The NAPD Revival Test Trial is an event hosted by the Arizona Protection Dog Club to revitalize the National Association of Protection Dogs (NAPD). This trial is a “test the water” event to gauge interest in protection dog sports. It includes an obedience phase and a protection phase, emphasizing courage and control.

The NAPD Revival Test Trial is scheduled for October 12, 2024, from 8 AM to 7 PM. It will be held at Willow Creek Park Field, located at 3181 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301.

The National Association of Protection Dogs (NAPD) was a non-profit organization that was originally formed by Sonny Henegar in 1994 and operated until 2002. At that time, it was the only American sport of its kind. Armor K9 in direct cooperation with Sonny is revitalizing NAPD in 2024 for protection dog enthusiasts to offer an alternative sport in which to compete. This revival trial will be a “test the water” event to determine the amount of interest and desire for this type of protection dog sport.

NAPD’s primary goals were then and are now to establish a “standard of performance” for all personal protection dogs, to educate the public about them while providing a fun and competitive arena where members may title their dogs.

Unlike other protection dog sports, NAPD trials are completely unannounced. Life is unpredictable, so is NAPD.

Our membership is open to any civilian or dog trainer who has the desire to train and trial their dogs in personal protection. Although officers of law enforcement agencies may also join, they may only be allowed to title their personal dogs.

The trials consist of two phases: an obedience phase and a protection phase. If the dog/handler team is disqualified from the obedience phase, the team may not compete in the protection phase. The protection phase consists of exercises emphasizing courage and control. These exercises are not announced until the morning of the competition.

•  NPL I: Competitors must attain a minimum of 70% for each phase in one NAPD sanctioned trial to qualify and must not have a zero score in any protection scenario.
• NPL II: Dog must be titled NPL I. Competitors must attain a minimum of 80% for each phase in two different NAPD sanctioned trials. A minimum of an 80% score must be achieved at each trial.
• NPL III: Dog must be titled NPL II. Competitors must attain a minimum score of 90% for each phase in three different NAPD sanctioned trials. A minimum of a 90% score must be achieved at each trial.

The National Association of Protection Dogs certifies all judges and trial decoys (“Bad Guys”) used in trials. They must successfully complete all requirements instituted by our National Technical Director, Sonny Henegar. Call us for more information on becoming a judge or a “Bad Guy”, 928-493-4160.