leg in Standard or JWW and must be proficient on all contacts and weave poles.
Come learn how to be the best version of yourself for you dog. The other end of the leash is just as, if not more important than your pup! During this interactive workshop we dive into how our dogs think, how we can be better for them, communication skills, and general behaviors that every dog owner wants to understand fully.
Local organizations will compete in a light-hearted herding challenge for year-long bragging rights and a first-place ribbon.
Before the trial begins, there will be a short demonstration. Teams of two people will be randomly assigned a running order and a pen of sheep, then work together to guide three or four sheep through a set course. The trial is timed, with points awarded for successfully navigating chutes and obstacles. The judge’s decision is final 😉
This event features people only—no dogs—and participants are from the local community.
Come cheer on your favorite team and enjoy a fun, educational way to wrap up the Expo!
Join us for a low-pressure mock trial featuring both a interior search and a exterior search. Each team will have 3 minutes per search, giving handlers and dogs a chance to practice in a trial-style setting without the stress of an official event. This is a great opportunity to build confidence, fine-tune skills, and gain experience in a supportive environment. Teams may arrive and run anytime between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Spots are limited to 15 Teams, so early sign-up is encouraged.
Prerequisite:
Must be on odor