I'm so proud tonight - Jenny and Star passed their Bronze Good Citizen award tonight. They came home with a certificate and a rosette, and a feeling of achievement. This scheme is run by most Kennel Clubs around the world, so wherever you live, check out if your KC offer the awards. There are three levels - Bronze, Silver and Gold - and each level is an eight week course. You can take each level again, if you don't quite make it the first time.
What I like about the scheme is it teaches useful things that you can use in everyday life. Your dog is required to walk without pulling, display proper food manners, and enter and exit a vehicle in a controlled manner. They must be able to mix with dogs and people happily, and the owner is reminded of her/his responsibilities.
It's been fascinating to see how Star reacted to her first formal training, and how focused on Jenny she is. They are a great partnership and they deserve the success they've had. Other dogs in the class included a Labradoodle, a Jack Russell terrier, a Boxer and a Whippet. They were a varied bunch with different backgrounds and ages, and they all made excellent progress. The classes are a great way to develop and strengthen your bond with your dog, and it's never to late to start - Buddy was five when he started last year.
Jenny and Star start their silver course in a fortnight's time, so fingers crossed.
Take care,
Julie x