NY S04896

Requires owners of dogs reaching one year of age to successfully complete a basic obedience course with their dog on or before the dog's first birthday, or within 180 days of receiving ownership, whichever is later.

Directs the commissioner of agriculture and markets to establish requirements for basic obedience courses, including instruction on dog training principles and hands-on practice for both dogs and owners, as well as minimum standards for course completion.

Authorizes dog obedience schools to provide the required courses and issue completion certificates to owners, who then receive a yellow metal tag from licensing clerks to be affixed to the dog's collar at all times.

Makes failure to complete the obedience course a violation of state law and establishes it as an unlicensed dog offense.

Applies statewide except in cities with populations over two million, with the obedience training requirement taking effect one year after the law becomes effective.