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Dog owners are not always aware of everything they could be doing to improve the lives of their pets. One thing many might not know about is the Canine Good Citizen Test and what it could mean for their dogs.
The Canine Good Citizen test helps promote responsible behavior for dog owners, as well as teach proper training for dogs so they are well-mannered and easy-going around other dogs and people.
The Canine Good Citizen test (CGC) proves that your dog can remain well-mannered in public and be a good canine citizen!
The Canine Good Citizen test is an evaluation established by the American Kennel Club.
What many don’t realize is that it is actually an evaluation for both a dog and his or her owner. Owners must be able to handle their dog well, while the dog must behave in an appropriate manner as he or she is tested in a variety of circumstances and environments.
The Canine Good Citizen test is essentially a behavioral evaluation. Those who pass the Canine Good Citizen Test earn a certificate showing they passed. Some dogs may even continue training to become therapy dogs.
There are a few requirements for taking the Canine Good Citizen test.
First, owners must sign a Responsible Dog Owner Pledge. This pledge states that the owner will take good care of their dog, tend to their health needs, provide their dog with adequate exercise and training, and must promise to keep their dog safe and care for them throughout their lives. As dog lovers, I think that’s a pretty easy pledge for most of us to make!
Owners must also agree to be a responsible dog owners by always cleaning up after their dog in public and promise to not let their dog infringe on the rights of others.
The other requirement for taking the Canine Good Citizen Test is that the dog must be on a leash, with a collar that fits well and is not too tight. Owners should also bring their dog’s brush or comb that will be used during one of the testing tasks.
Owners may sign up to take the Canine Good Citizen Test with the American Kennel Club.
Each state has its own selection of locations where a Canine Good Citizen Test may be taken. Owners may look online at the American Kennel Club website to find nearby locations. These tests are typically held at dog training clubs throughout the state, and are only offered at select times.
Dogs pass the Canine Good Citizen Test by completing a series of 10 challenges. The challenges include:
The dog must allow a friendly stranger to approach and speak to the dog’s owner. The evaluator will approach the dog and owner naturally, and will greet the owner while ignoring the dog. The owner and evaluator will shake hands and have a quick conversation. The dog must not ask nervous or shy.
