A fun, structured way to train, learn and progress together​

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The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme is a nationally recognised programme designed to help dogs and their owners develop great manners, confidence and real-life skills — all in a positive and supportive way.

At Paws 4 Training, we follow the scheme through each stage, guiding you and your dog from those early puppy steps right through to advanced training.

 

Puppy Foundation Assessment

The Puppy Foundation Assessment is all about getting puppies off to the very best start.

This stage focuses on socialisation, confidence and basic training, helping puppies learn how to behave calmly and happily in everyday situations. Over an 8-week course, both puppy and handler are supported and gently assessed as they progress together.

At the end of the course, puppies who meet the required standard are awarded the Kennel Club Good Citizen Puppy Foundation Certificate - a lovely milestone in their training journey.

 

Bronze Award

The Bronze Award builds strong foundations and introduces essential everyday skills.

Dogs learn to:

• Walk calmly and under control on the lead

• Stay in position when asked

• Come back when called

• Allow handling, grooming and basic inspection

• Behave in a relaxed, happy and controlled manner

Handlers also develop a solid understanding of training techniques and how to communicate clearly with their dog. This level sets dogs and owners up for confident, enjoyable training going forward.

 

Silver Award

The Silver Award builds on the skills learned at Bronze level, adding greater focus, control and confidence.

Training becomes a little more challenging, with exercises designed around real-life situations, including:

• Controlled greetings

• Road walking

• Vehicle control exercises

This stage encourages dogs and handlers to work together more independently, strengthening teamwork and understanding.

 

Gold Award

The Gold Award is the highest level of achievement within the scheme.

At this stage, dogs and handlers refine and extend all previously learned skills, while being introduced to more advanced exercises such as:

• Relaxed isolation

• Sending your dog to bed

• Stop exercises

Assessment takes place in both indoor and outdoor environments, reflecting everyday life. The Gold Award demonstrates a high level of training, understanding and partnership between dog and owner.

 

A rewarding journey

Each level of the Good Citizen Dog Scheme offers clear goals, positive training and a great sense of achievement — all while strengthening the bond between you and your dog.

 

If you’d like to take part or find out which level is right for you, we’d be happy to help, contact us via our form.