5 Titles You Can Get With Your Newfoundland That Aren’t Championships

Championships hold prestige in the world of dog competitions.

Not every dog should compete in the show ring for a conformation championship title though. And not everyone has the desire to compete in the show ring.

Pursuing titles outside of conformation championships can be equally rewarding and beneficial for both dogs and owners.

Obtaining titles such as obedience, rally, draft, water rescue, or Canine Good Citizen (CGC) reflects the diverse talents and capabilities of dogs beyond conformation showing. These titles highlight a dog’s ability to excel in various activities, showcasing their intelligence, trainability, and versatility.

For owners, working towards titles fosters a stronger bond with their canine companions through training, teamwork, and shared accomplishments.

Water Rescue

Water rescue titles showcase Newfoundland dogs’ instincts for water rescue, with their powerful build, webbed feet, and thick, water-resistant coats.

Titles like Water Dog (WD), Water Rescue Dog (WRD), and Water Rescue Dog Excellent (WRDX) are earned through rigorous training and testing, demonstrating proficiency in skills such as swimming, retrieving objects, towing boats, and aiding distressed swimmers.

Draft

Draft titles celebrate the historical role of Newfoundlands as draft dogs, assisting fishermen and merchants in hauling heavy loads along rugged terrains.

To earn draft titles like Draft Dog (DD), Draft Dog Excellent (DDX), or Team Draft Dog (TDD) dogs go through training to learn how to pull carts or sleds efficiently and safely, demonstrating their ability to work alongside their handlers to transport loads of various sizes.

Obedience

Obedience titles are a testament to the intelligence, trainability, and dedication of Newfoundland dogs, showcasing their ability to excel not only in traditional working roles but also in obedience training and competitions.

Titles like Companion Dog (CD), Companion Dog Excellent (CDX), and Utility Dog (UD) are earned during obedience trials where dogs must demonstrate precision, responsiveness, and reliability in following commands. Newfoundlands, known for their gentle nature and eagerness to please, often thrive in obedience training, excelling in tasks such as heeling, recalls, stays, and retrieving objects.

Canine Good Citizen

Earning a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) title is a testament to the gentle and sociable nature of Newfoundland by highlighting their ability to be well-mannered and obedient members of society.

Achieving CGC titles involves demonstrating good behavior and manners in various real-life situations, such as interacting politely with strangers, remaining calm in crowded environments, and responding appropriately to commands from their handlers.

Newfoundlands are known for their calm demeanor and friendly disposition and often excel in CGC evaluations.

Rally

Rally represents a unique opportunity for Newfoundlands to showcase their obedience, intelligence, and versatility in a dynamic and engaging setting.

In rally competitions, dogs and handlers navigate a course together, completing a series of obedience exercises while following a set of signs or instructions along the way.

Titles like Rally Novice (RN), Rally Advanced (RA), and Rally Excellent (RE) are earned through demonstrating proficiency in various skills such as heeling, recalls, and navigating through obstacles with precision and enthusiasm.

Engaging in activities to earn titles provides mental stimulation and physical exercise for dogs, contributing to their overall well-being and happiness. Participating in activities to earn titles offers opportunities for socialization, networking with other dog lovers, and contributing to the community through volunteer work or public demonstrations.

Ultimately, pursuing titles outside of the conformation show ring enriches the lives of dogs and owners by celebrating their abilities and strengthening their bond.