AKC Good Citizen Training
We here at CTC are AKC CGC Evaluators. We are able to test you for STAR puppy, CGC, and Trick dog certification.
Canine good citizen training is a great way to show that your dog has basic manners and training. This test is beginning to be so commonplace that many apartments, condos, and even insurance companies are requiring this certification to allow the dogs to live on property and be covered under their policies.
The Canine Good Citizen test is a ten part exam with the following steps:
- Accepting a friendly stranger
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. - Sitting Politely for Petting
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it is out with its handler. - Appearance and Grooming
The dog will permit someone to check it’s ears and front feet, as a groomer or veterinarian would do. - Out for a Walk (walking on a loose lead)
Following the evaluator’s instructions, the dog will walk on a loose lead (with the handler/owner). - Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). - Sit and Down on Command and Staying in Place
The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. - Coming When Called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler (from 10 feet on a leash). - Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries. - Reaction to Distraction
The evaluator will select and present two distractions such as dropping a chair, etc. - Supervised Separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, “Would you like me to watch your dog?” and then take hold of the dog’s leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts (e.g, “there, there, it’s alright”).
These 10 categories present challenges for themselves. As a puppy, the goal will be to raise them up with these expectations and teach them their limits and boundaries while listening and responding appropriately to you, the owner. With an older puppy, however, you face the challenge of changing already ingrained behaviors to be able to change the way your puppy may be used to operating. To relinquish control and understand that he may not be the alpha dog.
This is where I come in. I can come in and give you the tools, tricks, and knowledge to help you guide your dog through the necessary steps to be able to pass these tests with flying colors. While we all work together, we can get your dog earning that coveted blue ribbon and the CGC title behind his name! I am a licensed AKC Evaluator and can help you get through your AKC CGC, Star Puppy, or trick dog certification!
