The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. This program emphasizes responsible pet ownership and helps dogs become reliable members of their communities.
The CGC program consists of a 10-skill test that evaluates a dog's behavior in everyday situations. Dogs that pass the test receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club, and many therapy dog organizations require CGC certification as a prerequisite.
Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger - The dog allows a friendly stranger to approach and speak to the handler
Test 2: Sitting politely for petting - The dog allows a friendly stranger to pet him while out with his handler
Test 3: Appearance and grooming - The dog welcomes being groomed and examined and permits someone to check his ears and front feet
Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead) - The dog demonstrates that he is in control while walking
Test 5: Walking through a crowd - The dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic
Test 6: Sit and down on command and staying in place - The dog responds to the handler's commands to sit and down and will remain in the sit or down position while the handler walks away
Test 7: Coming when called - The dog will come when called by the handler
Test 8: Reaction to another dog - The dog can behave politely around other dogs
Test 9: Reaction to distraction - The dog is confident at all times and is not startled by common distracting situations
Test 10: Supervised separation - The dog will maintain training and good manners when left with a trusted person
Labradors are naturally social and eager to please, making them excellent candidates for CGC certification. The training process helps reinforce good manners and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. Benefits include:
• Improved behavior in public settings
• Better socialization skills
• Increased confidence for both dog and owner
• Foundation for advanced training
• Qualification for therapy dog work
• Some insurance companies offer discounts for CGC dogs
Most skills tested in CGC are basic manners that every dog should know:
• Basic obedience commands (sit, down, stay, come)
• Polite greeting behaviors
• Acceptance of handling and grooming
• Loose leash walking
• Calm behavior around distractions
• Socialization with people and other dogs
For dogs that excel in CGC, there are advanced levels:
CGC Advanced (CGCA): Tests more advanced skills in real-world scenarios
CGC Urban (CGCU): Tests skills specific to city environments
Our club members include certified CGC evaluators who can help you prepare your Labrador for the test. We regularly offer:
• CGC training classes
• Practice testing sessions
• Individual coaching and tips
• Group training opportunities
• Testing events throughout Florida
CGC tests are conducted by AKC approved evaluators in a variety of settings including dog shows, training facilities, and community events. The test is pass/fail, and dogs that pass receive an official AKC certificate.
Most Labradors can easily achieve CGC certification with basic training. Start with fundamental obedience skills and gradually work on each of the 10 test items. Practice in various environments to ensure your dog is comfortable in different situations.
Contact our club for information about upcoming CGC classes and testing opportunities. CGC certification is often the first step toward more advanced activities like therapy work or competitive obedience.
The CGC program helps create better canine citizens and promotes responsible dog ownership. For Labradors, whose friendly nature sometimes leads to overly enthusiastic greetings, CGC training teaches appropriate social behaviors that make them welcome everywhere they go.