The American Kennel Club’s® (AKC®) Canine Good Citizen® (CGC®) test was created in 1989 to recognize dogs that are well mannered both in the home and out in society. The idea is to create a standard for responsible pet ownership and outline the basic behaviors every dog should have. Each dog that passes the test is eligible for the AKC CGC title and will receive a passing certificate from the Kennel Club. The test contains 10 elements:
1. Accepting a friendly stranger
2. Sitting politely for petting
3. Appearance and grooming
4. Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)
5. Walking through a crowd
6. Sit and down on command and staying in place
7. Coming when called
8. Reaction to another dog
9. Reaction to distraction
10. Supervised separation
From people wanting to pet him (steps 1 and 2) to the vet and groomer who need to handle him (step 3), and how your dog handles crowds and loud noises (step 9), each of these ten steps is designed to simulate an everyday experience your dog might encounter.
The CGC is the fastest growing program for the AKC; more than half a dozen other countries have adopted programs based of the good citizen program. Recently, AKC added the AKC Community Canine® title. This more advanced title tests the dog in a natural setting (for example, a real crowd at a pet store) versus in a ring. (www.akc.org)
Getting a new puppy? Check out our comprehensive new puppy checklist!
Why is the CGC Important?
Even if you care nothing about titles, the CGC is something every responsible dog owner should work towards. Even if you never take the test, making sure your dog has these skills will make your life easier. Today’s dogs face a lot more than their ancestors – elevators, crowded malls, airplanes, loud machinery, dog parks, daycare, etc. None of this is natural to your dog and a lot of dogs are incapable of handling these types of situations appropriately. If your dog masters the elements in the CGC test, they can help him survive in our dense, sometimes over-populated, urban forest.
How do I Prepare my Dog to Pass the CGC?
Some training facilities offer CGC classes that help you practice the behaviors needed to pass the test. If you are ready by the end of the class, you can take the test and get your certificate. Do not get frustrated if you do not past the first time. Just practice some more and try again!
The test is performed on leash, without the aid of pinch collars, head halters, or front clip harnesses. This is to prove your dog really is well behaved, and not just minding because of the threat of punishment or through the use of a “device.”
If you have a puppy, start them out with the AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Program. It is a simpler version of the CGC for puppies under one year old that have taken an obedience class taught by an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator.
For more information visit the American Kennel Club website.
Toledo, United States.
