Family Dog Training believes that all dogs can be good dogs, and all owners can be great owners: all it takes is a little bit of training, lots of love, and of course, plenty of praise along the way.
That why we support the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen™ (CGC) program: a two-part course designed to help you and your dog be the best you can be–together. Since 1989, over 1 million dogs and their owners have participated in CGC, mastering ten basic skills that instill confidence and good manners in and out of your home.
Family Dog Training offers both CGC instruction and evaluations.
What Is A Canine Good Citizen
What many don’t realize is that it is actually an evaluation for both a dog and his or her owner. Owners must be able to handle their dog well, while the dog must behave in an appropriate manner as he or she is tested in a variety of circumstances and environments.
The Canine Good Citizen test is essentially a behavioral evaluation. Those who pass the Canine Good Citizen Test earn a certificate showing they passed. Some dogs may even continue training to become therapy dogs.
What Are The Benefits
We know it’s up to dog owners promote responsible pet ownership, so it important to learn how to better understand and communicate with our pets. Through training and practice, you and your dog will deepen your bonds and become a more connected pair. This bond allows you to become the best companions for each other, and great neighbors to those around you. It’s a win, win, win!
Beyond the bonding, there are practical benefits to CGC training, too. Not only will you and your dog understand the basics of dog training, and master skills like sit, down and stay, but you’ll know your dog will be able to handle herself with grace in a crowd and be a welcomed client at the vet or groomer.
The CGC title is also a prerequisite for many therapy dog certifications, as well as a great introduction to more advanced dog sports and activities. Some homeowners’ insurance programs even offer discounts for CGC dogs, and an increasing number of apartments and condos see CGC awards as a major bonus for becoming a resident.
Who Can Participate?
There are no age minimums or limits for participating in the Canine Good Citizen program, because yes, you actually can teach an old dog new tricks! And, both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome.
With that being said, we also know that training a puppy is different than training an adult dog, so we have special training, AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, that teaches the starting points of CGC skills for young dogs..
Is It Difficult?
Testing is friendly, and fun. There are 10 different items that you probably use everyday. You can find them here Canine Good Citizen Test Items