Rooted in Service. Open to Everyone.
The Good Paws Veterans Program is a core part of our mission. It exists because we believe that the discipline, focus, and partnership inherent in high-level dog training provide a powerful bridge to civilian life and community accomplishment.
Paid civilian training directly supports these efforts, allowing us to offer foundational CGC preparation to local veterans at no tuition cost. Whether you are former military or a civilian neighbor, you are training with a purpose that extends beyond your own leash.
A Goal Worth Working Toward
The AKC Canine Good Citizen program is more than just a certification; it's a meaningful achievement for every dog owner. We prepare you for the test, helping you build the skills and confidence to prove your dog is a good citizen. This milestone is the beginning of a journey toward greater partnership and shared accomplishment.
Pathways to Progress
Build a strong foundation, practice useful skills, and choose the next step that fits you and your dog.
Welcome & Readiness
Tell us about your dog, your everyday goals, and what you need help with. We’ll discuss an appropriate starting point.
Companion Foundations
Work on everyday manners, handling skills, and preparation for the Canine Good Citizen evaluation.
CGC Evaluation
Put your skills to the test when your team is ready. Results guide what to practice next.
A planned follow-up option for maintaining skills, addressing everyday challenges, and discussing useful next steps.
Companion Plus
In Development
More training. Only when it makes sense.
Community Confidence — AKC Community Canine (CGCA)
Urban Confidence — AKC Urban CGC (CGCU)
Working Partnership Review — Optional, role-specific assessment
A well-trained companion is a complete success.
Training for Savannah
45 min
75 US dollars
1 hr
100 US dollars
Starts Jan 7, 2027
150 US dollarsLoading availability...
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Starts Feb 18, 2027
150 US dollarsLoading availability...
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Veterans and civilian participants use the same core training and educational system. Veteran-specific access is handled separately through the Good Paws veteran program.
Training Continues Between Sessions
Good Paws combines coached training with online education, guided practice, and private cohort resources so you know what to work on between classes and why it matters.
Learn Between Sessions
Short online lessons reinforce the skills covered in class and help owners understand the training process—not just memorize exercises.
Practice With a Plan
Use structured practice goals, homework, and reference material to keep training consistent throughout the week.
Train With Your Cohort
Enrolled teams receive access to private cohort resources where they can get updates, share progress, ask questions, and stay connected throughout the course.
Training Blog
Practical guidance for building better communication, stronger everyday skills, and a more capable companion dog. Explore puppy foundations, Canine Good Citizen preparation, owner education, and life between classes.
Train your dog. Back a veteran.
A portion of paid non-veteran training revenue helps provide introductory Canine Good Citizen training for veterans and their dogs at no tuition cost.
Better everyday companions are the goal. Additional training is a choice.
