Gold
Communication, Line Commitment and Smooth Sequencing
Gold represents advanced refinement in distance skills, cue clarity, and purposeful line shaping. Handlers remain stationary or minimally mobile, guiding the dog through complex patterns using precise verbal and positional cues rather than motion. The emphasis is on clean information: the handler sets the line, the dog follows it with confidence.
Dogs show strong commitment to their path, maintaining direction, layering obstacles naturally, and completing sequences independently even when the handler is well removed from the working area. Their ability to hold lines, stay focused, and flow through patterns reflects a deep understanding of the cues they’re given.
Gold teams work with smooth rhythm and intention — a partnership defined by clarity, trust, and polished communication.
Gold Skills Title
Eligibility: Any dog aged 12 months and older with a CHC ID#
Equipment Required
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6 hoops
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4 barrels
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1 tunnel
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1 gate
Training & Recording Environment
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It is recommended that you record all exercises in a low-distraction environment to support your dog’s success.
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Your dog should show a willingness to work and remain comfortable throughout the session.
Gear
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A flat collar or harness is acceptable.
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Please remove or secure any dangling tags.
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Choke chains, prong collars, and electronic collars are not permitted in CHC testing.
Test Requirements
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All elements outlined in this test must be completed to earn the CHC Gold Hooper Skills Title.
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Your video must show each exercise separately, clearly, and in full.
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The examiner must be able to see the entire exercise from start to finish.
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If any part of an exercise is incomplete or unclear, it will be marked NR (Not Quite Ready).
Rewards
Rewards — treats, toys, praise — may not be used during exercises (unless stated otherwise) but can be given upon completion of the exercise.
Written Questions
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The written portion of the test is based on the current CHC Rules & Guidelines, available on the CHC website.
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Please review the rules prior to completing the written section to ensure accuracy.
Section 1: Forward Drive
Section 2: Arch
Section 3: Sequencing
Section 4: Layering
Section 5: CHC Written Questions
How the Titling Program Works
The CHC Hooper Skills Titling Program is designed to be accessible, supportive, and fun — and our Skills Submission process reflects that. Each level of the program is completed through a simple video‑based submission that allows you and your dog to work at your own pace, in your own training space.
Here’s how it works
1. Download Your Skills Level PDF
Start by downloading the Skills Level PDF for the level you’re working on.
2. Train the required skills for your level
Each level includes a set of clearly defined exercises that showcase your dog’s understanding of distance, line commitment, independence, and cue clarity appropriate to that stage. A dedicated Facebook training group is available to help you learn, practice, and ask questions as you prepare.
3. Record your video submission
When you’re ready, film each required element. Videos can be taken in any safe training environment — indoors, outdoors, at home, or at your training field. Your video must show each exercise separately, clearly, and in full.
4. Submit your skills video for evaluation
Upload your video link (YouTube/Vimeo) with your payment through the CHC submission portal. Our evaluators review each element to ensure it meets the criteria for your level.
5. Receive feedback and your results
You’ll receive your results via email with a clear Pass or NR (Not Quite Ready) for each element.
6. Earn your CHC Skills Title, Medal, and Certificate
Once all elements of a level are successfully completed and evaluated, your team earns your CHC Skills Title, along with a CHC Skills Medal and a printable certificate recognizing your achievement.
Medals will be shipped; certificates will be emailed. Each title and medal marks meaningful progress in your distance‑handling journey.