Raising a Well Mannered Mutt

By Sallie Palmer
Certified Dog Trainer

STAR PUPPY PROGRAM

In an attempt to promote responsible dog ownership, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has launched the STAR puppy program. This exciting program could not come at a better time. Properly caring for our furry pals isn’t as easy as it first appears. Responsible pet ownership needs to be encouraged and what better way then to start with a puppy. So what does this program entail? Here is a brief synopsis.

The owner-puppy team is required to attend a six week puppy or basic dog training class taught by an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. Perfect attendance is a must. During the class the puppy will be observed for signs of aggression towards people or other dogs. This type of behavior would be considered unacceptable. Upon completion of the six week course the owner will be invited to sign a ‘Responsible dog owner’s pledge and take a ‘pre-canine good citizen behavior’ test. After the testing, the owner will be enrolled in the AKC STAR puppy program. A puppy medal along with a certificate of accomplishment will be sent to the owner. The puppy’s information of passing the test will be officially recorder with the AKC. Valuable resources and discounts will also be available. Ongoing email news letters with training tips and up-to-date information plus other dog related material will be sent to the owner monthly. Any dog under a year of age is encouraged to enroll. All breeds and mix breeds are welcome.

What does the pledge and test consist of? STAR stands for Socialization, Training, Activities and Responsibility. The owner is required to sign a pledge stating that she will provide a life time of health care, nutrition, grooming, play and exercise for the puppy. In addition the owner will ensure that the puppy will not infringe on the rights of others by roaming loose, constantly barking and to clean up after the dog.

The puppy training portion of the test includes being hugged by his owner, have a toy taken away from him, let another person pet him, endure a brief physical exam, walk on leash without pulling, walk by other people, sit and down on command, and come when called.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could get every dog owner to sign a STAR pledge and take their dog to training? I believe we would see less dogs ending up in shelters and less dog related problems. I hope people will look into participating with the STAR puppy program.

Anyone interested in more information concerning the STAR puppy program are encouraged to log onto www.akc.org or contact starpuppy@akc.org

 

Sallie is a Certified Dog Trainer with the International association for Canine professionals. She is a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and has been involved with AKC Canine Good Citizen program since 1998. For more information about Sallie or a list of services she offers contact www.wellmanneredmutts.net.

 

 

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