Your dog may not be able to speak, but still has a lot to say.
Table of Contents
A dog’s body language is rich with meaning and intent. They know when you’re happy or sad, feeling playful or angry, attentive or distracted. And they don’t want to miss out on any of the fun!
Dogs also crave interaction with their humans – it grounds them and makes them feel safe in an unpredictable world. Without these interactions, dogs can become anxious and destructive at home without enough mental stimulation from their owners. One way that pet parents are empowered to help keep their canine companions mentally stimulated is through becoming certified through the AKC Canine Good Citizen program (CGC).
The CGC program stresses the importance of basic obedience training and good manners in dogs, and offers an actual certification that proves your dog is a well-behaved canine member of society. All dogs are welcome to participate in the CGC program, regardless of breed.
10 Reasons To Certify Your Dog Through the AKC CGC Program
There are many benefits to getting your dog certified through the AKC CGC program. These include, but are not limited to:
1. The CGC program helps to promote responsible dog ownership.
2. The program enhances the relationship between dog owners and their pets.
3. The CGC certification proves that your dog is a well-behaved member of society.
4. The CGC program is open to all dogs, regardless of breed, size or age.
5. The CGC certification can help you when traveling with your dog.
6. The CGC certification may increase your dog’s chances of being adopted if they ever need to be rehomed.
7. The CGC program can help to encourage shy dogs to socialize more.
8. The CGC program helps to reduce your dog’s stress levels.
9. The CGC program may make training easier for you and your dog.
10. Your dog will love you for it!
How to get started with the AKC CGC program
If you’re interested in getting started with the AKC CGC program, the first step is to find an AKC-approved training club or organization in your area. There are likely to be many different clubs to choose from, so you’ll need to do a little bit of research to find the one that’s right for you and your dog.
Once you’ve found a training club, the next step is to enroll in a class. The CGC program is designed for dogs of all ages, so there’s no need to wait until your pup is a teenager! Most training clubs offer classes at various levels, so you can choose the one that’s best suited for your dog’s needs.
What happens at a CGC class
When you enroll your dog in a CGC class, you will be taught how to train your pet in basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. You will also learn how to handle your dog confidently in a variety of situations, from meeting new people to walking through a crowded park.
In order to become certified through the CGC program, your dog must pass a series of 10 tests designed to evaluate his or her manners and obedience.
The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification program FAQ
Q: What is the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification program?
A: The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification program is designed to promote responsible dog ownership and enhance the relationship between dog owners and their pets. The CGC program stresses the importance of basic obedience training and good manners in dogs, and offers a certification that proves your dog is a well-behaved member of society.
All dogs are welcome to participate in the CGC program, regardless of breed or age.
Q: Who can participate?
A: The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification is not limited to purebred dogs; mixed breeds are welcome as well. All dog owners, regardless of experience level, may participate and take the 10 step Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. The AKC website states that “any dog, purebred or mixed breed, can attain the CGC title.”
Q: Do I need to take a test in order to get my dog certified?
A: No; there is no requirement of any kind for you or your dog to take a test in order to get certified through the AKC CGC program. However, taking the AKC CGC certification test will increase your chances of being selected for future dog sports or activities, particularly those that stress responsible pet parenting and canine good citizenship.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The fee for training is for a local trainer who will conduct a class. There is no fee required for participation in the AKC CGC certification program except a $10 processing fee for an official CGC title for your dog.
Q: How long does the certification last?
A: There is no expiration date for your dog’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or status. It will remain valid as long as you and your dog meet all of the requirements for participation, which include having it on hand whenever you and your dog are out in public together.
Q: What is the AKC CGC test like?
A: The AKC CGC certification program has 10 steps, which include (but are not limited to) accepting a friendly stranger, demonstrating appropriate behavior around other dogs, sitting politely for petting, and remaining calm when approached by an unfamiliar person or animal.
Q: How do I become certified?
A: You and your dog can work together to complete all of the requirements of the AKC CGC certification program. To get started, visit the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) page here.
Q: Who should take the CGC test?
A: The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification program is designed for all dog owners and their pets.
The American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen (AKCCG) certification is proof that your dog is a well-behaved member of society. All dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC CGC program, regardless of breed or age. The AKC offers additional training for your dog, should he need it to prepare him for his CGC certification test.
Once you complete this training, you can contact the AKC’s Customer Service department to schedule a day and location for your dog’s CGC certification test. Don’t delay in scheduling your dog’s CGC test, because most spots fill up quickly!