Have you and your dog become couch potatoes?

Have you and your dog become couch potatoes? Are you ready to get out and get moving? Lucky you! There are so many things to do with your new BFF that will bring a new level of satisfaction to the relationship.

Today, we want to focus on two awesome programs for you to consider. If you just got your puppy, the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program might be the answer to the question you didn’t know you had. And then Canine Good Citizen is the next step in turning your wild child into the perfectly mannered companion.

Who is going to train my dog?? YOU CAN!!!

Completing the 6 week S.T.A.R. Puppy class and passing the evaluation before your pup is one year old, allows enrollment in the program and earns them a certificate and other swag. The beautiful thing about this program is that it is open to purebred and mixed breed dogs. You know why? Because all dogs deserve training!!

Check out this website to find the class nearest you.

The other cool component of this training is the Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge. Making sure you are being the best pet parent you can be will lead you to the most fulfilling life with your fur baby.

If you adopt a dog over the age of 1 year or you are just late to the training party, you are still eligible in most cases to take the class. The basics you learn will be worth the trouble.

Now, onto Canine Good Citizen…

AKC Canine Good Citizen certification requires a test of 10 skills you can teach your dog yourself, work with a trainer, or learn in a class. Tests are given at the end of the class series. If you or a professional train your dog, simply find an evaluator and schedule the test. While reading through the AKC website, I learned that many “un-insurable” dog breeds become insurable with the CGC certificate. Apartment buildings and rental companies may require the training before allowing a renter to have a dog – I had no idea. Did I mention that passing the test also provides your pup with a TITLE??? I mean, how cool is that? I am no longer the owner of Daisy Daniels. I now own Miss Daisy Daniels, CGC. (OK, I added the “Miss”. And she does not actually have her CGC yet. I was just trying it on for size. But it felt good!)