Kindred Hound Training proudly offers a variety of American Kennel Club (AKC) programs designed to help you build a confident, well-mannered dog and earn official recognition for your hard work. Each program is a positive milestone that celebrates your training progress and prepares you and your dog for real-world success.

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy

6 week prep course - $180

Testing Fee - $20

Socialization, Training, Activity, and Responsibility — the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is the perfect first step for young pups and new puppy owners.
This course focuses on building good manners, basic skills, and healthy social habits during your puppy’s critical learning period. At the end of the course, you’ll have the option to take the S.T.A.R. Puppy Test. Puppies who pass earn an official AKC certificate and a great foundation for future training.

AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

6 week prep course - $200

Testing Fee - $20

The CGC is the gold standard for good manners at home and in the community. This program teaches and tests your dog’s ability to behave politely around people, other dogs, and everyday distractions. Many dog-friendly apartments, communities, and therapy dog programs look for CGC certification as proof of reliable behavior.

AKC Community Canine (CGCA)

6 week prep course - $200

Testing Fee - $20

Take your CGC skills into the real world.
The Community Canine, or CGCA, is the advanced level of the CGC program. It focuses on reliable obedience and polite behavior in public places with more distractions — like parks, sidewalks, and busy areas. This is an excellent next step for dogs who have mastered their CGC.

AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU)

6 week prep course - $200

Testing Fee - $20

For dogs living their best city or town life.
The Urban CGC tests your dog’s manners and confidence in a city or town environment — think crossing streets, ignoring traffic, riding elevators, and calmly walking through crowds. It’s a fun way to prove your dog can handle urban adventures with grace.

AKC Trick Dog

6 week prep course - $200

Testing Fee - $20

Add a little fun to your training!
The AKC Trick Dog program rewards you and your dog for learning and performing tricks. It’s a fantastic way to keep your dog mentally engaged and to strengthen your bond. There are different trick levels, so you can start simple and build up to impressive routines!

Earn Your Dog’s Next Title!

Kindred Hound Co offers prep courses and official testing for all of these AKC programs. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up, we’ll help you and your dog feel confident and prepared every step of the way.