NCNC "Building Blocks for Beginners" Water Workshop

NCNC is excited to offer a "Building Blocks for Beginners"  Water Workshop for NCNC Members and Non-Members, who are interested in doing water work with their dog.  This workshop is open to ALL BREEDS and is a great precursor for teams who are interested in testing at the NCNC Beginner Water Test at the NCNC Water Test on Sept 20-21, 2025.

This Workshop if for HANDLERS AND DOGS and will include:

• Overview of the Beginner Water Dog Test.

• Demonstration of the exercises that will be part of the Beginner Water Test, a non-NCA test, which will be held on Saturday, Sept 21st at the NCNC Water Test.
• Water time for all teams to try out the exercises with seasoned water handlers.

• Land-based foundational skills to practice as you prepare for exercises in the water.

This workshop will include land and water exercises. As exercises are reviewed, dogs will have crate time so please bring a sturdy wire crate.  There is no shade at this location so it's recommended to bring a tent and plenty of water for you and your dog.  Dogs should be leashed at all times (no retractables) when not in the crate and be well behaved around other dogs and humans.   

Lunch and water will be provided which is part of the event cost.  Lunch ordering details will be sent to you approximately a week before the event. 

Event Location: This event will be held at Lake Andrea in Pleasant Prairie, WI.  

What to Bring: 

• Lots of high value dog treats
• Chair
• Dog crate with adequate ventilation (dogs can not be in cars)
• Water (for humans & dogs)
• USCGA life jacket for you (required for all water work)
• Water shoes
• A bumper to retrieve in the water
• A long line that can be attached to the dog's collar (longer than a 6ft leash).  We will have some to borrow if you don't have one.
• We will have water test equipment and some dog life jackets to borrow for the day, if needed.

We welcome NCNC and non-NCNC members and dogs of all breeds.

Beginner Water Test 2025 Exercises: 

NCNC Beginner Water Test Exercises 2025.pdf

QUESTIONS OR NEED MORE INFO? Send an email to Darlene or Liz.  

Darlene Rattner (ddrattner1@gmail.com) or Liz Pagel (ms.liz_pagel@yahoo.com).