Obedience Test

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:

1. Heeling Phase
2. 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.