Canine Good Citizen Book
The
American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen Test
The Canine Good Citizen Test (CGCT) encourages owner responsibility. To earn this award
a dog must pass a ten-part test. The dog must also show good overall behavior at the test site, and
his/her owner must sign a
written pledge of responsible dog ownership.
Sponsored
by clubs and trainers across the country, you could probably be tested
right in your own town. Your dog must be licensed, vaccinated,
well mannered, and show no signs of fearful or aggressive behavior.
While it may be frightening to "get your feet wet," this
could be a good entry-level introduction to the world of AKC events.
The
Canine Good Citizen Award is not a title but a certificate, and it is
awarded to those dogs who pass the test. It
involves:
1.
Accepting the approach of a friendly stranger.
2.
Sitting politely for petting.
3.
Appearance and grooming will be checked by observing how the dog
accepts a person such as a
groomer touching his/her feet and ears.
4.
Walking beside you without straining on the leash.
5. Walking quietly
through
a crowd of people.
6.
Sit on Command and Down (No physical force) and Staying in Place while
the owner goes 20 feet away
and comes right back.
7.
Holding position while the owner goes out 10 feet then calls the dog to
come.
8.
While two persons and dogs approach each other and shake hands, the
dogs will be tested on his/her
reaction to another dog.
9.
Reactions to distractions may include a jogger or bicyclist going past
or unusual noises, and the dog
should exhibit no panic nor aggression.
10.
Supervised separation is tested by the handler going out of sight for
3 minutes while the dog is held by
an evaluator.
If you
and your dog pass all ten parts of the test, you will earn a certificate.
If "needs more training" is checked on your score sheet, today wasn't your
day. Don't despair! It's fun to work with your dog regularly and you'll
probably find a passing score the next time you take the
test.
Owners
should make sure their dogs' shots and licensing are current, and tags
should be kept on the dog. Avoid using corrections on the dog
during the test. Dogs should potty at home before arriving at
the test site to help keep
the test ring clean and avoid distraction.
Trainers can prepare you
and your dog for the test so that you can exhibit the good manners
required. An added bonus is that
your vet will appreciate your well-behaved dog.
Get involved!
Photo
above:
Cathy
Wentz with her dog Victoria vom Haus Drage got involved in the CGCT
and they both did so much better than they expected. They were
so nervous, and all for naught as they walked away with new-found
confidence and a passing test form. The form can be mailed to AKC to
receive a beautiful frameable certificate and an awakened desire for
more awards!
