Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Registration
  • How much does it cost to register my dog? A one-time lifetime dog registration fee is $30. This includes assignment of a registration number.
  • Can all dogs participate? Yes. Dogs must be at least 9 months old. Tripods, blind, and deaf dogs are also welcome as long as they meet health requirements.
  • Do I need to register my dog for each event? No, once registered, your dog can participate in any NAWA-sanctioned event.
  • How do I register my dog? Fill out the registration form on the NAWA website and pay the registration fee.
  • Can I register my dog at an event? Yes, you can register your dog on-site at any NAWA-sanctioned event.
  • What if I lose my dog's registration number? Contact NAWA support to retrieve your dog's registration number.
  • Can I change my dog's registered name? Yes, but there is a $10 fee for name changes. Contact NAWA support to process the change.
  • Can I join if I was banned from another organization? Prior bans must be disclosed. Cases are reviewed individually by NAWA.
Eligibility & Safety
  • Are there age restrictions for dogs? Yes. Dogs under 1 year may only pull up to the Advanced title. Dogs over 12 need veterinary clearance.
  • What disqualifies a dog from competition? Signs of illness, injury, being in season, or on performance-enhancing substances will disqualify a dog.
  • Are muzzles or training collars allowed? Yes, but muzzles must allow drinking and breathing, and training collars must be removed before a pull starts.
Event Participation
  • How do I enter a competition? Events accept online, day-of, or pre-entries. Entry limits and methods must be listed in the event info.
  • How is my dog's weight class determined? Dogs must weigh in (witnessed by a judge) during the posted time. Weight is recorded to the nearest pound.
  • What are the weight classes? Ranges include: 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 125 lbs, and Unlimited (126+ lbs).
Rules & Penalties
  • What is considered a foul? Touching the dog, timing out, unhooking, excessive foul language, or pulling into the pull are all fouls.
  • Can I coach my dog during a pull? Verbal or physical cues are allowed only at the start. No one may stand at the end of the chute except official media.
  • What happens if I'm late submitting results or fees? A $20/week late fee applies. After 30 business days, results may be void and club status impacted.
Titles & Points
  • How do dogs earn points? Points come from class placements, dogs beaten, and percentage pulled.
  • What are milestone achievements? Pulling achievements like 50x or 10,000 lbs earn milestone certificates (emailed).
  • What's the difference between titles like CRP, XRP, ERP? These refer to Certified, Expert, and Elite titles. Each surface (Rails, Wheels, Snow) has its own levels.
Junior Handlers
  • Can kids compete? Yes! Ages 5–18 may enter junior classes and still earn full titles and points for their dog.
  • Are there scholarships? Yes. $1 per pull goes into a fund. Seniors can submit essays to compete for the annual scholarship.