6 Week Class - $250
In this engaging class, your puppy will practice essential skills like coming when called, walking nicely on leash, sitting calmly for petting, and more covering all of the skills tested in the 20-step AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy exam. We also focus on critical early socialization with people and other dogs. Each session includes supervised play or group exercises to build confidence. We’ll answer common puppy questions on house-training, nipping, chewing, etc., and provide handouts so you can continue training at home. By the end of eight weeks, you and your pup will be ready to shine in the S.T.A.R. Puppy test. Of course, successful pups earn a medal and a frameable certificate from the AKC! It’s a paw-some way to start your puppy’s journey toward becoming a Canine Good Citizen.
Requirements for AKC STAR Puppy Training Class:
* Canine participants must be under a year of age and have their Rabies, Bordetella & at least 3 distemper/parvo vaccines.
> Proof of vaccinations required before class start date
* No shock collars, e-collars, prong collars or choke chains allowed in class or for the test.
* Only puppies that are behaviorally healthy and show no dog or human aggression signs.
* Rewards, food, physical & verbal praise allowed during the final test
20 Test Items for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Training Class:
OWNER BEHAVIORS:
1. Maintains puppy’s health (vaccines, exams, appears healthy)
2. Reads & acknowledges Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge
3. Pet parent describes adequate daily play & exercise plan
4. Must attend at least 6 classes by an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator
5. Always cleans up pet accidents & is prepared
6. Proof of ownership & safety measures like ID for puppy-collar tag, etc.
PUPPY BEHAVIORS:
7. No aggression toward people during at least 6 weeks of class
8. Aggression toward other puppies in class not present
9. Tolerates collar or body harness of owner’s choice
10. Family can can hug or hold puppy (depending on size)
11. Puppy allows owner to take away a treat or toy
PRE-CANINE GOOD CITIZEN® TEST BEHAVIORS:
12. Allows (in any position) petting by a person other than the owner
13. Grooming-Allows owner handling and brief exam (ears, feet)
14. Walks on a Leash-Follows owner on lead in a straight line (15 steps)
15. Leash manners b other people-Walks on leash past other people 5-ft away
16. Sits on command-Owner may use a food lure
17. Down on command-Owner may use a food lure
18. Comes to owner from 5-ft when name is called
19. Reaction to Distractions-distractions are presented 15-ft away
20. Stay on leash with another person (owner walks 10 steps and returns)
Tools to Assist in Your AKC STAR Puppy Training Journey
* AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Training packet both printed & digital with detailed step-by-step instructions, explanation on test items, exercises to implement for each test item, troubleshooting, and corresponding videos.
* Weekly homework handouts
* Real-life enrichment and confidence-building exercises
* Certificate of completion (for all graduates) to register with the AKC
* Official AKC S.T.A.R Puppy certificate (for passing students)
* Receive a free training treat bag at the first class
💡 Bonus: Retake the group class once for free if needed!
Upcoming S.T.A.R. Puppy Classes
Start Date |
Start Time |
End Time |
Event Name |
# of Classes |
September 27, 2025 |
5:00 PM |
6:00 PM |
9/27/25 AKC STAR Puppy Group Training Class |
6 |
November 8, 2025 |
4:00 PM |
5:00 PM |
11/8/25 AKC STAR Puppy Group Training Class |
6 |
January 3, 2026 |
3:00 PM |
4:00 PM |
1/3/26 AKC STAR Puppy Group Training Class |
6 |
February 21, 2026 |
5:00 PM |
6:00 PM |
2/21/26 AKC STAR Puppy Group Training Class |
6 |