Mary Allen
Introduction: The Canine Good Citizen Test
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is a certification program designed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to evaluate a dog’s basic obedience and social skills. This test is a great way to assess a dog’s behavior and determine whether they are well-mannered in various situations. It is also a prerequisite for many advanced training programs and therapy dog certifications.
Age and Basic Training Requirements
Dogs of any age can take the CGC test, but they must have basic obedience training before they can be considered. This includes being able to sit, stay, come, and walk on a leash without pulling. The AKC recommends that puppies begin basic obedience training as early as 8 weeks old, so they are prepared for the CGC test when they reach the appropriate age.
Socialization and Temperament
A dog’s socialization and temperament are also important factors in determining whether they are eligible to take the CGC test. The AKC recommends that dogs be socialized with other dogs and people from an early age to ensure they are comfortable in different situations. Dogs must also be friendly, confident, and well-behaved around strangers and other dogs to pass the test.
Obedience Training and Commands
During the CGC test, dogs are evaluated on their obedience skills, including basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Dogs must also be able to perform these commands without a treat or toy as a reward. The AKC also evaluates the dog’s ability to follow instructions from their handler, including responding to voice and hand signals.
Leash Manners and Walking Skills
Dogs are also evaluated on their leash manners and walking skills during the CGC test. This includes walking on a loose leash, not pulling or lunging at other dogs or people, and not jumping up on people. The AKC also evaluates the dog’s ability to walk through a crowd or navigate around obstacles without becoming distracted or aggressive.
Situational Awareness and Distractions
The CGC test evaluates a dog’s ability to remain calm and focused in different situations and around various distractions. Dogs must be able to remain calm when approached by a friendly stranger, remain focused when there are distractions such as food or toys nearby, and not become aggressive or fearful in new or unfamiliar environments.
Understanding Basic Commands in Public
Dogs must also be able to understand and obey basic commands in public during the CGC test. This includes responding to their handler’s commands to sit or stay while in a public setting such as a park or shopping center. Dogs must also be able to ignore distractions such as other dogs or people while performing these commands.
Interaction with Strangers and Other Dogs
Dogs must be able to interact with strangers and other dogs in a friendly and calm manner during the CGC test. This includes being able to approach a friendly stranger without becoming aggressive or fearful and being able to interact with other dogs without becoming overly excited or aggressive.
Accepting Grooming and Handling
Dogs must also be able to accept grooming and handling during the CGC test. This includes being able to tolerate being brushed or touched by a stranger and being able to have their paws and ears handled without becoming aggressive or fearful.
Handling of Unfamiliar Objects and Surfaces
Dogs must also be able to handle unfamiliar objects and surfaces during the CGC test. This includes being able to walk over a variety of surfaces such as stairs or slippery floors and being able to tolerate loud or unusual noises without becoming fearful or aggressive.
Staying Calm During Separation
Finally, dogs must be able to stay calm and relaxed when separated from their handler during the CGC test. This includes being able to remain calm when left with a stranger for a short period and not becoming anxious or destructive when left alone.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Canine Good Citizen Test
Preparing for the CGC test requires a lot of time and effort but is well worth it for the benefits it can bring to both you and your dog. Basic obedience training, socialization, and exposure to different environments are key factors in preparing your dog for the test. With patience, consistency, and plenty of positive reinforcement, you can help your dog become a well-behaved and well-mannered companion that will make you proud during the CGC test and beyond.