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Kennel
Club Good Citizens
We had our Kennel Club Good Citizens Bronze
test on Thursday 6th July where four dogs and handlers took
part, three passed and one was unfortunately not ready.
Congratulations to: Naomi with Layla, Jennifer with
Ferdie Gordon with Rosco.
We
held Silver
tests on Thursday 16th March where four dogs and handlers
took part, three passed and one was not ready.
Congratulations to; James with Sadie, Paula with
Jacko, Kim with Lexi. I would also like to express my
thanks to Sue Jillett for judging the Silver test.
Our Bronze test took place on Thursday 23rd March
where we had five passes with two who were sadly not ready.
I would like to congratulate the following who passed the
Bronze;
The Kennel Club have been updating the
Good Citizen Scheme information sheets and one of our
trainers noticed that one of the Gold exercises had been
updated. To ensure the information we provide on our website
is up to date and correct would it be possible to create
three links to the Scheme details on the Kennel Club Website
instead of having them “copied out” on our webpage. The link
for the three documents are as follows:
Bronze details :
gcdsbronze.pdf -
thekennelclub.org.uk
Silver details :
gcdssilver.pdf -
thekennelclub.org.uk
Gold details :
gcdsgold.pdf -
thekennelclub.org.uk
Further information on the tests please contact
Helen Sargent
01243 821533 or email: prizeflyer95@gmail.com
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The Good Citizens Tests are designed by the Kennel
Club to encourage owners to be responsible for their dogs and make both them and
their pets "Good Citizens". The dog and its owner are taught everyday common
sense ways of keeping a dog.
The Bronze test is very simple and consists of straight forward questions about
the care of the dog and the responsible way to train it. It includes walking
tidily in the street and not jumping up at people or other dogs and generally
behaving well in town or country. The Silver test may be taken once the Bronze
has been obtained and likewise the Gold once the Bronze and Silver have been
won. Obviously these tests increase in difficulty, but none are too arduous.
The Gold test does include some Advanced exercises, but we have people who are
only working in Novice obtaining their Gold. We do run two or three
"training" classes specifically for each test in the few weeks before the
test. Owners receive a Kennel Club rosette and certificate and we can send
away for a badge for each test at a small cost.
We think it is the duty of all dog owners to try and keep their pets happy and
healthy and to make them acceptable to people who may not normally like or
accept dogs. It is the "bad" dog owners who give the rest of us a bad name".
BRONZE TEST
Description of Exercises
Exercise 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 complying with the law. 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”. It is a legal requirement to inscribe
the name and the address of the owner on the collar or on a plate or disc
attached to it. Furthermore it is a legal requirement to clean up after your dog
in public areas and dispose of the bag in an appropriate bin. Notes: Even
if a dog is microchipped, you can be fined if your dog is not wearing the
correct Identification. Telephone numbers are not compulsory but can be very
helpful in returning your dog to you in an emergency. Engraved tags can be
purchased from the Kennel Club website.
Exercise 2 - Collar and Lead
The object of this exercise is that the handler learns how to put on and take
off the collar and lead safely. It is important that the collar and lead are
suitable for the type of dog and that the handler is able to fit them correctly. Note:
A dog that becomes frightened can back out of a loose collar.
Exercise 3 - Walk on Lead
The object of this exercise is for the dog to walk on a lead without
distractions. The handler and dog should walk for approximately 30 paces and
include some turns and should demonstrate that this can be done without undue
inconvenience and the dog pulling forward or back. Note:
Competition heelwork is not the aim. An occasional tight lead does not
necessarily result in classification “Not Ready”. The dog is permitted to walk
on either side of the handler.
Exercise 4 - Control at Door/Gate
The object of this exercise is for a handler and dog to walk through a
gate/doorway under control and on a lead. The dog should not pull or be pulled
through the gate/doorway. When this exercise commences the dog can be in any
position and should wait while the handler opens the gate/door and then proceeds
to go through. The handler should then recall the dog through the gate/doorway.
While the handler secures the gate, the dog should remain settled.
Exercise 5 - Controlled Walk Amongst People And Dogs
The object is for the handler to remain in control of their dog whilst walking
amongst people, dogs and distractions. The handler should walk for approximately
30 paces and include some turns. They should demonstrate that this can be done
without undue inconvenience and the dog pulling forward or back. The dog should
behave in a quiet, relaxed and controlled manner whilst the handler holds a
conversation for one minute. The dog may adopt a stand, sit or down position at
this time. This is not a stay exercise. Note:
Competition heelwork is not the aim. An occasional tight lead does not
necessarily result in classification “Not Ready”. The dog is permitted to walk
on either side of the handler.
Exercise 6 - Stay on Lead for One Minute
The object of this exercise is that the dog will stay on the spot while the
handler moves away for one minute. The handler should remain in sight. The
handler should place the dog on lead in any position i.e. stand, sit or down.
Upon instruction, having quietly dropped the lead, the handler will move a
distance of five paces away for a period of one minute.
Note: This exercise is a test to see if the dog will stay in one place without
changing position. The dog must stay in the position that it is left in.
Exercise 7 - Grooming
The object of this exercise is to test the handler’s ability to groom the dog
without a struggle. Grooming performed should be relevant to the individual dog,
conducted on a lead and should include all parts of the dog’s body. Handlers are
required to provide their own grooming equipment. Note:
Any signs of aggression or nervousness while grooming the dog will be deemed
“Not Ready”. It is permissible for small dogs to be groomed on a table.
Exercise 8 - Examination of the Dog
The object of this exercise is to demonstrate that the dog will allow inspection
of its body by its handler. This exercise will be carried out on a lead. The
examiner will be shown how a handler can examine their own dog. The dog is to be
placed for inspection of its mouth, teeth, throat, eyes, ears, stomach, tail 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. This
is a most important exercise and will require considerable care, expertise and
patience on the part of the instructor. The
average new owner may find this exercise difficult and frustrating.
Exercise 9 - Return to Handler
The object of this exercise is for a dog to return to its handler when
instructed to do so. The handler will release the dog from its lead, play with
or without a toy, or in some other way distance themselves 10 paces away from
the dog. When directed to do so, the handler should call the dog. Having
rejoined, the dog should stop close to the handler in any position and the lead
shall be replaced. Note:
The handler is to be advised not to let the dog run uncontrolled in open spaces
such as woods, parks and farmland.
Exercise 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. The Examiner should construct questions based
on section one of the Responsibility and Care leaflet. 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 and Care
leaflet. 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 leaflet.
SILVER TEST
Description of Exercises
Exercise 1 - Play
with the Dog
The object of this
exercise 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. When instructed to do so the handler should commence to play
with the dog. Play
should be under the
handler’s control and if it involves articles they should be readily given up by
the dog. Note: Play should
be appropriate to the
dog under test but should not include play fighting. Formal retrieves will not
be deemed as
appropriate play. It is
recommended that the Examiner commences with this exercise.
Exercise 2 - Road Walk
The object of this
exercise is to test the ability of the dog to walk on a lead under control on a
public highway. This exercise should
be carried out at a
suitable outdoor location and an occasional tight lead is 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.
Having observed the
Highway Code, they
should proceed to the other side, turn and continue walking. 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.
Exercise 3 - Rejoin
handler
The object of this
exercise is for the dog to remain steady, off lead, while the handler moves
away, the dog will then rejoin when
instructed to do so.
Having left the dog and moved approximately ten paces away, when directed to do
so, the handler should call
the dog. Having
rejoined, the dog should stop close to the handler in any position, the lead
shall be replaced.
Note: The dog should not
rejoin until instructed, but minor anticipation will be acceptable.
Exercise 4 - Stay in One
Place for Two Minutes
The object of this
exercise is that the dog will stay on the spot while the handler moves away for
two minutes. The handler should
remain in sight. The
handler should place the dog with the lead attached in any position of their
choice i.e. stand, sit or down.
Upon instruction, having
quietly dropped the lead, the handler will move a distance of five paces away
for a period of two minutes.
Note: This exercise is a
test to see if the dog will stay in one place without changing position. The dog
must stay in
the position it is left
in.
Exercise 5 - Vehicle
Control
The object of this
exercise 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 this exercise. Without pulling, the dog should be taken on lead
towards a vehicle and
remain steady whilst the
handler opens the vehicle door. The dog should not attempt to get in until
instructed but should then
enter willingly and the
door should be closed. The handler, Examiner and, if necessary, a driver will
get into the vehicle. The
engine should be started
and run for a short time to enable the Examiner to assess the effect upon the
dog, which at all times,
should remain quiet,
relaxed, and under control. The dog will then be instructed to exit in an
orderly manner. The handler should
then close the door with
the dog calmly under control.
Note: Only physically able dogs should be invited to jump into the
vehicle and where
appropriate, dogs may be lifted in and out of the vehicle. It is highly
recommended that when
travelling, dogs are
secure in a vehicle. However, dogs should not be penalised if handlers do not
use specific types
of equipment recommended
for safe canine travel.
Exercise 6 - Come away
from Distractions
The object of this
exercise is for the handler to remain in control of their dog when there are
distractions. The handler should take
the dog, on lead, to a
gathering of people with dogs also on lead. When instructed to do so, the lead
should be removed and the
handler should walk or
run away calling the dog, which should return without delay and be placed on the
lead.
Note: Dogs of an unruly
nature will not take part in this exercise or be part of the group.
Exercise 7 - Controlled
Greeting
The object of this
exercise 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. The Examiner will greet the dog as they may do when entering a
house. A dog that
does not jump up will
pass. Note: The Examiner should
not over incite the dog to jump up. A dog displaying poor
temperament will not
pass.
Exercise 8 - Food Manners
The object of this
exercise is for the dog to have good manners when aware of food. Food should be
handled or consumed while
the dog, on a loose
lead, is taken in close proximity to it. The dog should not unduly respond to
this temptation, i.e. not to beg
for food or steal.
Note: The Examiner should be
satisfied that the dog has been taken close enough to the food to be
aware of it.
Exercise 9 - Examination
of the Dog
The object of this
exercise 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 its mouth,
teeth, throat, eyes, ears and feet
whilst 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.
Exercise 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. The Examiner
should construct
questions based on section one and two of the Responsibility and Care leaflet.
Topics include – a dog’s needs,
illness,
responsibilities of ownership, other responsibilities, children, barking, dogs
and stationary vehicles and vehicle travel. 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 and Care leaflet. There should be a
session during which
the importance of these
topics in every day life situations are discussed. Note: Only one numbered
item may constitute
a question. The handler
should be able to give six out of eight correct answers from section one and two
of the
Responsibility and Care leaflet.
GOLD TEST
Description of Exercises
Exercise 1 - Road Walk
The object of this exercise is to test the ability of the dog to walk on a lead
under control on a public highway 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 is 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.
Exercise 2 - Return to Handler’s Side
The object of this exercise 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
handler’s side and both should continue together for approximately ten paces. Note:
A dog moving loosely at the handler’s side, under control, is quite acceptable
and there is no requirement for a halt to complete the exercise.
Exercise 3 - Walk Free Beside Handler
The object of this exercise 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 a test of control whilst
walking with a dog off lead beside its handler for approximately 40 paces.
Competition heelwork is not the aim, but is acceptable. 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 a lead. Upon instruction the handler will attach the lead
to finish to the test. Note:
Changes of direction are right and left turns without formality.
Exercise 4 - Stay Down in one Place
The object of this exercise 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 placetheir 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 dog will stay down in one place without
changing position.
Exercise 5 - Send the Dog to Bed
The object of this exercise 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 for the dog under test
and no inducement e.g. toys or food should be used during this exercise.
Exercise 6 - Stop the Dog
The object of this exercise 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 should be moving and 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.
Exercise 7 - Relaxed Isolation
The object of this exercise 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, provided 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 should 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.
Exercise 8 - Food Manners
The object of this exercise 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 a command to eat. 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.
Exercise 9 - Examination of the Dog
The object of this exercise 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 its mouth, teeth, throat, eyes, ears, stomach, tail and feet whilst 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.
Exercise 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. The Examiner should construct questions based
on section two and three of the Responsibility and Care leaflet. 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 Canine Code and
Responsibility and Care leaflet. There should be a session during which the
importance of these topics in every day life situations are discussed. 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 of the
Responsibility and Care leaflet.
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