You’ve got a dog that’s well-behaved, but you wish you had a way to quickly convince people of this fact. Something a little more official than saying, “I promise he’s a good boy!”
To meet this demand, the AKC came up with the Canine Good Citizen test about 25 years ago, and it’s been pretty popular ever since. The test is open to all dogs, regardless of background or “pedigree.”
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Training Fresno
Earning the title requires passing a 10-step test, which is pretty straightforward but also tough enough to make the accomplishment meaningful. To pass, the dog needs to be accepting of strangers, other dogs and common distractions found in the community, as well as trained in basic obedience.
The AKC also requires that you “sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge attesting to having the dog under the routine care of a veterinarian who will work with the owner to determine an appropriate plan and schedule for vaccines and other health care procedures.” Here’s a bit more from the AKC, showing many of the steps.
The AKC has certified a select group of trainers to perform the testing and the training. (At Dogspring, CGC work can be added to our basic obedience training.)
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Here is a list of the steps you’ll need to master. (If your dog is not there yet, we can help you with each of these.) The wording comes straight from the CGC website, though I have condensed the descriptions.
TEST 1: ACCEPTING A FRIENDLY STRANGER
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation… The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness.
TEST 2: SITTING POLITELY FOR PETTING
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler.
TEST 3: APPEARANCE AND GROOMING
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so.
TEST 4: OUT FOR A WALK (WALKING ON A LOOSE LEAD)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. The dog’s position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handler’s movements and changes of direction.
TEST 5: WALKING THROUGH A CROWD
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places.
TEST 6: SIT AND DOWN ON COMMAND AND STAYING IN PLACE
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler’s commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers).
TEST 7: COMING WHEN CALLED
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler.
TEST 8: REACTION TO ANOTHER DOG
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs.
TEST 9: REACTION TO DISTRACTION
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations.
TEST 10: SUPERVISED SEPARATION
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Some common questions:
Does this certify my dog as a therapy dog?
It does not, though it often a requirement for getting such a designation. It’s a great first step in that direction.
Will this help me find a rental that takes my dog?
With reasonable landlords, it often will. Many rental complexes base their decisions purely on size or breed, however, and in those instances it might not make much of a difference. (I don’t like these rules any more than you do!)
Do I need to take a special class as part of the process?
Not necessarily. Some trainers will offer the test as a stand-alone. But most who pass the test have utilized professional training in the process. We don’t generally offer the test to non-clients, but you can join our Dogspring email list to be alerted of any upcoming opportunities.
What if I fail the test?
Your evaluator will tell you which areas need work, and after addressing these issues, you can re-take the test.
Where can I find a qualified trainer to help with CGC work?
We’re located in the Fresno/Clovis area, and we’d love for you to contact us if you’re nearby. If not, here’s where you can find a trainer or evaluator in your area.