SOUTH CAROLINA POLICE k-9 ASSOCIATION

Obedience

This test is to determine if the police service dog can perform off lead obedience exercise. The test is designed to test the dogs ability and proficiency and the handlers total control over their dog.

Conduct:

Handlers are responsible for their own conduct as well as the conduct of their individual K-9 (s) for the reasons of safety. Handlers are expected to maintain the code of conduct established by the respective organization that they represent. If a matter of disputes arises it shall be the handler’s and Certifying Officials responsibility to bring the matter to the attention of the event coordinator of the association. It is expected that most matters be resolved at lowest level possible. Handlers are expected to maintain control of their K9 (s) at all times. This includes in and out of the training field and around others. Uncontrolled uncorrected K9 aggression towards handlers, K9’s, Certifying Officials, spectators will be considered grounds for dismissal from the certifications.

***This test must be passed before proceeding on to any Patrol phases.***

The obedience test shall be conducted off leash.  The canine team will demonstrate the ability to complete the following exercises:

1.      A heeling phase that will consist of normal pace, a fast pace, and a slow pace.

2.      A minimum of two (2) Left Turns, two (2) Right turns and two (2) About Turns. The distance of each leg will be determined by the certifying officials.

3.      Distance phases that will consist of placing the dog in a down, sit, or stay position while walking and not breaking stride and leaving them in that position. The handler will continue walking to approximately 30 feet away and then turn and come back to the dog, passing the dog and going behind the dog approximately 30 feet before coming back to the dog and picking the dog up in a heel position. They will heel together to the end of the leg and finish with a sit.

The dog will stay while the handler is moving downfield and behind him, but the handler may give one additional command to stay, if necessary.

This exercise will be done all in one test. The choice and the order of command or signals will be at the direction of the certifying officials.

Prohibited Equipment:

At no time during any of the certifications test will sticks, whips, electronic or ultrasonic devices are used.

All tests given to the K9 Team will be on a pass/fail basis. The certifying officials will determine if the team will be certified upon the completion of the test. The handler and dog will be considered as a team and it is the team who will be certified.

If the dog changes handlers, a new team exists and the team will need to be certified.

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Last modified: 05/30/07