This is a really terrific program put together by the A.K.C.  It’s fun, it helps bond the owner (handler) and the dog, the dog understands the expectations and can please the one he loves, it is not competition and you are not graded on precision.  It’s your opportunity to say to the world, “I’ve taught my dog to be a good neighbor.”  This is open to purebred and non-purebred dogs.  Organizations such as 4-H Clubs and scouting troops, as well as dog clubs, specialty clubs and obedience clubs, may administer a CGC test.

       To give you an idea about the Canine Good Citizen Program let me explain a little about it.  To begin with, before you even start the testing, the owner has to present a current rabies certificate and any other state or locally required inoculation certification and licenses.

     The first test is how well the dog accepts a friendly stranger.  The friendly stranger (in this case, a judge) is allowed to approach, shake hands with the handler, and have a short conversation.  The dog must not show resentment or shyness, break position, or try to go to the judge.

     The second test shows the dog sitting politely for petting.  While the dog is with its handler, the “friendly stranger” approaches, the dog either is in the standing or sitting position.  The dog must stay still to accept petting.  The dog must not show shyness or resentment.

     The third test is a practicality test.  The dog demonstrates that it will remain in position and accept being groomed or examined not only by the handler, but also by a stranger, that is acceptable to the handler.  How many of us struggle with our dogs at the veterinarian, or the grooming shop?

     The fourth test is a loose leash walking test.  This test demonstrates that the handler walks the dog, not vice versa.

     The fifth test shows the dog walking through a group of people (at least three).  The dog may show interest, but may not lunge, jump, or bark.

     The sixth test demonstrates that the dog has been trained to sit and lay down on command.  They are also to stay in place for a reasonable amount of time.

     The seventh test demonstrates that the dog will come on command, despite some distraction from the judge.

     The eighth test involves another handler and dog team.  The two teams will approach each other, the handlers will stop, shake hands, and have a short conversation.  The dogs are expected to behave politely, and show no more than a casual interest in each other.

     The ninth test demonstrates the dog’s ability to handle distractions.  How about a jogger, jogging in place in front of the dog? Or someone dropping a large book, creating a loud noise?  The dog may be startled, but how does it react after that?  He should not panic, try to run away, or become aggressive.

     The tenth and final test is how well does the dog behaves when forced to be with someone other than the handler.  The judge approaches the dog and handler, asks if the handler would like him to watch his dog.  The handler turns over the leash to the judge and goes out of sight for approximately three minutes.  The dog may show mild agitation or nervousness, but must not continually bark, whine or pace.

     These ten tests may be done in any order.  There are no limits to the age of the handler or the dog.

Have fun!!!