Obedience Test (updated 01/01/2025)
This test is to determine
the handler’s ability to control their dog with “Basic Obedience Skills”
that all Police/Professional Service Dogs should possess.
This test MUST be passed before the team
can attempt any other phases of the certification process**.The “Duty Collar” worn by the dog on Patrol can be used
during this test. If an “E Collar” is used,
the handler may NOT have possession of the
controller. The Master Trainer has the
discretion to determine if a collar is inappropriate for use during this test.
**NOTE: Single Purpose Detection Teams may opt out of
the Obedience Certification. If the
Obedience Certification is NOT completed, all detection certification must be
done on lead.
TEST
The test will consist of two
(2) phases:
- Heeling Phase
- Stay Phase
Each phase will be completed “Off-Lead”, and may be performed in any order determined
by the Master Trainer. The test will be judged on a pass/fail
basis.
1) Heeling Phase
This phase of the Obedience test is
to judge the control of the team while heeling. The team will perform a minimum
of two (2) right turns, two (2) left turns and two (2) about turns. The turns
will be performed on leg lengths to be determined by the Master Trainer, but not to exceed 100 feet. The pace of
the heel phase will be determined by the Master Trainer, and shall include at least one (1) change of pace.
2) Stay Phase
This phase of the Obedience test is
to determine if the dog understands the command “Stay”. At a point
designated by the Master Trainer, the handler will
place his/her dog in a “Stay”. This will be
in a “Sit or Down” as determined by the handler. The handler
will then leave their dog in a “Stay”, at a distance
to be determined by the Master Trainer, but
no greater than 100 feet. Upon direction of the Master
Trainer, the handler will turn and face the dog. The handler will
stop and pause, before returning to their dog.
After the handler returns to their dog, they will call
the dog to the “heel” and repeat the process from a
moving “heel”. At the direction of the Master Trainer, the handler will again place their dog
in a “Stay” and continue walking until directed to stop
facing their dog. The handler will wait until directed by the Master Trainer before returning to their dog. This
stay will be for one (1) minute, but no more than two (2) minutes. When
directed by the Master Trainer, the handler will “recall” their dog. While the dog is returning to the
handler, the handler will order the dog to “Stay” by hand or
voice. After a short pause the dog will be recalled to a “heel”.
The Obedience certification will remain in effect for two
(2) years as long as a good standing member with NAPCH and the Team remains
intact.