Requirement 1: Do the following:

Requirement 1a: Briefly discuss the historical origin and domestication of the dog.

Requirement 1b: Describe some common characteristics of the dogs that make up each of the seven major dog groups.

Requirement 1c: Tell some specific characteristics of seven breeds of dogs (one from each major group), OR give a short history of one breed.

Requirement 2: Point out on a dog or a sketch at least 10 body parts. Give the correct name of each one.

Requirement 3: Do the following:

Requirement 3a: Explain the importance of house-training, obedience training, and socialization training for your dog.

Requirement 3b: Explain what "responsible pet ownership" means.

Requirement 3c: Explain what issues (including temperament) must be considered when deciding on what breed of dog to get as a family pet.

Requirement 4: For two months, keep and care for your dog. Maintain a log of your activities during this period that includes these items: feeding schedule, types of food used, amount fed, exercise periods, training schedule, a weekly body weight record, grooming and bathing schedules, veterinary care, if necessary, and costs. Also include a brief description of the type of housing/shelter arrangements you have for your dog.

Requirement 5: Explain the correct way to obedience train a dog and what equipment you would need. Show with your dog any three of these commands: "come," "sit," "down," "heel," "stay," "fetch" or "get it," and "drop it."

Requirement 6: Do the following.

Requirement 6a: Discuss the proper vaccination schedule for a dog in your area from puppyhood through adulthood.

Requirement 6b: Discuss the control methods for preventing fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites (worms) for a dog in your area from puppyhood through adulthood.

Requirement 6c: Explain the importance of dental care and tooth brushing to your pet's health.

Requirement 6d: Discuss the benefits of grooming your dog's coat and nails on a regular basis.

Requirement 6e: Discuss with your counselor any seasonal conditions (like hot summers, cold winters, or extreme humidity) where you live that need to be considered for your dog.

Requirement 6f: Discuss with your counselor the considerations and advantages of spaying or neutering your dog.

Requirement 7: Do the following:

Requirement 7a: Explain precautions to take in handling a hurt dog.

Requirement 7b: Show how to put on an emergency muzzle.

Requirement 7c: Explain how to treat wounds. Explain first aid for a dog bite.

Requirement 7d: Show how to put on a simple dressing and bandage the foot, body, or head of your dog.

Requirement 7e: Explain what to do if a dog is hit by a car.

Requirement 7f: List the things needed in every dog owner's first-aid kit.

Requirement 7g: Tell the dangers of home treatment of a serious ailment.

Requirement 7h: Briefly discuss the cause and method of spread, the signs and symptoms and the methods of prevention of rabies, parvovirus, distemper, and heartworms in dogs.

Requirement 8: Visit a veterinary hospital or an animal shelter and give a report about your visit to your counselor.

Requirement 9: Know the laws and ordinances involving dogs that are in force in your community.

Requirement 10: Learn about three career opportunities for working with dogs. Pick one and find out about the education, training, and experience required for this career, and discuss this with your counselor. Tell why this profession interests you.