I think everyone gets nervous when they hear the word “test”, but the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen test is really not so hard once you and your dog have Basic Obedience skills.
Basic CGC Skills
These basic skills include sit, down, heel, here/come, and stay. The dog will also need to be friendly to strangers and other dogs, and will need to be familiar with grooming, such as allowing his/her ears to be checked, allow brushing, and allow the friendly stranger to handle both front feet.
Practice Makes Perfect
The most important thing for both you and your dog is practice. If you have a puppy, start checking your puppy over now, getting him/her familiar with being handled. Especially important are ear and feet handling, and being brushed. You should brush your dog even if you own a smooth coated breed such as a German Shorthair or Chihuahua. For short haired breeds, use a soft brush like boar bristle. This will promote a healthy skin and coat.
Brownie Points with the Veterinarians
Checking the teeth, while not included in the CGC test, is something you may want to consider practicing for later on, in case you ever need to check your dogs’ teeth or mouth for injury or bee sting, or to retrieve something your dog has stolen. Your vet will also really appreciate this since it will make his/her job much easier!
Final Tips
As for the handler, the biggest thing you will need to pass the test is to remain calm! Your dog can feel your anxiety, and this will lead to additional stress for the both of you.
Enrolling your dog in Basic Obedience classes will provide you and your dog with a bonding experience as well as teaching both of you the basic skills necessary to pass the CGC test!
