Canine Good Citizen Test
HSHV Education Center

Want some recognition for your well behaved dog? 

Take the Canine Good Citizen Test!


What is the Canine Good Citizen test and why does my dog need one?
The American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen program rewards well behaved dogs and responsible owners with the chance to gain nationally recognized certification. Many doggie daycare and pet hotel businesses require dogs to pass a Canine Good Citizen's test in order to stay at their location. 

Who is eligible?
All dogs, including both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program. Dogs must be old enough to have received necessary immunizations such as rabies vaccines. Owners will sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge attesting to having the dog under the routine care of a veterinarian who will work with the owner to determine an appropriate plan and schedule for vaccines and other health care procedures.

There is no age limit for the CGC test. A dog is never too old to be a good citizen. Puppies who have completed all immunizations and boosters may be tested, however, because we know that behavior and temperament can change over time, when puppies pass the CGC test, owners should have them re-tested as adults.

What do I need to bring/not bring?
Bring your dog on a flat buckle collar, limited slip collar, or harness. The dog must be on a 4-6 foot lead. No flexi’s or long lines. As per AKC rules and HSHV policy, no corrective tools like choke/pinch collars or shock (e-stim) collars). The AKC also does not permit the use of head halters during the test, as they are considered a training aid even though they are not a corrective tool. It will also be nice to bring a mat, some treats, and water for your dog while you wait for your turn. (Note: No treats will be allowed during actual testing.)

What's the test like?
Before the test begins, you will sign a Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge. You will then be asked to complete a series of 10 tasks including: Accepting a friendly stranger, sitting politely for petting, accepting handling and grooming, walking on a loose lead, walking through a crowd, sitting and lying down on cue and staying in place, coming when called, reaction to another dog, reaction to distraction, and supervised separation.

What do I get if my dog pass the test?
If your dog passes all 10 tasks you can apply for a CGC certificate and dog tag. If you have an AKC number for your dog (see AKC website for details), you can also to have the CGC title added to your dog’s records.

What if my dog does not pass the test?
A test just tells you where you are at one point in time and lets you know what there is to work on. HSHV offers a variety of classes that will be able to help you address the things you still need to work on.

What are the benefits of taking the test?

  • Sets your dog up for success: By making sure your dog can pass the test, you will be able to more confidently take more advanced classes or pursue further certification for other activities such as therapy dog work.
  • Help with renting: Some landlords will be impressed that your dog has been certified as being polite and friendly, which may open rental opportunities to you or help you in situations where there is concern over the breed of your dog.
  • Helping out your local Humane Society: A portion of each registration goes directly to the HSHV in order to help carry out its mission. 
  • Insurance discounts:  Some insurance companies provide discounts on home-owner insurance if they know that your dog has the CGC certification.

How much does it cost?
The cost is $20 per dog, with a portion going directly to HSHV.

How long will it take?
The test itself takes about 10 minutes, but the amount of time you are waiting will vary based on number of dogs being tested. If we have a large turnout, we will assign a window of time for you and your dog.

 

More Information About Becoming a Canine Good Citizen:

CGC Program Overview

Participant Guide

Responsible Dog Owner’s Pledge

 



Date:
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

We're sorry, the deadline for registering for this event has passed.

 


Humane Society of Huron Valley

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