Canine Good Citizen

What is a Canine Good Citizen?

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 dog and handler. 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. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events.

How can my dog and I prepare to become a Canine Good Citizen through Misty Pines Dog Park Training Facility?

We provide several ways for you and your dog to learn, work towards and pass the Canine Good Citizen Test. Feel free to call or email us for any additional information. We are here to help you and your dog to achieve your goals.

• Option 1: Attend an Orientation followed by group training classes – This is the most recommended option to prepare the dog and handler for the test. Our class syllabus prepares dogs and handlers to achieve their Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification.


• Option 2: Attend a Private Dog Training Lesson, continued by private training lessons or group training classes - concentrates on training specific behaviors to help you and your dog.


• Option 3: Dog Boot Camp – concentrates on training specific behaviors with your dog.


• Option 4: Daycare Training - concentrates on training specific behaviors with your dog.

Requirements for the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test

Canine Good Citizen Overview

All dogs, including both purebred and mixed breed dogs are welcome to participate in the AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program. Dogs must be old enough to have received necessary immunizations such as rabies, distemper (DHLPP) and bordetella vaccines. Owners will sign the Responsible Dog Owners Pledge attesting to having the dog under the routine care of a veterinarian who will work with the owner to determine an appropriate plan and schedule for vaccines and other health care procedures.

There is no age limit or minimum for the CGC test. A dog is never too old to be a good citizen. Puppies that have received all immunizations and boosters may be tested, however, because we know that behavior and temperament can change over time, when puppies pass the CGC test, owners should have them re-tested as adults.

The AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program started in 1989. CGC is a certification program that 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.

AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program is one of the most rapidly growing programs in the American Kennel Club. There are many exciting applications of this wonderful, entry level that go beyond the testing and certifying of dogs.

Misty Pines offers the CGC test several times per year. A couple of weeks before we hold a test we offer CGC Prep Classes. By attending Misty Pines CGC Prep Classes you and your dog will go through each exercise that is on the test. You will know exactly what you will need to practice in order to pass the test.

Misty Pines offers the TDI and CGC test and prep classes several times per year. Click here for upcoming prep class and test dates.