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Canine Good Citizen (CGC):

Promoting Responsible Dog Ownership

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The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program, established by the American Kennel Club (AKC), aims to foster responsible dog ownership and encourage well-mannered behavior in dogs.

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What Is the Canine Good Citizen Test?

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The CGC test is a 10-skill evaluation designed to assess a dog's ability to demonstrate good manners in various situations. 

  1. Accepting a friendly stranger

  2. Sitting politely for petting

  3. Accepting grooming or an examination from somebody other than the owner

  4. Walking on a loose leash

  5. Walking politely and under control through a crowd

  6. Sitting and lying down on cue and staying in place

  7. Coming when called

  8. Reacting politely to another dog

  9. Reacting calmly to a distraction (such as a dropped chair)

  10. Reacting calmly to supervised separation from the owner

 

By successfully completing this test, dogs earn the CGC title, signifying their ability to be well-behaved and reliable companions in public settings.

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What are the Requirements for Taking the Canine Good Citizen Test?

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Participating in the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test involves a few essential steps to ensure both the owner and dog are prepared:

  1. Responsible Dog Owner Pledge: Owners must sign the AKC's Responsible Dog Owner Pledge, committing to:

    • Provide routine veterinary care, adequate nutrition, and daily exercise.

    • Ensure the dog's safety through proper control and identification.

    • Clean up after the dog in public spaces and prevent nuisance behaviors.

    • Offer attention, playtime, and a commitment to the dog's well-being .

  2. Leash and Collar Requirements: During the test, dogs must be on a leash. Acceptable equipment includes:

    • Well-fitting buckle or slip collars (including martingales).

    • Body harnesses that do not restrict movement.

    • Leather or fabric leashes.

    • Retractable leashes are not permitted .

  3. Grooming Tools: Owners should bring their dog's regular grooming tools, such as a brush or comb, to facilitate the grooming portion of the test .

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Benefits of the Canine Good Citizen Program

Participating in the CGC program offers numerous advantages:

  • Enhanced Socialization: Dogs learn to interact appropriately with people and other animals, reducing behavioral issues.

  • Increased Confidence: Training and passing the CGC test can boost a dog's confidence, making them more comfortable in various environments.

  • Strengthened Human-Animal Bond: The training process fosters a deeper connection between the dog and its owner.

  • Prerequisite for Advanced Training: The CGC title is often a prerequisite for therapy dog certifications and can serve as a foundation for advanced dog sports and activities.

For more information on the CGC program and to find a test evaluator near you, visit the AKC's official website American Kennel Club.

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