03/04/2026
🎆At its core, PARKOUR is a conversation with the Environment🎆
The International Dog Parkour Association's canine parkour titling program is one of the funnest things I have done with my dogs -- of all ages. The Training Level exercises are suitable for dogs aged 3-18 mths, as well as Senior dogs. Dogs over 18 months old can earn a Novice Level title and go onto Intermediate, Excellent and Specialty titles.
Titling is through IDPA video submission, similar to AKC's virtual Rally and Trick Dog online programs. Although the titles are not AKC recognized, AKC does support the association. International dogs can earn these titles, too! No registration numbers required so ANY dog can do it.
IMO Parkour is meant to be done outside: in the city, in the country. The test elements correspond to many AKC rally and trick dog behaviors, only they are done with OBJECTS.
If the exercise can be done without an object, i.e., spin in a circle, it's a Trick. If it requires some sort of prop (found in the environment, like a tree, fire hydrant) and your dog must interact with that in some way, i.e., go around it, on it, over it, under it, it's Parkour.
Naiade earned her Training Level title this summer when she was 11 months old, She's now over 18 mths and we are beginning work on her Novice Title.
I am going to 'teach' Parkour here by showing you how I prepare for and execute the different exercises necessary for a Novice Title. I'll talk about it, write about, show you pictures and videos throughout the month of April, Canine Fitness Month. I'll be happy to answer questions, make suggestions and check out your submission videos, if you want to participate.
Although, I am not a 'certified' instructor, I've taken the IDPA instructor course twice, their evaluator course and their puppy parkour course. Why? Because I like this dog sport a lot and hope to encourage others to participate! It's a great way to work on functional fitness for most other dog sports.
So follow along, go outside and have fun with your dog, build a terrific working relationship and create confidence, all while earning a new title!
[NAIADE - on our Smooth TotoPAWDS, learning and practicing Two-Feet On, before taking it out into the real world.]
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DAY 1️⃣ - next we measure and review safety
