They are the masters of chaos, the four-legged “editors” who rewrite the training plan before the ink is even dry. These canine masterminds stay a step ahead, turning a “stay” into a negotiation and a dishwasher into their personal lounge. We adore them, but they are the dogs that make us think way too hard. In their world, they’re not breaking the rules—they’re simply improving them. This is exactly why early training, as emphasized by the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors is so vital for raising a youngster into a “civilized” family member.
We are delighted to welcome back the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) which has fittingly chosen as their challenge theme, “”Making Trainers Think Too Hard.”
NADOI’s mission has been to recognize and certify dog training instructors of the highest caliber; to provide continuing education and learning resources to those instructors; and to promote humane, diverse and effective training methods and competent instruction.
The challenge: Our judges will be looking for the clearest—and most creatively captured—example of a dog who is obviously “making their trainer think way too hard.”
The prize: $100 VISA Cash Card 
The Sponsor: The National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, Inc.
The Dreaded Small Print You Must Read To Enter
•••• This contest happens on May 1 on our Facebook page. It is open internationally;
•••• One entry per person; You may enter four different photo challenges,
•••• When submitting your photo entry on Facebook, you must indicate the name of this contest, National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors’ “Making Trainers Think Too Hard” Photo Challenge;
•••• Your entry must be for the 2026 contest. Photos submitted from previous years’ contests will be disqualified, and yes, we remember photos from one year to the next;
•••• Within the photo, your image must include a purebred dog and one of the following either downloaded from the link or handmade:
The “Happy National Purebred D♥g Day” sign
The “I L♥ve My Purebred Dog” sign
Any official National Purebred Dog Day item available here.
•••• No photoshopping. Our judges, David Frei, co-host of NBC’s National Dog Show, and veteran photographer from Westminster Kennel Club, Jack Grassa, must see what you actually shot with your camera;
•••• Many people may help you take your photo, but the prize goes to the person submitting the winning photograph;
•••• Entering this contest implies consent that your photo may be shared on NPDD’s social media platforms and by the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, Inc.;
•••• A full explanation of how, when, and where to submit your entry can be read here;
•••• Important! You and your pup should have safe fun when composing your entry!
•••• Judges’ decisions are final
PhotoContest2026
Photo credit: NADOI member Jeanne Hampl