Overview
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Class prepares you and your dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluation, a highly respected certification that recognizes polite behavior at home and in public. Over the course of 8 weeks, we focus on real-world obedience skills that ensure your dog behaves calmly around distractions, greets strangers politely, and remains well-mannered when the unexpected happens.
What You’ll Learn
Upcoming Classes
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Many landlords, insurance companies, and community organizations view CGC certification as proof of a well-mannered, responsible dog. CGC is also a common stepping stone for therapy dog certification, advanced obedience competitions, and other canine sports. It shows you and your dog have put in the work to be model citizens—both at home and out in public
On the last day of class, we’ll conduct the official CGC evaluation, which assesses 10 specific skills (e.g., polite greetings, grooming tolerance, supervised separation). Our instructor will walk you through each step, and you’ll demonstrate that your dog can follow commands reliably under mild distractions. If you pass, you’ll receive paperwork to submit to the AKC for formal certification.
Yes. We recommend that your dog has completed our Beginner Obedience (or an equivalent course) so they’re familiar with basic commands and leash manners. The CGC test involves skills like sitting politely for petting, walking on a loosYes. We recommend that your dog has completed our Beginner Obedience (or an equivalent course) so they’re familiar with basic commands and leash manners. The CGC test involves skills like sitting politely for petting, walking on a loose leash, and maintaining composure around distractions—behaviors that build on a solid training foundation.e leash, and maintaining composure around distractions—behaviors that build on a solid training foundation.
