Dog Scouts: It’s Not Just for Humans Anymore

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Be prepared… to have a great time with your dog at Dog Scouts of America. Does your dog have what it takes to earn badges and learn important skills?

Many boys of school age join the boy scouts where they learn important skills and life lessons. Being a boy scout can be a transformative thing for a young boy and it can teach him lessons he will apply to the rest of his life. Now there is an opportunity for you and your dog to have a similar experience becoming part of a troop, going to summer camp, and earning badges – it’s called Dog Scouts.

What is Dog Scouts?

The Dog Scouts of America (DSA) was founded in 1995 as a non-profit organization for people dedicated to enriching their own lives as well as the lives of other people with dogs. In addition to providing opportunities for dog owners to spend quality time with their dogs, DSA exists to helping both dogs and their owners learn new skills.

Related:6 Life Lessons Your Dog Can Teach You

The DSA believes that “working dogs want to work” and dogs who don’t have the opportunity to work off their excess energy are more prone to developing problem behaviors. The DSA provides an opportunity to help dog owners better understand the way their dogs think and what drives his behavior. They also aim to develop their members into more responsible dog owners.

What Can You Do with the Dog Scouts?

When you join the Dog Scouts you have unlimited opportunities to learn and grow with your dog. Joining the DSA, however, doesn’t mean that your dog automatically becomes a Dog Scout – he must first pass the Dog Scout certification test. Until your dog passes the test, he will be classified as a “Cadet Scout” and all you need for this title is to pledge to uphold the Dog Scout Laws and for both you and your dog to conduct yourselves in a manner befitting a title of Dog Scout.

You can work with a certified Scoutmaster or by video to meet the criteria and, once your dog passes the test, he will be given an official DSA bandana, a photo I.D. card, and his very first merit badge – the “Dog Scout” badge.

Related:Can Dogs Be Racist?

Any dog can become a Dog Scout as long as he meets the certification requirements. The DSA doesn’t discriminate against any breeds but each dog must pass a test to prove that the owner is responsible and that the dog is not a danger to humans or other dogs.

Once your dog has been certified as a Dog Scout you have the option to earn more merit badges. The easiest way to earn badges is to attend Dog Scout Camp where certified DSA instructors will lead you and your dog through a variety of activities to earn certifications for new badges. Some of the badges you and your dog can earn include the following:

    If you are looking for a way to spend more time with your dog, building a stronger bond, Dog Scouts of America might be just what you’ve been looking for. Find a local troop and sign up to start enjoying this wonderful opportunity. Both you and your dog are sure to love it.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    You May Like

    Bichpoo

    Also known as a Poochon or Bichon Poodle, the Bichpoo is a mix of a Bichon Frise and a Toy (or Miniature) poodle. He has a small but sturdy stature.
    Ask the Hairy Dogfathers: Unleashed Dog a Neighborhood Menace

    A neighbor''s unleashed dog is wreaking havoc on walks and leaving a mess in its wake. The Hairy Dogfathers know just what to say to curb this nasty habit.
    French Angora Rabbit

    The French Angora Rabbit is a docile, sweet rabbit who love to hop around freely, whether indoors or out. They have a long list of coat colors and markings.
    CleverPet Game Console Is “Woof-Fi” Fun For Your Dog

    One of the latest dog toys that''s blowing my mind is the CleverPet Dog Game Console. It entertains and educates dogs while you''re away from home
    Gar

    Characterized by their long bodies and similarly elongated jaws, gar are kept in large aquariums and require very specialized care by experienced aquarists.
    Dach Griffon

    The spunky, cheerful, and bubbly Dach Griffon is a new designer dog, developed by crossing the Dachshund with Brussels Griffon.
    Flea Repellent Dog Treat Recipe

    Garlic powder goes a long way in this Flea Repellent Dog Treat Recipe. Garlic has many health benefits for people and dogs, and it helps keep fleas away.
    Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Spike

    Let’s head up north to meet Spike, our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Spike is a 1-year-old Shepherd mix from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He is neutered and…
    Malaysian “I Want To Touch A Dog” Event A Surprise Success

    Muslim men, women and children flocked to canine-friendly event to learn more about dogs In our culture, dogs have long been welcomed into our homes and cons…
    What You Should Know About Feline Pancreatitis

    A serious condition that needs immediate attention from a veterinarian, know what to look for in case your cat suffers from pancreatitis.
    Berger Picard

    The Berger Picard is considered to be France''s oldest sheepdog. Like most breeds of sheepdog, they are lively, intelligent, vigilant and assertive.
    Man And His Dog Walk 1200 Miles For Cancer — And You Can Help

    Roland Frasier and Wags are walking for a wonderful cause Losing a spouse is devastating. It’s a reality Roland Frasier knows all too well — he l…
    Feline-Inspired Interactive Gallery Is Popping Up In NYC

    The Cats on Glass Gallery, presented by Fresh Step Clean Paws, is an interactive pop-up exhibition that will wow all cat enthusiasts.
    Treeing Tennessee Brindle

    If you are looking for an intelligent dog with a unique appearance and advanced hunting skills, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle may be the right dog for you.
    Dalmatian

    Often associated as the kind of dogs who help firemen and police, the Dalmatian is a notoriously good workers and are known as an assertive, friendly breed.