Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program Overview

The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is designed to evaluate a dog’s basic manners and reliability in everyday situations. It focuses on practical, real-world skills like accepting a friendly stranger, walking politely on a leash, sitting and staying on cue, coming when called, and remaining calm around distractions such as other dogs or mild noise. Rather than testing flashy tricks, the CGC is all about making sure a dog is safe, under control, and comfortable being a polite member of the community.

This test is important because these are the exact skills that make life with a dog easier and more enjoyable. A dog that can walk nicely through a store, greet people without jumping, and stay calm in public spaces is not only less stressful to live with, but also safer for everyone around them. CGC training builds a strong foundation of communication and trust between dog and handler, which carries over into everyday life at home and out in the world.

Earning the CGC title shows that your dog has met a nationally recognized standard for good behavior. For many owners, it’s a point of pride and a tangible milestone in their training journey. In some cases, it can also help with housing or insurance requirements, open doors to therapy dog work, or serve as a stepping stone to more advanced training and sports.

Most importantly, having a CGC-titled dog means you have a companion who’s easier to take places, more welcome in public, and more reliable in real-world situations. It’s not just a certificate—it’s proof of a well-trained, well-mannered dog and a strong working relationship between you and your canine partner.

The training for the CGC test, and the trainer testing the dog must be two different people. Taking part in the class and paying for a test to be done does not guarantee that you will pass your test.

 ☐ Properly socialized with other dogs
☐ Properly socialized with various people
☐ Properly socialized with new environments
☐ No bite history
☐ No sedative medications needed for social interactions
☐ Recovers quickly from mild stress or mistakes
☐ Shows curiosity rather than fear toward new objects
☐ Fully House Broken 

What's included:

Eight lessons and the test in a real world environment.

Trainer recommended equipment which may include: Special collars, leashes, and the equipment your specific dog needs for success!

Printed Homework materials.

Skills learned:

Accepting a friendly stranger 

Sitting politely for petting 

Appearance and grooming 

Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead) 

Walking through a crowd 

Sit and down on cue and stay in place 

Coming when called 

Reaction to another dog

Reaction to distraction 

Supervised separation