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Nothing can enhance the neighbor’s opinion of your pooch quite like a well mannered pet. The American Kennel Club’s Good Canine Citizen® program, started in 1989, is designed to ensure your dog is, well, a Good Canine Citizen. Many state legislatures endorse it as a means of advocating responsible dog ownership; and, many countries have based similar programs on the American Kennel Club’s Good Canine Citizen® program.
AKC’s Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program
What is it?
Welcome to the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program. Started in 1989, 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.
If you’re interested in classes to help train your dog, the American Kennel Club’s Good Canine Citizen® program is a good resource. If your dog is still a puppy under 1-year old, you may be want to start with the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppysm Program. Has your dog graduated from the AKC Good Canine Citizen Program? How has it enhanced your lifestyle?
