The purpose of the Canine good Citizen Test is to ensure that our favorite companion, the dog, can be a respected member of the community because it is trained and conditioned to act mannerly in the home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs. The program embraces both purebred and mixed-breed dogs, as the anti-canine sentiment does not discriminate between the purebred and the non-purebred.
Canine Good Citizen training is fun and useful. Through it, you and your dog will establish a closer bond and your dog will have the added benefit of knowing how to please you. This test of your dog’s manners and training is not a competition and does not require that you and your dog perform with precision.
The Canine Good Citizen program is based on the concept that all dogs should have enough basic training to be under control at home and in public.
The American Kennel club urges all dog owners to participate in this program, thereby assuring that our beloved dogs will always be welcomed and respected members of the community.
All dogs who pass the ten items on the CGC test earn a certificate from the AKC.
Dogs should wear well-fitting buckle or slip collars made of leather, fabric or chain. Special training collars, such as pinch collars are not acceptable.
DEMONSTRATING CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL, THE DOG MUST COMPLETE 10 STEPS.
1. Accepting a friendly stranger
2. Sitting politely for petting
3. Appearance and grooming
4. Out for a walk (walking on a loose leash)
5. Walking through a crowd
6. Sit and down on command/staying in place
7. Coming when called
8. Reaction to another dog
9. Reaction to distractions
10. Supervised separation
For more information and detailed explanations of the 10 steps visit www.akc.org
