Could your dog pass the Canine Good Citizen test? A veterinarian explains the 10 CGC skills, why they matter, and how to train if your dog is not there yet.
A useful framework for raising a safe, confident, and well-mannered dog
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program was launched by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1989 to promote responsible dog ownership and recognize dogs with good manners, at home and in the community. Despite its connection to the AKC, any breed or mixed-breed dog can participate. The program has grown significantly over the years, and in 2019 the AKC announced that one million dogs had passed the test.
The test consists of 10 parts that demonstrate important canine manners, ranging from behaving politely around other dogs to walking through a crowd. The program also emphasizes responsible pet ownership, requiring participants to sign a pledge acknowledging the commitment involved in owning and caring for a dog. Several related AKC programs are also available, including AKC Community Canine, which evaluates skills in community settings rather than a simulated environment, Urban CGC, designed around challenges city dogs encounter, and S.T.A.R. Puppy, which helps puppies and their pet parents build a strong foundation from the very beginning. CGC training can also provide a foundation for dogs that may later pursue therapy work or other types of advanced training.
Regardless of your ultimate goal, the Canine Good Citizen program focuses on practical, everyday skills that are beneficial for all dogs. This training can improve communication between dogs and their pet parents, make veterinary care and grooming safer and easier, and help dogs navigate everyday situations with confidence. It can also highlight areas where a dog may need additional training or support. As a veterinarian, I have always prioritized these skills with my own dogs and highly recommend that other pet parents do the same.
The 10 parts of the Canine Good Citizen test are meant to test a dog’s response to common, real-life situations.
A friendly stranger approaches and briefly interacts with the handler while the dog remains calm and under control. This is an extremely common situation in everyday life, whether you are stopping to chat with a neighbor on your morning walk, checking in at the vet clinic, or running errands. The dog doesn't need to be outgoing or eager to greet everyone; the goal is simply that they remain calm.
The dog is petted by a friendly stranger without jumping, becoming overly excited, or showing fear or aggression. In order to pass the test, a dog must be accepting of this interaction; however, responsible dog ownership also means recognizing that not every dog enjoys being touched by unfamiliar people. Owners should learn their dog's body language and advocate for them when they appear uncomfortable.
The evaluator brushes the dog, examines the ears, and handles the front feet. Comfort with routine handling can make grooming, nail trims, veterinary exams, and other care safer and less stressful.
The dog walks with the handler through turns and stops without pulling. They do not need to heel perfectly, but should remain attentive to their owner. Loose-leash walking is a basic skill that makes everyday outings safer and more enjoyable, and allows owners to maintain better control around traffic, other animals, and unexpected distractions.
The dog moves calmly around several people. They can show interest in the people around them, but should not jump on them, pull toward them, or become fearful or reactive. This skill is extremely useful anywhere dogs may encounter pedestrian traffic, from neighborhood sidewalks and parks to pet-friendly stores, restaurants, or outdoor events.
Dogs must demonstrate that they can sit and lie down when cued and remain in place while their handler steps away and returns. These basic obedience commands have many practical applications, for example, asking a dog to wait while a door opens, stay out of the way while something is cleaned up, or settle while guests enter the house.
The handler moves away from the dog and calls them from a distance. A reliable recall is one of the most valuable safety skills a dog can learn. Even dogs normally kept on leash can slip through a door, escape from a yard, or encounter another unexpected situation where returning promptly to their owner could prevent an accident.
The dog and handler approach another person with a dog, briefly stop while the two people exchange greetings, and then continue walking. The dogs should show no more than casual interest in each other and should not pull over to greet the other dog or react in a fearful or aggressive manner. Good canine social skills do not require a dog to interact with every dog they see; in fact, it is usually safer to simply walk calmly past.
The evaluator introduces two common distractions, such as dropping a loud object or a person jogging past. It is ok for a dog to notice the distraction or even startle slightly, but they should recover without panicking, fleeing, becoming aggressive, or continuing to bark. Expecting a dog never to react to anything is unrealistic; a more useful goal is helping them recover from surprises and look to their handler for guidance.
Finally, the handler leaves the dog and goes out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to remain perfectly still and can show mild nervousness, but should not become distressed. Being able to tolerate a short separation is useful in everyday life, but owners should not view difficulty with this exercise as disobedience. Dogs with significant separation-related distress or anxiety may need a more individualized behavior plan.
If your dog would not pass the Canine Good Citizen test, it does not mean that they are a bad dog, nor does it mean that you are not a responsible pet parent. The skills included in the test may seem basic, but they can be difficult for many dogs. A dog’s age, temperament, health, early experiences, and prior training can all affect their ability to perform these skills. Some dogs may also have medical or behavioral issues, such as pain, anxiety, or reactivity, that can make this especially challenging.
While passing the Canine Good Citizen test can be a fun and rewarding experience, it is not a requirement for all pet parents. However, I do believe that all pet parents should be aware of these skills and work toward them, whether at home, by taking a dedicated CGC class, or working one-on-one with a qualified trainer. Focus on the skills your dog finds most difficult, such as walking politely on leash, staying calm around unfamiliar people or other dogs, tolerating handling, responding to basic cues around distractions, or being briefly separated from you.
Practice in low-distraction environments first, then gradually make things more challenging as your dog becomes successful. Positive reinforcement can help build both skills and confidence. Treats and training tools, such as a clicker or head halter, may be helpful during training, even though they are not permitted during the CGC test. If your dog is struggling or dealing with more complex behavioral issues, consult your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist.
Training your dog to be a safe, confident, and well-mannered member of society is an important part of responsible dog ownership, but not the only part. Other aspects include:
A dog certainly doesn’t need to pass the CGC test to be a wonderful companion. However, working toward these skills can help make everyday life safer and less stressful for both dogs and the people who care for them.
