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