The Chinook Owners Association (COA) Active Chinook Program (ACP) encourages owners to engage in activities with their Chinooks that honor the traditional working nature of the breed, display the versatility of Chinook dogs, and strengthen the bond between dogs and people. The program will provide certification to participating dogs and their owners to recognize accomplishments in those pursuits. Participation in the ACP is open to Chinook or Chinook Breed Conservation Program (CBCP) dogs registered with the United Kennel Club (UKC) or the COA. The three primary groups of ACP Titles include: Draft, Temperament, and Titled Events. In addition, Chinooks who have made a considerable contribution to the breed can receive COA Titles of Merit.

Temperament

Interested in starting out right with your new Chinook or trying something new with your seasoned companion? This group of titles encourages owners to engage in training and activities with their dogs that are fun, display the good nature of the breed, and maybe even provide some rewarding contributions to their community.

Draft

Ever go hiking with your Chinook? We thought so. The most common way Chinook owners get started in the ACP is by strapping a pack onto their Chinook and exploring nature together. You can also get awards for sledding (including rigging and bikejoring for those of us without snow), skijoring, carting, and weight pull.

Titled Events

Into more competitive events? Want to show off the versatility of your Chinook dog? This group is for Chinooks that compete in UKC working dog events like Agility, Conformation, Dock Jumping, Obedience, or Rally Obedience. Several other nationally or internationally recognized event titles may also apply. Chinooks that successfully compete in events spanning multiple activities can earn advanced versatility titles.

In some documents, past Chinook Quarterly issues and historical postings displayed on the COA website you will see the Active Chinook Program referred to as the Working Dog Program. The title of the program was changed in 2023 to better reflect an expansion of the program beyond working dog activities. The term "Working Dog Program (WDP)" is synonymous with the term "Active Chinook Program (ACP)."