American Kennel Club (AKC) Training Programs
Known as the oldest and most respected canine organizations in the US, the American Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) training programs are offered at The Dog Wizard. We help with everything from laying the puppy foundations through the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy training program to earning the prestigious Canine Good Citizen (CGC) title.
Certified AKC Trainers
For Puppies and Adult Dogs
Step-by-Step Certification Support
Why AKC Dog Training Matters
AKC dog training is considered the gold standard in dog behavior and obedience. Training your dog through AKC programs such as S.T.A.R. Puppy or Canine Good Citizen training builds reliability, focus, and trust while strengthening your bond. The training is comprehensive and covers aspects such as:
- Basic manners
- Obedience
- Commands
- Mastering calm and confident behavior in daily life
- And much more.
With an AKC certified dog trainer and a supportive learning environment, your dog will become a well-behaved companion, promoting good community citizenship and responsible dog ownership.
How AKC Training Works
Our process is simple, structured, and designed for progress. From evaluation to certification, each stage brings you closer to a confident, well-mannered dog.
Free Evaluation and Program Match
Meet our AKC-certified dog trainers. Your assigned trainer will assess your dog’s behavior, age, and experience to recommend the right track (S.T.A.R. Puppy, Obedience, or CGC).
Hands-On Classes and Guidance
Attend weekly lessons that focus on manners, leash skills, recall, and public behavior. Our trainers provide real feedback and assign homework tips for home practice.
Certification and Continued Growth
Once your dog masters the skills, we prepare you for AKC testing and help you maintain training through ongoing group classes and lifetime support. We can also evaluate your dog and issue your dog certification.
Our AKC Dog Training Programs
We offer AKC-approved programs such as AKC obedience training, puppy manners training, crate and potty training and more. We help dogs and their owners achieve excellence, no matter what the dog’s age or breed may be. From new puppy foundations to Canine Good Citizen certification, our courses are designed to meet your every goal as an owner, from obedience and social confidence to pursuing official AKC titles.
What Your Dog Will Learn
Ready to be a responsible community citizen, proud of your dog’s manners and good behavior? Solidify that with AKC dog training certification from The Dog Wizard. With us, each class builds skills that last a lifetime. From social manners and advanced obedience under distraction to public confidence, AKC training leads to dogs that are a pleasure to live with and proud to show off. You’ll master
- Leash handling
- Off-leash focus
- Calm greetings
- Recall
- Structured play
Our balanced, reward-based approach ensures learning stays positive and progress remains steady.
Why Choose The Dog Wizard for AKC Training
Magical Methodologies
All of our trainers use balanced training techniques that are proven to be effective in and out of the classroom.
Everywhere Dogs Are
With over 100 locations — the majority of them being mobile — we have the ability to bring balanced dog training right to you.
Trained to Transform
Our knowledgeable trainers complete a rigorous dog training curriculum through The Dog Wizard Academy that teaches them methods that truly work
A Lifetime of Support
Those who complete our obedience programs have access to indefinite group class training support.
Become a Proud AKC Certified Owner
Whether you’re wondering what AKC training is, how to start AKC puppy training, how to earn a Canine Good Citizen title, or even how to register for AKC certification, The Dog Wizard is here to help. We know and deeply recognize that earning an AKC certification is more than recognition. It’s proof of your dog’s manners, obedience, and focus. That’s why our certified trainers support you at every step, from registration to passing evaluations. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to maintain your dog’s training long after graduation. Regardless of what your ultimate goal is, from passing the S.T.A.R. Puppy program or getting certified as a Canine Good Citizen, we’ll help you and your dog reach it together.
AKC Canine Good Citizen and Beyond
Why Balanced Dog Training Works
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) title represents the highest standard in responsible dog ownership. Dogs that pass show confidence, composure, and obedience in public. Once achieved, you can continue with advanced AKC titles like Urban CGC or Community Canine. Looking for professional and helpful AKC dog classes near me? Let our trainers at The Dog Wizard guide you through each requirement, ensuring your dog is fully prepared for testing and success, at home, in parks, or on city streets.
All Dog Breeds Are Welcome
AKC training is open to all breeds, from purebred to all types of mixed breeds, and all age groups. We believe that every dog has the potential to earn AKC titles. Our trainers adapt lessons to your dog’s temperament, ensuring fair, inclusive learning experiences. Whether you’re training a rescue, a family pet, or a show dog, we celebrate every milestone and help you showcase your dog’s unique strengths.
Real Success Stories
Ready to read some of our puppy training testimonials and puppy training success stories? Here’s what some of our puppy parents have to say about working with us:
