AKC Evaluator - Joyful Dogs of Michigan - Joyful Dogs of Michigan

AKC Evaluator Services

Classes & Evaluations in Lansing, MI

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.


The AKC Canine Good Citizen titles are all part of the AKC Family Dog Program. Additional titles include AKC Virtual Home Manners and all levels of the AKC Trick Dog titles include Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Trick Dog Performer, and Trick Dog Elite





liminated by understanding how your dog "talks." Call to sign up for this important course.


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Why AKC Evaluation Matters

AKC evaluations and titles verify a dog’s training level, and suitability for all (legal) public access. Earning AKC titles demonstrates commitment to training, validates reliability under various conditions, and demonstrates achievement of the handler/dog teams.

Proper preparation ensures the team understands test criteria and can perform consistently during evaluation.

What to Expect in an AKC Canine Good Citizen Program

Professional Evaluation

Accurate, standardized evaluation aligned with AKC requirements.

Customized Preparation

Training classes targeted to specific AKC titles.

Confidence-Building

Training in 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.

AKC Services Offered

AKC Evaluation : Official evaluation for AKC Family Dog Program, Trick Dog, and Virtual Home Manners titles.

Group training: Classes for the AKC Family Dog Program that mirror the final evaluation to build confidence and familiarity with required behaviors.

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.

A couple and a dog in an indoor training facility; the woman holds a certificate, and the man pets the dog.

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 tests 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 - 10 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.


Contact & Next Steps

To discuss AKC Family Dog Program courses and AKC Trick Dog training please call Joyful Dogs of Michigan at (517) 303-8580.

AKC titles are milestones that reflect dedication, training skill, and teamwork. Joyful Dogs’ experienced evaluator helps teams meet the requirements with constructive coaching, honest feedback, and practical preparation.

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Hours

Monday–Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

 Sundays 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.