The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme was established in 1992 and is the largest and most recognised dog training programme in the UK. The classes we run are open to all dogs, young or old, pedigree or crossbreed and dogs do not need to be registered with The Kennel Club to take part.

The scheme promotes responsible dog ownership by teaching owners to train their dog for everyday life situations.
 

There are four award levels: 

 Puppy Foundation    } 
 Bronze                            }  opens a
 Silver                               }  new page
 Gold                                 }

How it works;

Our Good Citizen classes are held every Sunday afternoon and are fun and enjoyable for you and your dog.  We are a non-profit making Club so we are able to keep our training fees low.   View our classes and class fees.

Dogs and owners of any fitness level or disability can take part.  The scheme is non-competitive and the exercises in each of the levels aim for you and your dog to develop into ‘good citizens’.

We are happy to accept dogs of any breed and age after they've completed their vaccinations. 

We will ask to see your dog's vaccination records when you bring your dog along for the first time and annually thereafter.

Dogs must be micro-chipped, wear a collar and lead and have a legally compliant identification tag.  Harnesses and head collars are also permitted, in addition to the collar and lead.  Other items such as a toy, some treats, grooming brush, settle mat and drying towel are just some of the items that you may need to bring.

The Tests

Progression to the next level is at the discretion of our trainers* and Bronze, Silver and Gold level tests are conducted by an eligible examiner approved by the Kennel Club (this is to ensure compliance with the Kennel Club standards and impartiality).

*Dog and handler combinations must attend a minimum of 6 training classes with us to be eligible for testing.

Each dog and handler who passes is issued with a Good Citizen Dog Training scheme Certificate and Rosette (applicable to the award level).  A range of Kennel Club Good Citizen merchandise is also available for successful participants to purchase from the Kennel Club online shop.  Upon completion of any test (whether ‘successful’ or ‘not ready’) your participation within the scheme will be formally registered with the Kennel Club.

Refreshments

To extend your good citizen training, you and your dog can go in the Village Hall after training for a well-earned cuppa and socialising.

More information?

If you have any questions or would like any further information about our Kennel Club Good Citizen Classes please contact our Good Citizen Lead Trainer: Louise

Remember no questions are silly questions, we’re here to help you and your dog.