We are proud to have been recognised as an approved Royal Kennel Club listed training club.  As such, we can now deliver Good Citizen Dog Training.  The training delivered will be in line with the positive, reward-based training ethos of the Royal Kennel Club and will work towards your achievement of the Bronze Good Citizen Award. This award proudly acclaims your dog to be qualified to the Bronze level requirements.

“Extra” information just for Show Dogs – if you don’t show, ignore this bit!

This award also permits the holder to enter Championship dog show classes in the Good Citizen Dog section.  Only dogs who have achieved their Bronze award or higher are permitted to enter that particular class at a show, so if you already show your dog in breed classes, this will be an extra class you will be eligible for.  As with all RKC dog shows, only dogs who are RKC registered are able to compete in the GCD class. (If you would like further information on showing your dog, please get in touch with Kerry@Rhodes2Safety.co.uk).

What the training covers

The Good Citizen Dog Training scheme is open to all dogs, young or old, pedigree or crossbreed. Dogs do not need to be registered with The Royal Kennel Club to take part in Good Citizen Training.  Dog owners of any fitness level, or with any disability, can take part in our Good Citizen Dog Training scheme. It’s non-competitive and emphasis is placed on achievement.

The Bronze Award is available for any age of dog.  The training you will be taught will cover many techniques (not just those needed for the exam) as well as equipping your with the specific skills they will need to pass their award, an exam which will be conducted by an outside examiner.  The skills that will be assessed during the examination are:

• Ensuring your dog’s equipment is sound, legal and fit for purpose
• How to walk calmly on a loose lead
• How to pass through doorways and gates under close control
• How to walk calmly among people and dogs while
• How to ensure your dog is calm while engaging in conversation as you would in the street
• How to perform a “stay” for at least one minute without moving
• Ensuring your dog will allow you to groom him/her without reacting negatively
• Ensuring your dog will allow you to examine all parts of his anatomy
• Recalling your dog to be placed back on a lead
• General knowledge/understanding of your responsibilities and care role as a dog guardian

Where to find full information on the Good Citizen Dog Award Scheme

The scheme promotes responsible dog ownership by teaching owners to train their dog for everyday life situations through four award levels – Puppy Foundation, Bronze, Silver and Gold.  To read the full Royal Kennel Club information article, click here

• Good Citizen Classes will run at 7pm on a Tuesday evening for 6 weeks per block.
• Payment for each block to secure your place is payable in advance.  Weeks ARE NOT able to be paid for separately as each block will follow a curriculum which builds on the training week-on-week.
• Any missed weeks that students are unable to attend will not be refunded.
• When enough students are ready to take their test, an outside examiner will be contacted and a test evening booked.  Tests are FREE to attend and you will be entered when your Trainer feels you are ready to achieve the target level.
• You will be able to purchase rosettes/certificates directly from the RKC when your dog passes, should you wish to commemorate your dog’s achievement.
• Bring your happy face and enthusiastic demeanour – training should be fun and I guarantee you’ll get so much more from your furry companion if you are both loving it!  No harsh handling will be permitted.

DATES FOR BRONZE BLOCK ONE – Tuesdays @ 7pm

7th July
14th July
21st July
28th July
4th August
11th August

What should I bring?  Treats …. lots and lots of tiny high value yummy treats of different types that your dog will work for.
Should I bring toys?  If your dog is toy-driven, then bring his favourite toy as his reward/reinforcer.
Should I bring a bed/blanket?  Yes, a blanket or piece of vet bed will mark your personal area.
Do I need to bring a water bowl?  Water is available but please bring your own bowl to avoid cross contamination.
Do I need poo bags?  Yes, always have poo bags with you (that includes in the actual show ring too) … you just never know when they’ll do it.
Do I need a chair?  We envisage you standing and working with your dog throughout the entire hour.  If you feel you will need to sit down, then please do bring your own chair as there is only one bench and a couple of plastic chairs within the barn.

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