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Your canine is so well-trained. and you want to show the world. One way is to have him pass the American Kennel Club’s Canine good citizen (CGC) Test.
The exam requires your pup to pass a series of 10 tests. and you need to meet certain requirements too.
It tests your dog’s socialization and obedience skills as well as his temperament.
Passing the test indicates that your canine companion can be considered to be a respected member of his community.
It also shows that your canine can behave well at home and in public places even in the presence of strangers and other dogs.
It’s considered to be the gold standard of behavior and training if your canine passes.
Even if you’re just starting to train your dog, this short article will help you learn how your canine can achieve the title that numerous aspire to: Canine good Citizen.
But note that the CGC title does not imply that your canine is a therapy dog, emotional support dog, or service dog. though the requirements may help you achieve those titles.
Benefits of the Canine good citizen Title
In addition to demonstrating how well-behaved your canine is in everyday life situations, there are numerous other benefits to taking the test.
The training for the exam will also even more the bond you have with your dog.
Some establishments require that a canine pass the test in purchase to be able to rent an house or condo.
Restaurants, hotels, and getaway destinations often welcome Canine good Citizens.
Groomers, veterinarians, and boarding facilities will be thrilled to have your business.
Some insurance companies will even cover “banned breeds” who pass the test.
The CGC test also lays the foundation for other American Kennel Club sports and activities like obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events.
Additionally, it can give your canine skills that will help him meet the requirements for becoming a therapy dog.
And your dog’s life will be improved by being able to go much more places.
Responsible canine Owner’s Pledge
As a crucial part of your team with your dog, you first need to sign a responsible canine owner’s pledge before taking the test.
It shows a commitment to being the best canine owner you can be.
It also demonstrates that you’ll offer for your dog’s health and safety and that you won’t infringe on the rights of others.
And that you’ll do all you can to guarantee that your pup is a great companion, community member, and friend.
What Dogs Qualify
Any breed or mix can become a Canine good Citizen. and any canine over six months old qualifies.
What’s permitted during the Test
There are strict guidelines that should be followed when taking the test.
Equipment
Certain types of equipment are required while your canine takes the test. So make sure that you’re ready prior to the test.
Your canine can wear a regular buckle collar, slip collar, or Martingale collar or even a body harness that doesn’t restrict his movement.
But certain training devices aren’t permitted. A harness that restricts your pup’s movement or one that’s developed as an anti-pull harness isn’t permitted.
And special training collars such as prong collars, head halters, and electronic collars aren’t permitted.
A regular leash is allowed, but a flexi isn’t. during part of the test, a 20-foot longline is required.
The evaluator typically offers the longline. but it’s still essential for you to have one that you can use during training.
You also need to bring your dog’s brush or comb to be used as part of the test.
Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement ought to be the foundation of our training. So you are allowed to praise and encourage your canine during the test.
But no treats or toys are permitted while taking the test.
Of course, you can–and should–use them as part of your training. When your canine understands a command and is reliable in various settings, you’ll need to wean him down randomly from treats and toys as reinforcements so that he’ll pass the test.
But keep praising his accomplishments. It can be a powerful reinforcement to your dog.
Even in real life, it would be helpful for your canine to listen to your cues without using treats and toys because you might not always be carrying them when you need him to respond.
The 10 Tests
There are 10 particular tests that your pup should pass in purchase to be certified as a Canine good Citizen.
In each section, I’ll quote the American Kennel Club language concerning what’s requirenullnull