Your Dog Can Pass the Test!

Many dog owners use the Canine Good Citizen test ("CGC") test as an end goal in training their dog.  The CGC test can also be a starting point as the training required for it lays out a great foundation for other performance events, which you and your dog can participate in such as agility, obedience and therapy work.  In working with your dog to train for this test you have probably begun to discover the joys and benefits of living with a well trained dog.  Training enhances your dog’s bond with you.

Educated dogs have good manners around people and other dogs and are a joy to live with.  Because they have good social skills, they are likely to be taken out and about more with their people, which makes their life more interesting.  We hope that the CGC test will be just the beginning for you and your dog and that after passing it, you will continue training your dog in obedience or for an activity which interests you.

Tips You May Find Helpful for Taking the CGC Test:

1. Remain calm!  You and your dog are most likely over prepared for this test from class and home practice.  If you become nervous it is very likely your dog will sense this and become anxious himself.

2. Attention please!  Keep your dog focused on you before and during the test.  Don’t allow him to wander around, play with the other dogs or become overly excited before taking the test.  Do some simple “warm up” exercises such as some tricks, heeling or a couple quick sits and downs a few minutes before it is your turn.  Remember you can talk to your dog throughout the test!

3. This is  not serious stuff.  Make the test fun for you and your dog.  Treat it as though it’s any night at class.  If you don’t understand something, ask the tester to explain it better.  And of course smile!  It will make both you and your dog feel better!

4. Try and try again.  So your dog made a mistake and didn’t pass the test, now what?  The CGC test is not a one time deal!  Do some extra training for the exercise that your dog didn’t pass and try again next time.

Quiz: Is My Dog Ready For the CGC Test?

Answer True or False to these statements to find out!

1. My dog is friendly but polite with strangers. T    F
2. My dog accepts grooming and handling from myself and others. T    F
3. My dog will walk on leash without pulling, stopping when I do, even in crowds and with distractions. T     F
4. My dog will Sit, Down and Stay when I ask him to. T    F
5. My dog will Come when called, even with distractions. T    F
6. My dog is well-mannered in the presence of other dogs. T    F
7. My dog can be left with a stranger without getting upset. T    F
8. My dog is comfortable around visual and auditory distractions T    F

If you answered True to all the statements you and your dog are ready!