Canine Good Citizens

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     Training your dog to pass the canine good citizen test is a true honor. This designation was devised by the American Kennel Club. Before enrolling in the course, the owner must sign the "responsible dog owner's pledge". Being a responsible dog owner is key to the concept. The owner agrees to take care of the total dog. This includes health, exercise, safety, quality of life and training. They also agree to clean up after their dogs in public areas and to not allow their dog to infringe on others.

The tests include:

1. The dog allows a friendly stranger to approach the dog and handler in everyday situations. The person administering the test will approach the handler and ignore the dog. The dog must not alter its position during the exercise.

2. The dog will sit politely while a stranger pets it.

3. The owner will demonstrate proper hygiene and grooming.

4. Walking on a loose lead.

5. Walking through a crowd.

6. Has been trained to sit, stay and down without force.

7. The dog will come when called from a distance of 10 feet.

8. The reaction to another dog is very important. This is demonstrated by two handlers approaching from a distance of about 20 feet. They stop, speak and shake hands and continue for about ten additional feet. Neither dog shows more than a casual interest in the visiting dog or handler.

9. How does your dog react to distraction? If a chair is dropped, a runner passes the dog or something else happens suddenly, the dog does not run away. He merely observes and remains in the control of the handler with minimal conversation from the owner.

10. The dog can be left with a trusted person. The person evaluating the dog asks if the handler would like him to watch his dog. The handler leaves for about three minutes. The dog does not have to remain in one position, but should not bark continually or become disruptive. The person holding the dog should not give excessive praise or comfort to the dog.

The handlers should use praise during the test either verbally or with petting. Toys, clickers or other items may not be used during the test. Although the use of treats and toys are not discouraged by the American Kennel Club, they are not appropriate during the test.

Any dog that shows even minimal aggression towards another dog or handler is not a good citizen and will fail the test. The only exception is if step ten is held outdoors.

By partaking of Canine Good Citizen classes your dog will be welcome in most situations at home or in the community. It is a program that is designed to reward a dog with good manners. It also stresses responsible pet ownership.

Upon completion of the course, the dog will receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. If you are considering enrolling your dog in a course, you must already have had the dog go through obedience training.