AKC Canine Good Citizen Test
Equipment: You will need to bring your dog’s own brush or comb. In the CGC test dogs must wear a buckle collar or slip collar.
Accepting a Friendly Stranger: The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation
Sitting Politely for Petting: The dog will allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it is out with its handler
Appearance and Grooming: The Dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend, to do so.
Out for a Walk (Walking on Loose Leash): The handler/dog team will take a short “walk” to show that the dog is in control while walking on a leash.
Walking Through a Crowd: The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people to demonstrate that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places.
<Sit> and <Down> Command/ Staying in Place: The dog will respond to the handler’s commands to 1) SIT 2) DOWN and will 3) remain in place commanded by handler.
Coming When Called: The dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 ft from dog, turn to face dog, and call the dog.
Reaction to Another Dog: To demonstrate that the dog can behave politely around other dogs, two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 ft, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10ft.
Reaction to Distractions: To demonstrate the dog is confident when faced with common distracting situations, the evaluator will select and present two distractions. Examples include dropping a chair, or a jogger passing by.
Supervised Separation: This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like “would you like me to hold your dog?” then take dogs leash. Owners will go out of sight for three minutes.
Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge: You will be asked to sign a pledge before you and your dog go through the test. This includes responsibility for health needs, dog’s safety, not allowing your dog to infringe on the rights of others and responsibility for your dogs quality of life.