Ross McCarthy & Associates - London Dog Behaviourist

The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme

Since the launch of the Kennel Club's nation-wide training programme in 1992 for dogs and their owners, the Good Citizen Dog Scheme has become an outstanding success.

Over 52,000 dogs have successfully passed the test which is administered through 1,050 training organisations.

The Scheme brings together simple exercises such as basic dog training, grooming, exercise, diet, cleaning up after the dog and general healthcare. All dogs are eligible for Good Citizen training, be they pedigree or cross-breed, young or old.

The Scheme which is not competitive incorporates four awards - BRONZE, SILVER, GOLD and Puppy Foundation Assesment. Each level involves a gradual development in our understanding of dogs.

A trained dog is a happy dog and remember, you can teach an old dog new tricks!
Dog owners also have an obligation to their community and participants will be guided on the joys of responsible dog ownership. The course is straightforward and non-competitive and on successful completion of each of the tests, participants will be awarded a Certificate to mark their achievement and a rosette on completion of the Bronze Award.

Bronze Award

This award aims to produce a dog that will walk and sit in a controlled manner on the lead, will lie down on command, will allow its owner to clean and groom it and inspect it. The dog must also be able to be positioned by its owner for examination ie: stand, sit, lie down on either side or on its back, all on a lead. Finally the dog must come to hand when called.

Aim
The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme Bronze Award aims to produce a dog that will walk and behave in a controlled manner on the lead, will stay in one position on command, will allow its owner to clean, groom and inspect it. The dog must also be able to be positioned by its handler for inspection i.e. stand, sit or lie down on either side or on its back, all on lead. The dog must come to hand when called. The Bronze award aims to provide the handlers with a basic knowledge of understanding and training their canine companion.

Eligibility
The Scheme is aimed at all dogs whether Kennel Club registered or not, there is no age limit. For the Bronze Test, dogs are not required to have completed the Puppy Foundation Assessment programme. Handlers must show that they have means of cleaning up after their dog and that it has proper identification.

Standard Required
The test is non competitive but examiners should be satisfied that dogs are worthy of passing. Examiners should also observe the spirit of the Scheme, which is to produce happy, contented dogs, which are well behaved, and under the control of handlers who fully understand the responsibilities to their dogs, to their neighbours and to the community. A Certificate will be awarded when the required standard has been achieved.
Any uncontrolled, mouthing, barking, growling or other threatening behaviour is not acceptable and further training will be required before the dog can be passed. In order that it be meaningful the testing must be carried out rigorously. Emphasis must be placed upon the ability of the handler to handle, care for and generally be responsible for their dog.

The Test
Dogs may be tested singly or in groups. Those ‘passing’ all parts of the test will receive a Good Citizen Dog Scheme Bronze Test Certificate. The examiner will enter the comment “Passed” or “Not Ready” alongside each exercise. In order to receive a Certificate, dogs must receive the comment “Passed” for each exercise at one session.
The organising society will be responsible for appointing an examiner for the test, (see criteria below), however the examiner appointed should not have been involved in the training of any of the students. The organising Society must be confident the examiner is able to fulfil the task proficiently.
The final test is to be arranged by a Kennel Club approved organisation and the examiner will meet the following criteria:

a) Dog Warden (someone that has a good understanding of dog training and the Scheme criteria)
b) Recognised Kennel Club Judge i.e. someone who judges at KC Licensed events on a regular basis - open or championship show level in Obedience, Agility, Working Trials and Breed Shows. Field Trials (Panel Judges) and Gundog Working Test judges who have handled and trained dogs to gain Field Trial or Gundog Working Test awards.’
c) Member of the British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers (Associate or Full member, Graduate or Advanced grade. Also First Grade instructors with three years training experience, obtained prior to the 1/1/2003)
d) Police or Service Dog Handler (one that has a good understanding of dog training and the Scheme criteria)
e) Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme Approved Examiner – Someone who fulfils the KCGCDS criteria and who has passed a GCDS Examiner Assessment course.

Description of Exercises

1. CLEANLINESS AND IDENTIFICATION
Each handler must carry with them some form of “poop scoop” and all dogs must wear a collar and identification tag. The owner should be reminded that they must always remove any fouling caused by their dog and carry with them some form of "poop scoop". Note: These essentials are part of the law.

2. COLLAR AND LEAD
Put on collar and lead. It is important that the collar and lead are suitable for type of dog and that the owner is able to fit them correctly. Note: A dog that becomes frightened can back out of a loose collar.

3. WALK ON LEAD
Walk on lead without distractions. The owner will be holding the lead with the dog by their side throughout this section. The dog should walk at the handler’s side without undue pulling forward or back. Note: Competition heelwork is not the aim.

4. CONTROL AT DOOR/GATE
Walk on lead through Door/Gate. The owner will hold the lead and with the dog under control walk the dog through gate/doorway. Note: The objectives of exercise three also apply. The dog should not pull or be pulled through the doorway.

5. CONTROLLED WALK AMONGST PEOPLE AND DOGS
Walk on lead passing people and dogs. Behave in controlled manner whilst owner holds a conversation for one minute. The dog must be able to stand, sit or lie down in a quiet relaxed manner whilst the owner is holding a conversation for one minute. Note: The objectives of exercise three also apply. This is not a stay exercise.

6. STAY ON LEAD FOR ONE MINUTE
Stay in one position on command, on lead. The handler should place the dog with the lead attached in a position of their choice i.e. stand, sit or down. Upon instruction, having quietly dropped the lead on the ground next to the dog, the handler will move a distance of five paces away for a period of one minute. Note: The dog must stay in the position it has been left in, however minor movements within that position are acceptable. Extra commands are permitted but should not be excessive.

7. GROOM
Grooming should be performed relevant to the individual dog. Note: This exercise is a test of ability to keep the dog clean and healthy without a struggle. Handlers are required to provide their own grooming equipment. Any signs of aggression or nervousness while grooming the dog will be deemed not ready.

8. PRESENT FOR EXAMINATION
The examiner will be shown how a handler can examine their own dog. This exercise will be carried out on lead. The dog will be required to have its mouth, teeth, throat, eyes, ears and feet inspected when standing, sitting or lying down on either side or on its back. Note: This is a most important exercise and will require considerable care, expertise and patience on the part of the trainer. The average new owner may find this exercise difficult and frustrating. However, by ensuring that dogs are properly socialised before attempting this exercise and that this exercise is only carried out under careful supervision will success be achieved.

9. RETURN TO HANDLER
The handler will release the dog from lead, play with or without toy, or in some other way distance themselves from their dog, recall and attach lead. The aim is to enable the handler to call the dog to them when released within a restricted area, i.e. home or garden. There will be no requirement for the dog to sit, the handler will simply attach the lead to the collar. Note: The handler is to be advised not to let the dog run uncontrolled in open spaces such as woods, parks and farmland.

10. RESPONSIBILITY AND CARE
The object of this exercise is to test the knowledge of the handler on specific subjects relating to owning a dog. When asked questions by the examiner from the Responsibility and Care numbered list section one only. Topics include – A dog’s needs, Illness and Responsibilities of Ownership. The questions should not be phrased in an ambiguous manner and where necessary, examiners should rephrase the same question in an attempt to bring out the correct answer from the handler. At the start of each training course, in addition to the description, handlers should be given a copy of the canine code and Responsibility & Care sheet. There should be a discussion period during which the importance of correct socialisation can be explained, problems discussed and advice given on choosing a suitable collar, identity disc and lead. Note: Only one numbered item may constitute a question. The handler should be able to give three out of six correct answers from Section One of the Responsibility and Care Information Sheet.

Where can I find out about my local course?
Puppy Foundation courses will be run through Kennel Club Registered Dog Training Clubs, Kennel Club Listed Training Clubs, Adult Education Centres and Veterinary Practices approved by The kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme.
Details of your local course can be found by contacting the GCDS on telephone number 020 7518 1011 or by email on gcds@the-kennel-club.org.uk. Please include your full name and address when requesting information because packs are posted to you.

Silver Award

For the Silver Award examiners will only accept dogs that have already been awarded a Bronze Award Certificate, that have proper means of identification and, whose handlers can show their means of cleaning up after their dog.

Play with the dog
The object is to demonstrate that the dog will play with its handler. Play adds an extra dimension to a dog's life and can be used to make training fun.
Road walk
The object is to test the ability of the dog to walk on lead under control.
Rejoin the handler
The object is for the dog to remain steady while the handler leaves but the dog will rejoin when instructed to do so.
Stay in one place
The object is that the dog will stay on the spot while the handler moves away for 2 minutes. The handler should remain in sight.
Vehicle control
The object is for the handler to get the dog in and out of a vehicle in a controlled manner. The dog should remain quiet, relaxed and under control during the exercise.
Come away from distractions
The object is for the handler to remain in control of their dog when there are distractions.
Controlled greeting
The object is to demonstrate that the dog will not jump up. Should this happen, the handler must be able to successfully instruct the dog to cease.
Food manners
The object is for the dog to have good manners when aware of peoples' food.
Examination of the dog
The object is to demonstrate that the dog will allow inspection of its body by a stranger as might be undertaken by a veterinary surgeon.
Responsibility and care
The object is to test the knowledge of the handler on this subject.
After successful completion of the Silver Award, awardees can purchase a Silver Good Citizen Dog Scheme Tag.

Gold Award

Aim
The Kennel Club Good Citizen Gold Award is the highest level of Good Citizenship and builds upon the skills learned in the Silver Award. The Gold Award is a natural progression of practical dog training skills and introduces new concepts such as Relaxed Isolation, Stop the Dog and Send the Dog to Bed exercises, which are important in everyday life situations. The Gold Award aims to provide handlers with a greater knowledge of understanding their canine companion.

Eligibility
The Scheme is aimed at all dogs whether Kennel Club registered or not, there is no age limit. For the Gold Test examiners will only accept dogs that have already been awarded a Silver Award Test Certificate. Handlers must show that they have means of cleaning up after their dog and that it has proper identification.

Standard Required
The test is non-competitive but examiners should be satisfied that dogs are worthy of passing. Examiners should observe the spirit of the Scheme, which is to produce happy, contented dogs, which are well behaved, and under the control of handlers who fully understand the responsibilities to their dogs, to their neighbours and to the community. A certificate will be awarded when the required standard has been achieved.
Any uncontrolled, mouthing, barking, growling or other threatening behaviour is not acceptable and further training will be required before the dog can be passed. In order that it be meaningful the testing must be carried out rigorously. Emphasis must be placed upon the ability of the handler to handle, care for and generally be responsible for their dog.

The Test
Dogs may be tested singly or in groups. Those ‘passing’ all parts of the test will receive a Good Citizen Dog Scheme Gold Test Certificate. The examiner will enter the comment “Passed” or “Not Ready” alongside each exercise. In order to receive a certificate, dogs must receive the comment “Passed” for each Exercise at one session.
The organising society will be responsible for appointing an examiner for the test, (see criteria below), however the examiner appointed should not have been involved in the training of any of the students. The organising Society must be confident the examiner is able to fulfil the task proficiently.

The final test is to be arranged by a Kennel Club approved organisation and the examiner will meet the following criteria:

Description of Exercises

1. ROAD WALK
The object is to test the ability of the dog to walk on lead under control beside the handler and for the handler to determine the speed of the walk. This exercise should be carried out at a suitable outdoor location and an occasional tight lead will be acceptable. The handler and dog should walk along a pavement, execute a turn, then stop at the kerb where the dog should remain steady and controlled. On command they should proceed, observing the Highway Code. When reaching the other side they should turn and continue walking making a few changes of pace from normal to slow or fast walking pace. The handler and dog will return across the road to the starting point of the exercise. Distractions should be incorporated such as passing vehicles or bicycles, people, wheelchairs, prams, pushchairs, etc. Note: The turns are only tests of ability to change direction.

2. RETURN TO HANDLER’S SIDE
The object is to be able to bring the dog back under close control during a lead free walk. With the dog off lead and not less than 10 paces away, upon instruction, the dog will be called back to the walking handlers side and both should continue together for approximately ten paces. Note: The dog moving loosely at the handler’s side, but under control, is quite acceptable and there should not be a halt to complete the exercise.

3. WALK FREE BESIDE HANDLER
The object is for the dog to be kept close to the handler’s side as may be necessary on a walk in the park. This is not heelwork but a test of control while walking with a dog off lead beside its handler for approximately 40 paces. Therefore, it is only necessary for the dog to be kept loosely beside the handler. Two changes of direction will take place and there will be the distraction of another handler passing with a dog on lead. Upon instruction the dog will be placed on lead as a finish to the test. Note: Changes of direction are right and left turns without formality.

4. STAY DOWN IN ONE PLACE
The object is that the dog will stay down on the spot while the handler moves away for two minutes both in and out of sight. This stay will be tested off lead and handlers should place their dogs in the down position. During the test the handler will be asked to move out of sight for approximately half a minute. While in sight handlers will be approximately ten paces away from their dog. Note: This exercise is a test to see if the dogs will stay down in one place without changing position.

5. SEND THE DOG TO BED
The object is to demonstrate control such as might be required in the home. The handler may provide the dog’s bed, blanket, mat, or an article of clothing etc. The handler should place the dog’s bed in a position determined by the examiner. The handler will stand approximately ten paces from the bed. Upon instruction, the handler will send the dog to bed where the dog will remain until the examiner is satisfied the dog is settled. Note: The dog is not being sent to bed in disgrace. Where possible this exercise should be tested indoors. The bed used should be suitable to the dog under test and no inducement e.g. toys or food should be used during this exercise.

6. STOP THE DOG
The object is for the handler to stop the dog at a distance in an emergency situation. With the dog off lead and at a distance not less than approximately ten paces away the handler will be instructed to stop the dog on the spot in any position. Note: The dog is expected to respond straight away to the stop command but if moving at speed, will be allowed a reasonable distance to come to a stop.

7. RELAXED ISOLATION
The object is for the dog to be content when left in isolation. During such times the dog should not become agitated, unduly stressed or defensive. The handler should fasten the dog to an approximate two metre line and then move out of sight for between two-five minutes as directed. Alternatively the dog may be left in a room on its own providing undetected observation can take place. Examiners should choose appropriate venues when conducting this exercise. Any number of dogs may be tested at the same time provided they are isolated at different locations. It is acceptable for the dog to move around during isolation, however should the dog whine, howl, bark, or indulge in any disruptive activities it may not pass this exercise. Note: Dogs should be tested for their relaxed demeanour in isolation without any prior controls being imposed by the handler. This is not a stay exercise but handlers may settle their dogs before leaving. This is a practical test and no inducement e.g. blankets, toys or food should be used during this exercise.

8. FOOD MANNERS
The object is for the dog to be fed in an orderly manner. The handler will offer food to the dog either by hand or in a bowl. The dog must wait for permission to eat. After a three-five second pause, the handler will be asked to give the dog an eating command. Note: The dog should not eat until given permission, however if attempting to do so, it is acceptable for the handler to restrain the dog by voice alone.

9. EXAMINATION OF THE DOG
The object is to demonstrate that the dog will allow inspection of its body by a stranger as might be undertaken by a veterinary surgeon. The dog on lead will be required to be placed for inspection of mouth, teeth, throat, eyes, ears and feet when standing, sitting or lying down as required. Other than mild avoidance, the dog should allow inspection without concern. Note: It is the responsibility of training officials to ensure that only suitable dogs take part in this exercise.

10. RESPONSIBILITY AND CARE
The object is to test the knowledge of the handler on this subject. When asked questions by the examiner from the Responsibility and Care numbered list Sections two and three only. Topics covered include;- Other Responsibilities, Children, Barking, Dogs and Stationary Vehicles, Vehicle Travel, Health, Worming, The Country Code, Miscellaneous, Frightening, Out of Control, Biting and Psychology of learning. The questions should not be phrased in an ambiguous manner and where necessary, examiners should rephrase the same question in an attempt to bring out the correct answer from the handler. At the start of each training course, in addition to the description, handlers should be given a copy of the Responsibility and Care sheet. Note: Only one numbered item may constitute a question. The handler should be able to give eight out of ten correct answers from Section Two and Three only of the Responsibility and Care Information Sheet. GCDS/06/03

Information and Training Standards taken from the Kennel Club Website (www.thekennelclub.org.uk)

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