Getting a new puppy is such an exciting adventure. At this young age they’re so full of potential, and they’re also hard work! After picking your perfect puppy from a [breeder], shelter, or rescue, you want to be sure you’re doing all you can for it. At our [Harmony School], we are focused on getting your puppy the best start in life by taking advantage of the critical socialization period in young puppies. Throughout the day at Harmony School, puppies alternate between training, solo and interactive play, learning appropriate chewing behaviors, potty training, and crate/independence training. This intensive training experience doesn’t just teach basic obedience, it teaches your dog how to learn, how to focus on their humans, and gives them exposure to different people, dogs, textures, sounds, and surfaces so that they have the [socialization] that they need to approach the world around them with confidence and positivity.
A solid foundation of training at a young age is widely recognized as one of the best ways to set your puppy up to succeed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has a puppy program dedicated to recognizing the young puppies and their owners for committing to this important training at an early age. Everything that is required in the AKC S.T.A.R (Socialization, Training, Activity, and Responsibility) program is already a part of the extensive training provided by Harmony School, and it is our pleasure to announce that we will now be administering AKC S.T.A.R Puppy tests as part of our Harmony School graduation.
What is AKC S.T.A.R Puppy?
The AKC S.T.A.R Puppy program is open to all dogs, purebred or mixed breed, and its purpose is to make sure your puppy gets a great start to the world. The program covers some basic steps that you should be taking in order to prepare your puppy for a happy and well-mannered adulthood.
After a minimum of six lessons, your puppy is eligible to take the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy test. When you and your puppy pass, you will receive an application to enroll in the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Program. After you register your S.T.A.R Puppy in the AKC program, you will receive the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Medal and be listed in the AKC records. You’re also provided with a puppy pack that includes a frameable certificate, the digital version of the AKC New Puppy Guide, and a monthly newsletter with training tips.
To be eligible for the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Program test you must:
· Be enrolled in Harmony School
· Have an [AKC Registration Number] or [Canine Partners Registration]
· Take the [AKC Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge]
Becoming a Canine Good Citizen
Puppies who complete the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy test will have the foundation they need to work toward becoming a Canine Good Citizen. The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is “the gold standard for polite dog behavior and a fantastic head start for the fun and exciting world of dog sports.”
Dogs In Harmony will now be providing AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluations periodically, or by appointment to meet the needs of our students. This program focuses on the basics of good manners and obedience, as well as the values of responsible pet ownership and strengthening the bond between you and your dog at home and in the community.
Beyond the bonding, there are practical benefits to CGC training, too. Not only will you and your dog understand the basics of dog training, and master skills like sit, down and stay, but you’ll know your dog will be able to handle herself with grace in a crowd and be a welcomed client at the vet or groomer. The CGC title is also a prerequisite for many therapy dog certifications, as well as a great introduction to more advanced dog sports and activities. Some homeowners’ insurance programs even offer discounts for CGC dogs, and an increasing number of apartments and condos see CGC awards as a major bonus for becoming a resident. Learn more about the AKC CGC program [here].
If you need a private appointment for a CGC Evaluation, or would like to know our evaluation schedule, please contact us at info@harmonydogs.net