The Kennel Club have a programme called the Good Citizens Dog Scheme. There are a series of tests you can take in levels of Bronze, Silver and Gold as well as a Puppy Foundation Assessment. The tests involve various basic obedience commands which demonstrate control with your dog, socialization and there are also general knowledge questions about dog ownership.
Dixie and Leroy were our first Poms to pass the Bronze test, they did so together at SKC in August 2004 and went on to become the first Poms to compete in the breed Good Citizen class at Crufts '05. Please note that in order to participate in a Good Citizen's Breed class at Crufts, the dog also has to qualify in the normal manner in addition to passing the Bronze test or higher.
Since then Rocky and Teddi have passed the Bronze test and Teddi has recently passed the Silver.
Poms enjoy the challenges of basic obedience and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable activity to do with their dog. Also, if you'd like to try other Canine sports such as Agility, this scheme is an excellent starting point.
To read about other successful Pom Good Citizens visit Pat from Playalong Poms website - she has many graduates from this scheme. Here is a link : Playalong Poms
You can also find information about the tests and what is required on the KC website.
Teddi - Silver Good Citizen
