Lucid Dog Training is proud to announce that we have recently been certified as Canine Good Citizen Evaluators by the American Kennel Club.
The AKC Website reads that, “The CGC Program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.
Many dog owners choose Canine Good Citizen training as the first step in training their dogs. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events. As you work with your dog to teach the CGC skills, you’ll discover the many benefits and joys of training your dog. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with-they respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life. We sincerely hope that CGC will be only a beginning for you and your dog and that after passing the CGC test, you’ll continue training in obedience, agility, tracking, or performance events.”
The AKC Website also goes into greater detail about the test itself, which includes 10 specific tasks. Those tasks include:
- Accepting a Friendly Stranger
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler. - Sitting Politely for Petting
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it is out with its handler. - Appearance and Grooming
The dog will permit someone to check it’s ears and front feet, as a groomer or veterinarian would do. - Out for a Walk (walking on a loose lead)
Following the evaluator’s instructions, the dog will walk on a loose lead (with the handler/owner). - Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). - Sit and Down on Command and Staying in Place
The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. - Coming When Called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler (from 10 feet on a leash). - Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries. - Reaction to Distraction
The evaluator will select and present two distractions such as dropping a chair, etc. - Supervised Separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, “Would you like me to watch your dog?” and then take hold of the dog’s leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts (e.g, “there, there, it’s alright”).
Within the next few months, Lucid will be rolling out specific programs geared toward having your dog earn his or her AKC CGC Title!