The Canine Good Citizen Test, or CGC, is an examination conducted by the American Kennel Club. Passing this test will allow you to have a well-behaved dog not only at home but also when in different environments. It also shows that you, the owner, have been determined enough to train your dog and give it the attention it needs to have a well-behaved dog.
The benefits of the CGC Certification are many. Probably the one that you will enjoy the most is the fact that you will have a well-trained dog that you can take anywhere with confidence. Your dog can enter the CGC designation after his name. Your insurance company might even allow your dog to be one of the breeds they don’t normally allow under your homeowners insurance coverage.
Very often I am asked what to expect during the test. Well, the test is actually made up of 10 different tests. The test will be administered by a person who has been designated as a CGC evaluator by the American Kennel Club.
The test requires the help of other people and dogs in order to thoroughly assess your dog. You are allowed to pet and encourage your dog, however no food, treats or toys will be allowed during the test.
There are several different things that can cause you and your dog to be disqualified. For example, a dog cannot urinate or defecate during the test. Any dog that does will fail the test. If your dog displays any type of aggression, including growling, it will also be immediately discarded.
Scoring is a simple pass or fail. You and your dog must pass all 10 tests to be able to come out with the CGC certificate.
Getting CGC certified should give any dedicated dog owner a reason to work and train their dog. Most therapy dog organizations require the CGC title for membership in their organization. You could also allow a hotel owner or innkeeper to allow their special dog to be a welcome occupant or guest.
Take a look at akc.org for more information.
If you are a trainer wanting to become an AKC CGC evaluator, be sure to contact the American Kennel Club to see if you meet the requirements.