AKC Canine Good Citizen Program

The AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate or CGC is not a title AKC will put on your dogs registration but it is something you can use in advertising and on pedigrees( not in show catalogs).

This is a fun test that all dogs, pet or show, puppies or veterans, can participate in and prove what "Good Citizens" Bostons can be.

You have 10 tests your dog must pass to get it's certificate. You are allowed to encourage and praise your dog during the tests. You can give more than one command but you are not to use force. Bostons being Bostons I figure our hardest thing is keeping our dogs from being overly friendly. Dogs are not allowed to jump on people or get too exuberant. You can give gentle guidance in some exercises.

Bring proof of rabies vaccination that would be the only requirement( if the club decides).

Price will be the same as the Fun Match entries.

Test #1: Accepting A Friendly Stranger. The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation.

Test #2: Sitting Politely For Petting. The dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler.

Test # 3: Appearance And Grooming. The dog will welcome being brushed and allow its front feet to be examined.

Test # 4: Out For A Walk. Dog must be under control on a loose leash but not neccessarily in a perfect heeling position.

Test # 5: Walking Through A Crowd. Dog can walk politely thru a crowd of people.

Test # 6: Sit And Down On Command/Staying In Place. Dog will respond to commands and stay while handler walks just 20 feet away and right back.

Test # 7: Coming When Called. Dog will come when called from 10 feet away.

Test # 8: Reaction To Another Dog. Dog behaves well around other dogs.

Test # 9: Reaction To Distractions. Dog is confident when faced with noise or visual distractions.

Test # 10: Supervised Separation. Dog can be left with trusted person and will remain calm and under control.

COME TO THE FUN MATCH AND GIVE THE" CANINE GOOD CITIZEN" TEST A TRY

Shirley Stiles