The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is pleased to announce that the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program will become an official AKC title in January 2025. This means that dogs who are registered or enrolled with AKC may have AKC S.T.A.R Puppy listed on their title records.
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy was launched in 2008 to get puppies and their owners off to a great start. S.T.A.R. stands for Socialization, Training, Activity, and a Responsible owner. The program requires that owners attend a 6-weeks long basic training class with their puppies. At the conclusion of the class, there is a 20-item test including owner and puppy behaviors and good manners skills.
“We are so excited to recognize AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy as an official title,” says Mary Burch, PhD, Director of the AKC Family Dog Program. “This program is an important start for building your puppy’s skills leading to the development of a well-rounded dog.”
Dogs can participate in AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy up to one year of age, and all puppies who pass the test can receive a certificate and gold AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy medal.
Get your puppy’s first official training title in an AKC S.T.A.R Puppy class near you. For more information, click here.