AKC Canine Good Citizen

What is the Canine Good Citizen test?

Passing the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is an accepted certification that your dog is a well-behaved companion at home, as well as a well-mannered member in the community.

In addition to being a certification, the AKC CGC is an American Kennel Club (AKC) title.  You don't need to have a pure breed dog to recieve the certification or the AKC title. 
 
AKC CGC testing is regular part of HDOC's training schedule. The test is optional and typically takes place the same Saturday as the Novice Obedience orientation.

The AKC Community Canine test, an advanced version of CGC (known as CGCA), is occassionally also offered by HDOC. Taking this requires that the CGC title has been earned. 

Why take the CGC test?

Some landlords or insurance companies may require this certification. It may be a title that you and your dog want as a stepping stone before you start competing or training as a therapy dog. You may just want to a title to show your neighbors that you have the best dog in the neighborhood. Whatever the reason, whether a current HDOC student or not (though we hope you are), our testing is open to all: current students, passed students and those who have never trained or have trained elsewhere.

What does the CGC test consist of?

Dogs must pass ten test components, including accepting a friendly stranger, grooming, coming when called and being separated from the owner without complaining.
 
If you are not familiar with the CGC title, check out the AKC website for more details on the entire test so that you can polish your skills (if you are not already enrolled in one of our classes).

What does the CGC test cost?

The cost for the test is $15. 

​The rosette (pictured) is an additional $10.

When will the next CGC test happen?

Check our calendar to see when we are next offering the test.