The Confident Puppy

The Confident Puppy Course draws on the combined expertise of the AKC Detection Dog Task Force and the Patriotic Puppy Program to help dog owners, breeders, trainers, and puppy raisers develop resilient, well-socialized, and confident puppies. It provides practical, science-based education designed to support both future working dogs and well-rounded family companions.

Developed in partnership with AKC Public Education/Canine College staff, this seven-session e-learning course distills key lessons from the DDTF and Patriotic Puppy Program into an accessible format for all dog owners.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore seven core areas of puppy development that set the foundation for success—whether aiming for a career in detection work or simply raising an exceptional pet. Each session explains what these areas are, why they matter, and how to apply them in everyday training and socialization.

• August 2022 – AKC Patriotic Puppy Program Builds Confidence With New Course
• June 2022 – Now Available Online: Latest Detection Dog Webinar: 9 – 12 Month Puppies, Getting Started Right For Detection Work
• March 2022 – Detection Dog Task Force Launches The Confident Puppy e-Learning Course (Blog & click link to view recording)
• January 19, 2022 – AKC DDTF Webinar Series – Industry Experts Discuss Key Factors in Raising 6-9 Month Puppies for Detection (Blog & click link to view recording)
• November 2021 – AKC DDTF Webinar Series – Recap and Recording: Dogs that Work Need Diets that Work (Blog & click link to view recording)
• September 2021 – Click here to view a promotional video of the Patriotic Puppy Program – https://akc.tv/watch/23/6733/collection-video/akc-ppp-promo
• August 31, 2021 – AKC DDTF Webinar Series – Webinar Highlights Essential Qualities at 3 – 6 Months for Future Detection Dogs (Blog & click link to view recording)
• January 6, 2021 – AKC DDTF Webinar Series – “Getting Puppies Started Right for Detection:  Experts Compare and Contrast Successful Approaches.” Click here to view a recording

Other Educational Resources:

• Expert Advice and Insight – Browse blogs by subject matter below and in the left navigation. See below for the most recent blogs.