Is Your Dog a Good Citizen?

The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program, offered by the American Kennel Club (AKC), is a respected and nationally recognized certification designed to promote responsible pet ownership and well-mannered dogs. Since its inception in 1989, the CGC program has become a benchmark for dog training, providing a structured framework for owners to train their dogs in basic obedience and good behavior. The program’s importance extends beyond pet owners, contributing to safer and more harmonious communities.

The AKC, established in 1884, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of purebred dogs. It maintains a registry of recognized breeds and organizes various events, such as dog shows, agility competitions, and obedience trials. The AKC’s mission encompasses promoting responsible dog ownership, advocating for the health and well-being of all dogs, and protecting the rights of dog owners. The CGC program is a natural extension of these goals, offering a practical pathway for ensuring that dogs are well-behaved members of society. 

Canine Good Citizen Test

The CGC test consists of a ten-step test that evaluates a dog’s ability to perform basic

commands and exhibit good manners in everyday situations. The test includes:

1. Accepting a friendly stranger. The dog must remain calm and polite when approached by a stranger.

2. Sitting politely for petting. The dog should sit calmly and allow petting.

3. Grooming by a nonowner. The dog must tolerate grooming and handling by someone other than its owner.

4. Walking on a loose lead. The dog must walk politely on a leash without pulling.

5. Walking through a crowd. The dog should navigate through a crowd without becoming overly excited or anxious.

6. Obeying commands. The dog must obey the sit and down commands and stay in place as instructed.

7. Coming when called. The dog should come promptly when called by the owner.

8. Reacting calmly to another dog. The dog must remain calm and well-behaved when encountering another dog.

9. Reacting calmly to distractions. The dog should not be unduly startled or anxious in response to common distractions, such as loud noises.

10. Remaining calm under supervised separation. The dog must remain calm when left with a trusted person while the owner is out of sight for a short period.

Successfully passing the CGC test demonstrates that a dog is well-behaved and under the control of its owner, qualities that are essential for any dog living in a community setting.