Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

What is Canine Good Citizen?

Canine Good Citizen (CGC) is a certification awarded by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to dogs who pass a test indicating they have good manners, both at home and in the community. Dogs with a CGC certificate have greater respect within the community. Landlords are more willing to accept a Canine Good Citizen than other dogs (some will offer discounted pet fees), and business owners are more willing to invite a Canine Good Citizen into their business. In addition, the CGC certificate is one of the first training goals for many working dogs, such as many Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs.

There are several types of CGC certificates that we offer; the Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Community Canine or Advanced Canine Good Citizen (CGCA), and Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU). We also offer AKC Trick Dog testing.

​Dogs of any breed, mixed breed or age are eligible to take any of CGC tests so long as they are fully up to date on rabies vaccines and have completed the puppy series of vaccines. In order to take the CGCA or CGCU, a dog must first have a CGC test on record. It is recommended that dogs re-test every 1-2 years, especially dogs that take the CGC test prior to one year of age. Click the buttons below to learn more about the CGC tests:

CGC Prep Program:

Everything you need to get your dog prepped and ready to take and pass any of the above CGC tests, tailored to your needs. I'll help you polish the needed obedience skills, such as Sit, Down, Stay, Come, and greeting a stranger (among other things). This program includes a Temperament Test and evaluation of the dog and 4 in-home personalized training sessions lasting 45-90 minutes each. Additional sessions are available as needed.

Click here to learn more about pricing. A travel fee may apply.

CGC Evaluation:

​If you feel your dog is already prepared to pass a CGC test but you would like to find out for sure before taking the test, I can evaluate your dog during a consultation session and let you know if he or she is ready. 

Click here to learn more about pricing for Consultations. A travel fee may apply.

CGC Testing

As an AKC CGC Evaluator, I can administer the test when your dog is ready. It is important to make sure your dog is ready to pass before taking the CGC, so you don't have to take the test more than once (see CGC Prep and Evaluation above). Each CGC test is $20. In addition, the American Kennel Club will charge $20 to process your test form and provide a final certificate. I'll meet you at a pre-designated location near me. Other locations can be chosen, but may require a travel fee. Testing usually takes 20-30 minutes depending on the dog.