Jake and Tempo have their day at dog agility champs

While most dog owners play fetch with their pooches, King's High School pupil Jake Remon has taken it a step further.

The 17-year-old excelled in the South Island secondary schools dog agility championships in Christchurch last weekend with his best friend, 3-year-old border collie Tempo.

The pair have been competing in dog agility events since she was 18 months old.

He had taught her skills such as jumping, going through tunnels and weaving.

"I probably first started training dogs when I was 4. It definitely runs in the family."

At the championships, Remon came first in the experienced jumpers, open handler agility and open handler jumps categories, and fourth in the experienced agility section.

This led to him being awarded top overall school at the event.

King's High School pupil Jake Remon excelled in the South Island secondary schools dog agility championships at the weekend. Photo / Peter McIntosh

Remon said the secret to his success was Tempo.

"It's all about the bond ... she's a bit of a weird one but I love her."

Remon grew up in a "dog family", and shared the family home with seven dogs.

"The dogs outnumber us."

Both of his parents competed, and he trained with Tempo about three times each week.

The pair compete in events through the Taieri Dog Training Club.

The next event will be the Waimakariri Dog Training Club's championships in Christchurch, on September 8.