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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Dog Brothers Martial Arts (DBMA Real Contact Stick Fighting), created by Marc "Crafty Dog" Denny in the USA, tests full-contact rattan stick fighting wearing fencing masks without body padding. The 5-level hierarchy (Pup to Council Dog) evaluates single/double stick, staff, takedowns, and stick grappling on the ground.

1st Level – Pup

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic rattan stick stances, head guard, and initial DBMA full-contact drills.

Symbolism & Meaning

Entry into Marc Denny's rough full-contact stick fighting system.

2nd Level – Candidate Dog

Candidate DogRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Participation in Gatherings of the Pack, double stick combat, and stick grappling.

Symbolism & Meaning

Testing courage and resilience with no points and no referee in the ring.

3rd Level – Full Dog (Pack Member)

Full DogRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full pack member with awarded Dog Name. Full-speed knife and stick combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Brotherhood recognition based on proven character and fighting heart.

4th Level – Fighting Dog

Fighting DogRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Over 50 Gathering fights completed. Local instruction and DBMA system evolution.

Symbolism & Meaning

Elite fighter capable of freely blending Kali, BJJ, and Krabi Krabong.

5th Level – Council Dog (Senior Instructor)

Council DogRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest instructor rank in the Dog Brothers Council. Managing international training.

Symbolism & Meaning

Council Dog = Founder & guardian of "Higher consciousness through harder contact".