AKC Evaluator - Joyful Dogs of Michigan - Joyful Dogs of Michigan
AKC Evaluator Services
Classes & Evaluations
Joyful Dogs of Michigan provides AKC evaluation services, including both training and evaluation for AKC titles. Our AKC approved evaluator prepares handler/dog teams to achieve success.
Contact us to sign up for one of these courses
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy class - Saturday, May 9th through Saturday, June 13th, 2026 - noon - 1:00 p.m.
AKC Canine Good Citizen Class = Sunday, May 10th through Sunday June 14th, 2026 - noon - 1:00 p.m.

Although not an AKC class we are now offering a course called "Speaking Dog"
This course teaches how you can understand your dog's language.
It is an invaluable course for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of the way dogs communicate.
What to Expect in an AKC Canine Good Citizen Program
Professional Evaluation
Accurate, standardized evaluation adhering to AKC requirements.
Customized Preparation
Training classes targeted to specific AKC titles.
Confidence-Building
Training to required criteria gives handlers confidence for the final evaluation.
Constructive Feedback
Clear, actionable instruction to address weak points and refine behaviors.
AKC Approved Evaluator
Approved to conduct official AKC evaluations and provide guidance on next steps.
Common AKC Titles
S.T.A.R. Puppy
The first of the titles available to puppies up to one year
Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
Fundamental public manners and reliability
CGCA/CGCU (Advanced & Urban)
Advanced Canine Good Citizen and Canine Good Citizen Urban - public reliability in diverse environments.
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Success Stories
Advanced AKC titles
"A lady in a CGC class saw her dog awarded the AKC S.T.A.R. title and decided to go on to the Canine Good Citizen, AKC Community Canine, and then the
AKC Urban CGC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do you administer official AKC tests?
A: Yes. Our AKC approved evaluator can administer official evaluation as per AKC rules.
Q: How long does preparation take?
A: Our AKC S.T.A.R. puppy and Canine Good Citizen courses are 6 weeks. Trick Dog titles depend on which title you're pursuing.
Q: Can rescue dogs earn AKC titles?
A: Yes. Any dog with an AKC registration (and all dogs can be registered) may earn AKC titles. Rescue dogs represent a large portion of successfully titled teams.
Q: What if we fail an evaluation?
A: Failing is a learning opportunity. After the evaluation, we provide detailed notes on any areas that require additional work. Re-evaluation is scheduled for any dogs not qualifying during an evaluation.
Want to have your dog earn AKC titles and have loads of fun doing it? Try one of the many AKC Family Dog titles that any dog can earn, even your mixed breed baby! From the 4 levels of the AKC Canine Good Citizen starting with S.T.A.R. Puppy through Urban Canine CGC to the 5 AKC Trick dog titles, including the virtual evaluation. We even evaluate the ten skills needed for AKC Virtual Home Manners.
Our AKC approved Evaluators are eager to help your dog earn every title!
Call Joyful Dogs of Michigan at (517) 303-8580 Monday - Saturday - 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sunday - 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
email us at joyfuldogsmichigan@gmail.com
or use the handy form on our Contact page
