AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test
Manners and a title!
The CGC Test is to demonstrate that the dog as a companion of man, can be a respected member of the community, and can be trained and conditioned to always behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect credit on the dog.
To qualify, a dog must pass each of the ten test categories listed below.
Please Note: CGC is now an official AKC title and will now appear on a dog's registration certificate or pedigree. It is meant to reward dogs for having good manners, which enhances public acceptance of dogs. It is the first AKC program ever opened to non-purebred dogs
To obtain a CGC title, the dog must successfully pass the following tests. HiDOC's CGC class prepares dog and owner for the evaluation test so come join our next class!
CGC Test Elements
Accepting a friendly stranger
Accepting a Friendly Stranger - Demonstrate that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the Evaluator.
Sitting Politely for Petting
Sitting Politely for Petting - Demonstrate that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler.
Appearance and Grooming
Appearance and Grooming - Demonstrate that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit a stranger, to do so. It also demonstrates the owners care, concern and responsibility.
Out for a Walk (walking on loose leash)
Out for a Walk (walking on loose leash) - Demonstrate that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive and is responding to the handlers movements and changes of direction. The dog need not be in the "heel position" and need not sit when the handler stops.
Walking Through a Crowd
Walking Through a Crowd - Demonstrate 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 persons (at least 3). The dog may show some interest in the strangers, without appearing over exuberant, shy or resentful. The dog should not be straining at the leash.
Sit and Down on Command/Staying in Place
Sit and Down on Command/Staying in Place - Demonstrate that the dog has training, will respond to the handlers commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The handler may not force the dog into either position. The handler may use more than one command.
Coming when Called
Coming when Called - Demonstrate that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler may use body language and encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to "stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog as the evaluator provides mild distractions.
Reaction to Another Dog
Reaction to Another Dog - Demonstrate that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. The dogs should demonstrate no more than casual interest. Neither dog should go to the other dog or handler.
Reactions to Distractions
Reactions to Distractions - Demonstrate that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The dog may express natural interest and curiosity, may startle but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark.
Supervised Separation
Supervised Separation - Demonstrate that the dog can be left alone, if necessary, and will maintain its training and good manners. The dog should not continually bark, whine, howl or pace unnecessarily or show anything other than mild agitation or nervousness.