Canine Good Neighbour Program ( Source
: Canadian Kennel Club )
The CGN
Tests are sponsored by local dog clubs, private dog training schools, pet
therapy societies, community colleges, service organizations, pet supply
stores, and some veterinary clinics. Tests will be conducted inside or outside
in everyday, busy locations such as shopping malls, hotels, community centers
or parks. They are not conducted in quiet locations such as regular dog
training halls. The tests will demonstrate that a dog can respond to such
commands as "sit", "down", "stay",
"come" and "heel" and that they can be put into practice
every day. A handler must work with a dog to achieve a response to their
commands. The evaluator assigns ratings to handlers and their dogs on a
"Pass" or "Not-Ready" basis. Dogs must be at least 6 months
old to participate in the test. The test is non-competitive. Dogs are not
required to have formal obedience training in order to participate in or
successfully complete this test. In order to pass, a dog must satisfy the
evaluator that it is:
· One whose behaviour would be acceptable in
one's home
· One who would be welcomed as a neighbour.
· One who is well mannered in the presence of a
variety of people, dogs and situations.
· One who is well groomed and allows
examination and grooming.
Interaction
between handlers and dogs during the tests is encouraged. Handlers may talk to
their dogs and quietly assist them to perform the tests. The dogs must be
attentive and respond to their handler's movements and words. An occasional
tight lead is permitted, but constant straining is unacceptable. Hugs, pats and
words of encouragement are welcomed. Food, toys and other training aids are not
permitted during testing. Successful completion of this test does not mean that
the dog/handler team is automatically deemed suitable for pet therapy
visitation or work. The CGN title does form part of the dog's official
registration papers. It is meant to reward the dog for having good manners,
thereby gaining a greater acceptance of it in the community. While the CKC
encourages all dog owners to participate in this program, the CKC is not
responsible for conducting a CGN test, or for any subsequent behaviour of
tested dogs.
The
handler is required to bring the following equipment to the test:
Proof of
vaccination certificate.
· Dog license (if required by local dog control
by laws). Test fee.
· A leash not less than .75 meters (2') nor
longer than 2 meters (6') in length. (Acceptable collars include a well-fitting
slip, buckle or martingale collar, made of fabric, leather or chain. All other
types of collars are unacceptable.)
· A grooming tool - either a brush or comb.
· A plastic bag for picking up after your dog.
At
registration, owners must present all locally required inoculation certificates
and/or licenses. Requirements vary from community to community. Please check
with the sponsoring organization to determine local by-law requirements.
All
evaluator decisions are final.
PASS The
handler/dog team has earned the title of Canadian Kennel Club Canine Good
Neighbour and will receive a certificate attesting to this accomplishment.
NOT READY
The handler/dog team assessed as "Not Ready" may participate in
future tests.
Any of
the following behaviours may result in a rating of "Not Ready":
Dogs
sniffing excessively, so as to interfere with appropriate walking on a leash.
Handlers who use force or an excessively loud voice in an attempt to control
the dog. Dogs exhibiting excessive shyness. Dogs barking or vocalizing
excessively. Dogs urinating or defecating during testing. Dogs charging ahead
of the handler during the Walk through a door/gate test (Test 12).
DISQUALIFICATION
A dog that displays unruly behaviour at any time will be immediately
disqualified and removed from the test area. Unruly behaviour is defined as
aggression, growling, or lunging at people and/or dogs, biting or attempting to
bite and fighting. A dog that has been disqualified can be re-tested at a later
date.
Handlers who
shout or mishandle their dogs will be cautioned that such conduct is not
acceptable and will not earn certification if such handling continues.
Handlers
of dogs, which receive a "Not Ready" rating, will be encouraged to
continue working with their dogs and given tips on how to improve the dog's
performance.
Dogs are
rated as "Pass" or "Not Ready". The Canadian Kennel Club
issues certificated for dogs rated "Passed" and blank certificates
may not be photocopied. Once the test is completed, the sponsoring organization
will submit to the CKC the Registration/Evaluation form along with the
certification fee for each dog that passed. The Canadian Kennel Club will issue
certificates for all dogs that pass the test whether they be purebred or of
mixed breed.
There is
no expiration of CGN certification. It is hoped that the knowledge gained
relative to responsible dog ownership will last a lifetime. However, there is
no guarantee that a dog will continue to behave in the manner required to
obtain the CGN for its entire life. Just as one's typing skills diminish
without practice, a dog's skills diminish without practice. It is important for
owners to continue to work with the dog long after the test date has passed,
not only to maintain peak performance, but for the satisfaction of both owner
and dog.
Evaluators
and instructors are individuals with backgrounds in conformation, obedience and
fieldwork as well as those who work with therapy dogs, as groomers or in humane
shelters. They possess a strong understanding of dog behaviour and they are
aware of a dog's role in society and society's attitude toward dogs.
They are
required to participate in training sessions and hands-on practice sessions
before attaining evaluator status. Additionally, they must pass a written
examination.
Evaluators
are required to walk through the test site in order to ensure the area is
satisfactory and is a safe environment.
The CGN
program welcomes and encourages handlers with disabilities to participate in
the Canine Good Neighbour program. If necessary, evaluator may make minor
changes to test procedures to accommodate handlers with disabilities.
An owner
may individually train a dog for this test, but training with a group or class
can be fun and helpful.
Many CKC
accredited clubs and local training schools offer programs that prepare
handlers/dog teams for CKC CGN testing. Contact your local dog clubs, pet
therapy societies, pet supply stores or veterinary clinics for training centre
information.
Where to Find Canine Good Neighbour Tests
The CGN
Test are sponsored by local dog clubs, private dog training schools, pet
therapy societies, community colleges, service organizations, pet supply
stores, and some veterinary clinics. To find a CGN test in your area, begin by
calling dog clubs, training schools and pet therapy societies. If you need
further assistance, contact The Canadian Kennel Club at (416) 675-5511.
Test kits
complete with posters, Registration/Evaluation forms, Evaluator Guides and
Participant Handbooks are available for purchase from the CKC. The kits are
available for 25, 50, 75 and 100 dogs. Items may also be purchased
individually.
For
prices and to order your kit contact:
THE
CANADIAN KENNEL CLUB 89 Skyway Avenue Suite 100 Etobicoke, On. M9W 6R4
Telephone: (416) 675-5511 Fax: (416) 675-6506 Order Desk Department:
1-800-250-8040 Email : information@ckc.ca
TEST 1
- ACCEPTING A FRIENDLY STRANGER
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to allow a friendly stranger to approach and
speak to the handler in a natural, everyday manner.
NOTE:
Tests 1, 2 and 3 may be combined to flow from one to the other.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will walk toward the handler and dog and greet the handler in a
friendly manner, shake hands with the handler and ignore the dog. The evaluator
is assessing that the handler is in control of the dog and that the dog is not
threatened by the approach of a stranger.
· Handler and Dog
As the
evaluator approaches, the handler may tell the dog to sit and quietly reassure
the dog. The handler may not hold the collar tightly or in any other way
restrain the dog. While it is not necessary for the dog to be sitting, it is
important that the dog does not break position, move toward or interfere with
the evaluator.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Nor Ready": The dog displays
an overly exuberant attitude. The dog leaps or attempts to leap up on the
evaluator. The dog hangs back or tries to avoid the approaching evaluator.
The dog exhibits fearfulness, resentment or shyness.
· Training Tips
Dogs must
not be allowed to jump on people uninvited. Training a dog to sit while people
greet the handler calms the dog, and reassures people of all ages that the dog
is well behaved. The secret lies in teaching the dog to remain sitting without
having to assist with the leash. A taut leash encourages a dog to pull forward
and jump, or be worried. Practice with family and friends at first, until you
no longer need to use the leash to make the dog sit and stay beside you. Be
positive in your manner. A dog takes its cue on how to behave from the handler.
If the handler is friendly and relaxed, the dog should be the same.
TEST 2 - POLITELY ACCEPTS PETTING
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it
is out with its handler.
This test
is a natural progression from Test 1. In most instances, when encouraging a
friend or acquaintance with your dog, the dog will be included in the
conversation and will usually be petted.
· Description of Test
The evaluator
will request permission to pet the dog and will then proceed to pet the dog on
the head and shoulders. The evaluator is assessing whether the dog remains calm
while a stranger pets it.
· Handler and Dog
The dog
is to be sitting beside the handler (either left or right side is acceptable).
The handler may talk to his/her dog throughout the exercise. The dog does not
have to maintain the sitting position but must remain in place. If the handler
commands the dog to sit and the dog does not respond, the handler may lightly
touch the dog on the hindquarters but may not physically force the dog into a
sitting position. The handler may not physically restrain the dog either by use
of the collar or any other method.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
is not steady when a stranger pets it. The dog attempts to jump up. The dog
exhibits resentment or shyness.
· Training tips
Add to
the training for Test 1 by having friends and family pet the dog gently and
quietly on the head and shoulders, speaking in a friendly fashion as they do
so. Teach the dog to stay sitting on a loose leash beside you. Praise the dog
while it sits nicely. Reposition the dog in a sit if it should get up. Once the
dog sits quietly to be petted by people it knows, introduce the dog to a
variety of strangers who will behave in a similar manner. If a dog is uncertain
of strangers, carrying a food treat for the stranger to offer the dog, with
your permission, may reassure the dog at first. If a dog is so uncertain as to
continue to hide behind you, or growls or threatens in any way, seek
professional advice for your training.
TEST 3 - APPEARANCE AND GROOMING
This
practical test demonstrates that the dog will accept being groomed and examined
and will permit a stranger to do so, such as a veterinarian, groomer, friend of
the owner, etc. It also demonstrates the owner's care, concern and sense of
responsibility for his dog's well being.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will ask for the grooming tool before the test begins. The evaluator
will inspect the dog to determine if it is clean, groomed, appears in good
health and in good weight. The evaluator will lightly examine the ears, teeth,
eyes and each front foot of the dog and softly comb or brush it on the body.
The evaluator will then walk behind the handler and dog, returning to face the
team. The evaluator is testing for shyness and/or resentment.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler will provide the evaluator with the grooming tool before the test
begins. The dog is not required to maintain a sitting position. The handler may
encourage the dog during the test. The handler may use light collar pressure in
positioning the dog, but no physical restraint.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rates as "Not Ready"
The dog
exhibits shyness or resentment. The dog is not clean, well groomed, does not
appear healthy or in good weight.
· Training tips
Dogs
should be accustomed to being handled gently but firmly on any part of their
body, whether lying down, sitting, or standing. Regular grooming should be
pleasurable for handler and dog alike. Dogs may be especially nervous of people
touching the paws. Remember to stroke and handle a dog's paws when you pet him.
While looking at a dog's teeth is not part of the test, it is useful for you to
practice doing so. Ask your trainer, veterinarian or groomer to show you how.
Do keep your dog clean and at a healthy weight for its size and build.
This test
demonstrates the ability of the dog to walk politely on a loose leash as well
as the handler's ability to control the dog.
· Description of Test
At the
beginning of the test, the evaluator will indicate to the handler the area in
which they are to walk. The handler will walk in a straight line, demonstrating
at least one right and left turn as well as a 180-degree turn. The evaluator
will be assessing the dog's ability to walk quietly near the handler without
pulling the leash taut. The evaluator will note that the dog responds to the
handler's changes of direction.
· Handler and Dog
The dog
may be on either side of the handler. The handler may speak quietly to the dog
throughout the test. The dog is required to walk near the handler without
pulling or straining. The leash should be loose in order to demonstrate that
the dog is under control and is not being steered by the handler. The handler
and dog are required to walk a straight line, make at least one right and one
left turn as well as a 180-degree turn. The dog is not required to sit when the
handler stops walking.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready"
The dog
does not respond to the handler's movements and changes in direction. The
handler must pull the leash taut to control the dog. The dog does not walk
quietly without restraint. The dog is not attentive to the handler.
· Training tips
Soon after
a puppy is accustomed to walking on a leash, the handler should teach it to not
pull, nor hold the leash taut. The leash should be merely a reminder to the dog
that the handler wishes the dog to remain close by, and a way of keeping the
dog safe from distraction if need be. In formal obedience training, the handler
teaches the dog to sit each time they halt, whether at a road, or for any other
reason. Training the dog to sit when the handler stops is useful. For a dog
that is formally trained, the handler may use any of the dog's training
commands and skill during the CGN Test.
TEST 5 - WALKING THROUGH A CROWD
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to walk politely beside the handler in
pedestrian traffic while remaining under control at all times.
Note: The
requirements for this test are the same as test 4, except the dog may only show
mild interest in the strangers.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will instruct the handler to walk with the dog (on either the
handler's left or right side) through and by a group of several people (at
least 5). The evaluator is assessing the dog's ability to maintain a position
close to the handler without being unduly stressed or becoming unruly, as well
as the handler's ability to control the dog.
· Handler and Dog
The dog
should remain on one side of the handler for the duration of the test. The dog
is not required to maintain a heeling position beside the handler but may not
be so far ahead or behind the handler as to create an impediment to individuals
walking by. The handler may talk to the dog and provide verbal encouragement
and praise during the test. The handler may not steer the dog with the leash.
The dog may show mild interest in the strangers but should not go to them.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready"
The dog
displays more than mild interest in the strangers or goes to them. The dog is
straining on the leash and displays excessive exuberance. The dog exhibits
shyness, resentment or is jumping. The handler is unable to control the dog.
The dog becomes stress or unruly.
· Training tips
Once the
handler has trained the dog to walk politely on the leash, he should take the
dog to a variety of locations to practice further. A well-behaved dog should
ignore distractions of all kinds, people, other animals, noises and unusual
sights. Socializing a puppy by taking it into situations that it will be expected
to cope with as an adult dog is extremely helpful. Handle the puppy or
inexperienced dog in a positive manner, introducing new sights and experiences
gradually, so as never to frighten it. Be relaxed and matter-of-fact in new
situations and the dog will learn to copy the handler's reaction.
TEST 6 - SIT/DOWN ON COMMAND AND
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to respond to the handler's commands to sit and
down and to remain in place on command.
NOTE:
Tests 6 and 7 require the use of a long line provided by the sponsoring
organization.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will provide the handler with a 6 meter (20`) line, which the handler
should attach to the dog's collar prior to the commencement of the test. The
short leash should be removed once the long line is attached. The evaluator
will instruct the handler to place the dog in either a sit or down position,
command the dog to stay, and walk to the end of the long line. The handler will
then turn to face the dog and promptly return to the dog. The evaluator is
testing for the dog's response to basic commands.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler may take a reasonable amount of time and may use more than one command
to sit or down the dog. The handler may gently touch the dog in an effort to
assist the dog in assuming either the sit or down position. The handler may not
physically place or force the dog into position. The handler may repeat a
command and use signals and gestures to assist the dog as well as a light
touch. Once prone, the dog must remain in place. Once the dog is in either the
sit or down position, the handler is to command it to "stay", then
walk away from the dog to the end of the long line. Once reaching the end of
the long line, the handler will turn to face the dog and without pausing return
to the dog. The handler is not required to walk behind the dog in returning to
heel position. The handler is not required to wait for the evaluator to
indicate an end to the test after he returns to the dog.
Dogs that
exhibit the following with be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
does not respond to basic commands of sit or down. The dog does not obey the
command to stay in place.
· Training tips
All dogs
should be taught to understand these commands, which are very useful in a
variety of situations. Dogs can be taught to sit and lie down in a variety of
ways. Often puppies are taught first with a food lure, or they can be give a command
and gently placed into position. With repetition, they should respond
consistently to a command or gesture. The stay also takes practice. Begin by
teaching a puppy or dog to hold a sit or down for a few seconds, then get up to
be praised by the handler. A "release" word, such as "OK",
said before praising to indicate the dog may now move, is really useful,
although it is not required for the test. Over a few weeks, increase the time
the dog is required to hold position, and the distance the handler walks away.
Be careful to avoid teaching a dog that the moment you turn toward it after
walking away that you wish it to come to you. Make the dog wait before you
call, or just go back to the dog, so it learns to wait for what you want. For
the test, the handler needs to learn to use a long line without accidentally
pulling on the dog, or making the dog think the handler wants it to come.
Practice by using a rope at home (if you do not have a long line (long leash).
You can tie it to a leash snap so it is easy to put on and take off the dog's
collar. (It is very convenient to use a long line when first teaching a dog to
stay at a distance from you, and to come reliably in strange locations, so you
are not concerned that the dog might run away).
TEST 7 - COME WHEN CALLED (LONG LINE)
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to come when called by the handler.
NOTE:
Tests 7 and 8 may be combined so as to flow from one to the next.
· Description of Test
The long
line remains attached to the dog's collar. The evaluator will stand near the
dog and instruct the handler to position the dog in either a sit, down or stand
position. The handler will command the dog to "stay or wait" and then
will walk a distance of 3 meters (8-10'), before turning and calling the dog.
When called, the dog must come close enough for the handler to touch it. The
evaluator is checking whether the dog will remain where left and will respond
quickly to the handler's command to come.
· Handler and Dog
The dog
may change position, but must remain in place when waiting for the command to
come. When called, the dog must come at a reasonable speed without stopping to
sniff or wandering off. The dog may drop its head to sniff, but must continue
towards the handler. The dog must come close enough for the handler to touch it
but is not required to sit. The handler may use body motions and verbal
encouragement.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
does not remain in place when the handler walks away. The dog does not come on
command at a reasonable speed. The dog sniff or wanders off (it is acceptable
if the dog drops it head to sniff, but continues toward the handler).
· Training tips
Handlers
need a dog to come to them reliably and willingly. This test demonstrates a
successful beginning level of teaching a dog to come. Using a long line ensures
that the handler is relaxed and confident in maintaining control of the dog. A
handler must always be positive and encouraging in calling a dog and praise it
warmly for coming. It helps if you bend down and pat your body or knees to show
the dog where you wish him to come. If the dog comes slowly at any time,
shuffle backwards, encouraging the dog with words and gestures. Never chase a
dog, grab for it, or punish it after it has come, or you will destroy its trust
in you. During the test, food treats or toys are not allowed.
This test
demonstrates that the dog can be easily calmed following play or praise.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will instruct the handler to command the dog to "Come", and
then to commence a play session with the dog. After about 10 seconds of play,
the evaluator will then instruct the handler to calm the dog. The evaluator is
assessing both the handler's control of the dog and the dog's ability to
respond quickly to the handler's command to settle.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler may use any combination of verbal praise, and playful postures,
gestures or actions to engage the dog in play or in the performance of tricks.
When calming the dog, the handler's voice may be firm but must not be loud or
angry. The handler may use more than one command to calm the dog but the dog must
display an attitude of controlled behaviour following calming efforts on the
part the handler.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated "Not Ready":
The
handler is using forcible leash pressure to calm the dog. The dog does not
settle quickly. The handler does not have control of the dog.
· Training tips
The
purpose of this test is to provide the evaluator with an opportunity to observe
the interaction between dog and handler. It also tests the handler's ability to
settle the dog following play. A handler should practice making a dog respond
to commands even during play. The sit, down, or stay command is frequently the
most effective choice. Teaching a dog to wait before retrieving a toy can be
helpful.
(After
Test 8, the handler should reattach the short leash to the dog's collar before
removing the long line and returning it to the evaluator.)
TEST 9 - REACTION TO PASSING DOG
This test
demonstrates the dog's polite behaviour while in the presence of other dogs and
handlers.
· Description of Test
The test
is set up using another handler/dog team that are not being evaluated. This
team is placed 6 meters (20') from the handler and dog being tested. The
handlers and their dogs will approach one another, stop, shake hands, briefly
chat and continue on past each other for approximately 2 meters (6'). The dog
being tested should exhibit no more than casual interest. The evaluator is
assessing behaviour on the part of the dog and the handler's control of the
dog.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler should command the dog to heel before beginning to walk toward the
other handler/dog team. Upon reaching the other team, the handler should
command the dog to sit, thereafter greeting the other handler and chatting
briefly. The dog may not be restrained. The dog may show mild interest in the
other handler and dog but may not move toward the other dog, or exhibit shy or
aggressive behaviour. The handler may use additional commands to ensure a
response from the dog but may not jerk or grab it.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
does not respond to the handler's instructions. The handler is forced to jerk
or grab the dog. The dog moves toward the other dog.
· Training tips
Not all
dogs are friendly, nor is it suitable that all dogs sniff and play with each
other. Handlers should always be respectful of other handlers' wishes. A dog
should not be allowed to participate in any playgroups until the handler has
enough control to be able to call the dog away from the group promptly at any
time.
TEST
10 - REACTION TO DISTRACTIONS
This test
demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common
visual and auditory distractions found in everyday life, such as the sudden
opening or closing of a door, crutches, wheelchair, baby stroller, loud noises,
etc.
· Description of Test
The
evaluator will instruct the handler to begin walking with his dog on a loose
leash beside him. Several people will walk by in any direction using one or
more distractions. The distractions will not be an attempt to frighten the dog,
but rather something the dog encounters in everyday life, such as baby
strollers, walkers, canes, someone carrying a ladder, etc. The evaluator is
observing the dog's reaction to the distractions as well as the dog's response
to the handler's commands.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler may command the dog to walk at heel while the individuals walk by. The
handler may speak encouragingly to the dog, but may not steer the dog with the
leash nor attempt to restrain the dog. The dog may startle but should recover
quickly. The dog may express natural interest and curiosity. The dog may bark
once or twice.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
shows panic, tries to run away. The dog does not respond to the handler's
command. The dog shows fear. The dog continues to bark.
· Training tips
Dogs
should be socialized to accept noises and sights of many kinds. Take a dog to a
variety of locations and walk him through these areas to accustom him to new
experiences. The handler should remain calm and matter of fact, and gradually
acquaint the dog to anything that worries it. Never place the dog at risk, or
force him to accept unusually frightening distractions. Carry a young puppy through
busy areas, so he is not at risk of being stepped on, and can look at anything
unknown to him from the safety of your arms.
TEST 11 - SUPERVISED ISOLATION
This test
demonstrates the dog's ability to be left alone with a trusted person other
than its handler, while maintaining a calm acceptance of the situation.
· Description of Test
The
handler will walk with the dog to a designated person (assistant evaluator),
and hand over the leash. The handler may command the dog to sit or lie down and
wait/stay. Then the handler will leave the area and go to a pre-designated
location out of sight of the dog. The handler will wait 3 minutes until called
to return by the assistant evaluator. The evaluator is observing the dog's
ability to maintain good manners when left alone with another person. The dog
may show some mild stress, but should not bark, pace or pant excessively.
Neither should the dog attempt to climb up on the assistant, nor pull away. (If
the dog should become excessively agitated, the evaluator will call the handler
back before the time required and the dog will be judged "Not Ready".
· Handler and Dog
The dog
does not have to maintain position or place with the assistant evaluator. The
dog may not show signs of excessive stress. Mild stress or nervousness is
acceptable behaviour.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The dog
attempts to climb on the assistant evaluator. The dog continually barks,
whines, howls, paces or pants excessively. The dog pulls on the leash in an
attempt to get away.
· Training tips
Dogs
should be taught to accept separation from the handler. Teaching a dog to sleep
in a crate or bed, or stay in a room apart from the handler, or in the yard, is
a practical application of this training. It helps greatly if you are calm and
casual whenever you leave or return to your dog. Handlers should use common
sense whenever leaving a dog alone. The length of absence should be reasonable
for the age and training of the dog, and the dog should be left confined in an
area that is safe for it. Handlers should be careful to never tie a dog in
public unless they are right at hand to supervise and protect the dog. Children
should be allowed to supervise a dog only if an adult is present. You can
practice for this test on your own by tying the dog in a safe place where you
can observe it at all times. Gradually build up the time you leave the dog to
slightly more than the required test time, while you remain in view. Then start
going out of sight for just a few seconds at first. Wait until the dog is
comfortable and relaxed when you are out of sight for a short time period
before increasing your absence to the full time.
TEST 12 - WALKING THROUGH A DOOR/GATE
This test
demonstrates the dog's response to the handler's commands as well as the
handler's ability to control the dog in a restricted area while moving ahead of
the dog and through a door/gate.
· Description of Test
The
handler will command the dog to sit and wait. The handler will then walk
through the opening (door/gate). Once through, the handler will instruct the
dog to walk through the opening and return to the handler's side.
Alternatively, if the opening is large enough for the two of them to pass
through simultaneously, then the handler may instruct the dog to maintain a
steady position beside the handler as they walk through the opening together.
The evaluator is assessing the dog's ability to respond to commands from the
handler as well as the handler's ability to control the dog in a restricted
area.
· Handler and Dog
The
handler may talk quietly to the dog as they approach the opening. If walking
through the opening simultaneously, the dog should maintain a loose leash
throughout and should not lunge forward in an attempt to pass through ahead of
the handler. In the event the opening is too small, the handler may quietly
command the dog to wait (or sit and wait) while the handler walks through.
Dogs that
exhibit the following will be rated as "Not Ready":
The
handler does not have control of the dog or jerks the dog in an attempt to
maintain control. The dog does not obey the handler's command. The dog lunges
or charges ahead of the handler.
· Training tips
A dog
should be taught to never rush through a doorway ahead of the handler. Teaching
a dog to wait before telling it to go through, whether beside or following the
handler, prevents many problem behaviours of dogs at home or in public. A dog
that is taught to wait will not run out of a door unexpectedly to escape, or
chase anything. Make it a rule that you always instruct a dog to wait before
you permit it to go through doors (even car doors) or gates leading to any
public area. Teaching the dog to pause and wait with the handler once it has
gone through a doorway is also sensible.
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