Earn Your Dog’s AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification
Elevate your dog’s confidence and manners through our specialized CGC Evaluation Prep program. The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification is a respected standard established by the American Kennel Club that evaluates not only your dog’s behavior but also the quality of your partnership. This certification assesses whether your dog demonstrates the essential skills of obedience, manners, and sociability in a variety of real-world settings.
Our program is designed with a dual focus: equipping you with the techniques to effectively manage and communicate with your dog, and guiding your dog to consistently exhibit the behaviors that the CGC test demands. The evaluation covers key skills such as walking on a loose leash, sitting politely in public, and responding reliably to commands—proving that your dog can be a calm and well-behaved companion in any environment.
Passing the CGC test is more than earning a certificate; it’s a milestone that signifies a harmonious, respectful relationship between you and your dog. Many of our graduates even go on to further training, with some becoming therapy dogs, showcasing the lasting benefits of a strong foundation in canine behavior.
Embrace this opportunity to build confidence, foster mutual respect, and celebrate your dog’s achievements with a certification that reflects a lifetime of good behavior.
What Is the Canine
Good Citizen Test?
The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test is a comprehensive, ten-skill evaluation open to all dogs—both purebred and mixed breed. It’s designed to teach and assess the fundamentals of good manners and obedience, promote responsible ownership, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog, whether at home or in public settings.
Before taking the test, your dog must become comfortable and proficient in each of the ten tasks. Our experienced trainers will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you both feel confident and prepared. Here’s what you can expect for each test item:
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Your dog remains calm and relaxed as someone approaches to greet you, showing no signs of fear or aggression.
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Your dog allows a friendly stranger to pet them while sitting calmly without jumping or pulling away.
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Your dog accepts being gently handled for basic grooming tasks, including brushing and checking ears and feet.
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Your dog walks beside you on a loose leash, maintaining focus without pulling, lagging, or weaving.
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Your dog stays composed and attentive while walking with you through a group of people, showing confidence in public spaces.
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Your dog responds promptly to basic commands and can hold a stay position as directed.
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Your dog reliably comes to you when called from a short distance, demonstrating trust and engagement.
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Your dog remains calm and under control while encountering another dog at a safe distance—no barking, lunging, or excitement.
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Your dog can recover quickly and remain composed after exposure to everyday distractions like sudden noises or movement.
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Your dog handles brief separation from you without excessive anxiety, showing they’re confident and secure when left with a trusted person.
The Ten Skills
Fuel your pet’s potential Unlock New Opportunities for Your Canine Companion
Training is more than obedience—it’s a way to strengthen your bond, build confidence, and unlock your dog’s full potential. At Ridgeside K9 Charlottesville, we’re here to guide you through that journey with programs designed to support real-life results and lasting transformation.
Join the many proud pet owners who have taken this transformative step. Embrace a future where your dog’s impeccable manners not only enhance daily life but also set the stage for exciting possibilities.