An Australian Terrier named Maddie captured the attention – and accolades – of the judges for the American Kennel Club‘s Trick Dog Competition.
Australian Terrier Impresses Trick Dog Competition Judges
The little pup from Altoona, Wisconsin, and her handler, Muriel McMullen, won the fourth annual competition. Maddie’s act was inspired by Harry Potter, and involved the pooch pretending to be a witch.
In a video of the routine, the pup is seen on a spooky set, going through various challenges in order to fit in at “Dogwarts.” Her tricks included “reading” and following written commands, stacking cups, and traversing a balance beam. To top it all off, she made a magic potion with a wand.
In a press release, AKC Family Dog Director Mary Burch said that Maddie’s performance was “a joy to watch.”
“Maddie’s routine included advanced tricks such as walking backward on a beam, and she could perform tricks with her handler at a distance,” Burch continued. “Maddie’s eagerness and joy demonstrate the extraordinary bond that can result from training. AKC is so proud of the AKC Elite Performer Trick Dogs and their creative, highly skilled handlers.”
Standing Out From the Pack
Maddy apparently stood out among the 151 competitors from 35 states in the U.S. as well as Canada. The competition received the most entries ever to date, despite (or because of?) being held virtually. Every contestant submitted videos of their pup’s performance and three judges were tasked with choosing the finalists.
The runners-up included an All-American dog named Chloe, from Stafford, Virginia, who did a back-to-school-themed routine with handler Christina Jones, as well as a Biewer Terrier named Olivia Nicole, from Newnan, Georgia, who did a Jumaji-inspired performance with handler Tamara Shaffer.
“Working with your dog to learn tricks is an enjoyable activity that dog owners can do at any time and place that fits with their day,” Doug Ljungren, executive VP for sports and events, said in a press release. “It enriches your dog’s life, and the bond it develops is most rewarding.”
