Most owner’s dream of having a dog that walks nicely on a lead, greets people politely and recalls in a timely fashion. That’s precisely what the Irish Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen Scheme is designed to achieve.

Whether you have a pedigree puppy or a beloved mixed breed, this test accepts dogs of every background.

What is the Canine Good Citizen Award?

The IKC Canine Good Citizen Scheme is a long established assessment process designed to educate owners, promote responsible dog ownership and to ensure that dogs are a respected part of the community.

Unlike traditional obedience competitions, the test evaluates real-world skills that make life easier and safer for both you and your dog. It focuses on:

  • Walking on a relaxed lead around everyday occurrences like joggers, dog walkers, etc.

  • Coming when called.

  • Sitting, laying down and staying on cue.

  • Basic handling for vet visits and routine grooming.

  • Demonstrating a responsible and safe approach to managing your dog in public spaces.

Did you know? Every dog is welcome! The scheme is open to dogs of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, including crossbreeds and mixed breeds.

Our Preparation Courses & In-House Testing

We are proud to offer dedicated preparation classes to guide you and your dog step-by-step through all the test elements. We also host independent qualified examiners to deliver the tests here in Cork.

The scheme progresses across four key levels:

  • Puppy Level: Focuses on early socialisation, responsiveness to name, basic positions and position changes and appropriate play habits.

  • Bronze Level: Covers many basics including walking on a lead, staying in the down position, safe handling, and recall.

  • Silver Level: Builds on the foundations with distractions off-lead, longer stays, food manners exercises and handling distractions.

  • Gold Level: Tests reliable off-lead responses, distance work, stopping your dog in motion and greetings and departures.

What to Bring to Bronze Class

To make sure you and your dog get the most out of every session, please bring the following equipment to each class:

Mandatory:

  • Flat Collar & Standard Lead: A comfortable flat collar with a standard lead between 1-2 metres in length.
  • Beds or Mats: Although not permitted during most of the tests, between lessons these offer your dog a place to rest.
  • ID Tag: Attached to your dog’s collar (containing legally required owner contact details).
  • Food: Small, easy-to-swallow treats your dog loves (like cooked chicken, cheese, or specialised training pâtés).
  • Water & Bowl: To prevent any germs from spreading we ask that you bring your dog’s own water and water bowl.
  • Two Toys: Bring two of your dog’s toys for play and work around distractions.
  • Grooming Tools: The specific brushes and combs you normally use for your dog’s coat type.
  • Poo Bags: Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

Optional:

  • Harness: Although not permitted for these tests they can be worn entering and exiting the training venue.

  • Clicker: For timing and marking behaviours accurately.

  • Enrichment Toys: To help your dog settle in class you can bring chews, snuffle-mats, lick-mats, etc.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Training for the Canine Good Citizen award is a rewarding experience that strengthens your bond with your dog while building life-long good habits.

Spaces for our upcoming Puppy, Bronze, Silver, and Gold prep courses fill up quickly.

[Click here to check our upcoming class schedule and secure your spot today!]

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