The Canine Good Citizen program was designed in response to the anti-canine sentiment gaining momentum in society today. Mixed breeds are eligible to participate (at non-AKC events), since the anti-canine population does not discriminate between the pure-bred and non pure-bred dog. The program was launched by the American Kennel Club in September, 1989. The purpose of the Canine Good Citizen Test is to demonstrate that the dog, as a companion of main, can be a respected member of the community.
Purpose: The purpose of the Canine Good Citizen Test (CGC) is to demonstrate that the dog, as a companion of man, can be a respected member of the community, and can be trained and conditioned always to behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect credit on the dog. The CGC Test is not a competitive program, but rather a program of certification; it seeks to identify and recognize officially those dogs that possess the attributes that enable them to serve effectively as personal companions and as members in good standing with the community.
Sponsor: Any AKC Club of record or any other qualified dog training organization, may hold a CGC Test.
Evaluators (judges): There may be up to 3 persons passing judgement on the dogs entered. Evaluating the dog: The Evaluator must have considerable knowledge of dog behavior, he must have experience in the working and training of dogs as well as a keen awareness of the public's attitude toward dogs. Before the Evaluator passes the dog it should be considered if this is:
1. The kind of dog you would like to own.
2. The kind of dog that would be safe with children.
3. The kind of dog that you would welcome as a neighbor.
4. The kind of dog that makes its owner happy and isn't making someone else unhappy.
Qualifying: Dogs will be evaluated on the basis of Pass-Fail. In order to quality for the Canine Good Citizen Award a dog must pass each of the ten test categories. The Dog need only to pass this test once in order to receive a CGC certificate. Any dog that eliminates during testing must be marked failed.
Dismissal: Any dog which growls, snaps, bites, attacks or attempts to attach any person or another dog shall be dismissed from the test. Any handler who displays unsportsmanlike conduct or who is seen to kick, strike or otherwise roughly manhandle a dog at any time during a test shall be dismissed from the test.
TEST: (Note: All tests are performed on a leash.)
1) Appearance & Grooming. Demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit a stranger such as a veterinarian or his assistant or someone other than the owner to do so.
2) Accepting a Stranger. The evaluator and handler will shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go for the Evaluator.
3) Walking on Loose Lead or Out for a Walk. Demonstrates that the handler is in control. The dog must be on the left side of the handler. The dog need not be in the "heel position" as required by AKC Obedience Tests.
4) Walk through a Crowd. Demonstrates that the dog should have no difficulty in moving about in pedestrian traffic. The dog and handler will walk around and pass close to several persons (at least 3). The dog may show some interest in the strangers, but should continue to walk with the handler without evidence of shyness or resentment. The dog should not be straining at the leash.
5) Sit for Exam. Demonstrates that the dog will allow the approach of a stranger and permit petting. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.
6) Sit and Down on Command. Demonstrates that the dog has had some formal training and will respond to the handler's command. The evaluator must determine if the dog does respond to the handler's command. The handler may no force the dog into either position. The handler may use more than one command.
7) Stay in Position (Sit or Down). Demonstrates that the dog will assume and remain in the position commanded by the handler. The dog must maintain the position in which it was left until the handler returns and until the Evaluator instructs the handler to release the dog.
8) Reaction to Another Dog. Demonstrates proper behavior when in the presence of other dogs. The dogs should demonstrate no more than casual interest. Neither dog should do to the other dog or handler.
9) Reactions to Distractions. Demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with distracting conditions. The dog may express natural interest and curiosity, may startle but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness or bark.
10) Dog Left Alone. Demonstrates that the dog may be left along, demonstrating training and good manners. The dog should not bark, whine, howl or pace unnecessarily or register anything other than mild agitation or nervousness.
NOTE: Before performing this requirements, the dog's owner must present a current rabies certificate and any other state or locally required inoculation certificates and license.
(Taken from AKC information supplied for these tests.)