Instructions
Train your dog in basic agility commands before attempting to qualify for Nationals. CPE offers classes for dogs of all skill levels, but your dog must know how to navigate standard agility equipment in order to receive qualifying scores. Speak with your local agility club and attend classes to train your dog on basic obstacles such as jumps, weave poles, A-frames, tunnels and dog walks.
Join CPE and register your dog. Membership and dog registration are required for entry into all events and to qualify for Nationals. Contact the CPE or visit its website to obtain the proper registration forms and information on current registration fees. You will receive a registration packet with your member number and your dog's CPE registration number, which you will need to enter CPE events.
Enter CPE trials in your area. The CPE website keeps a list of upcoming trials and provides the proper forms necessary to enter each class. Make sure you fill out the form completely, including your dog's registration number, height classification and call name. Circle the classes you wish to enter, and mail the form along with the proper fees to the address listed on the form. Mail your form as soon as possible to make sure your entry is counted before the trials' cut-off date. The show secretary will mail you a confirmation sheet along with a number that you will need to take to the trials with you.
Arrive at least an hour before your scheduled class time and check in with the ring steward. The steward will inform you of your running order and give you any special instructions for your class. Let your dog out to stretch and exercise to warm up before heading to the ring to wait for your number to be called.
Enter the ring and complete your run as accurately as possible. In order to qualify for the CPE Nationals, you need to have 20 qualifying runs during the current calendar year and complete your current class level. A qualifying run is a run in which your dog runs the course faster than the allotted time and does not incur any faults such as knocking over a jump.
Record your results at the completion of the class so you can keep track of how many qualifying runs your dog earned at the show. You will need to enter multiple trials in order to qualify for the Nationals, as most trials offer only three to five classes per weekend in which to earn qualifying runs. Once you have achieved enough qualifying runs, CPE will send you a letter congratulating you on your hard work and notifying you that you and your dog have earned a spot in the Nationals.
How to Qualify for CPE Nationals
Canine Performance Events hosts agility events across North America. CPE Nationals is the highest level of competition, with dogs from all over the the United States and Canada trying to qualify in local events for a spot in the show. Qualifying for the CPE Nationals takes skill and dedication from both handler and dog.