Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Prep and Testing

The American Kennel Club (A.K.C.) has identified ten skills for the Canine Good Citizen (C.G.C.) test which includes appropriately greeting a friendly stranger, sitting politely for petting, welcoming grooming, brushing and handling of paws and ears, leash manners without the use of corrective tools, moving politely through a crowd, responding to commands like sit, down, and stay, exhibiting appropriate behavior around other dogs, being confident with distractions, and being able to stay with a trusted person.

A well-trained dog starts with a well-trained owner!

We can assist in preparing you and your dog for the C.G.C. test. Training will help you develop practical communication skills, recognize stress cues, and build confidence. We will outline appropriate practices according to A.K.C. guidelines to help you refine the required behaviors without the use of force. Working toward the C.G.C. test can bolster trust and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Additional info

Vaccinations Required icon

Evidence of current
vaccinations is required

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Training is offered in group and individual formats

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The A.K.C. does not set a maximum age for this test

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program icon

The A.K.C. recommends enrolling puppies in the A.K.C. S.T.A.R. Puppy Program to prepare for the C.G.C.

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If your puppy has passed the A.K.C. S.T.A.R. Puppy Program they will still need to pass the C.G.C exam

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