Canine Good Citizen training · Minneapolis & Eden Prairie
Canine Good
Citizen.
Everyday skills.
A milestone together.
What does the CGC test actually ask of your dog? Here’s a clear, kind guide to the skills, the preparation, and the bigger picture beyond test day.
Start with the basics ↓
What is Canine Good Citizen?
Canine Good Citizen, or CGC, is an American Kennel Club program built around ten everyday manners skills and responsible dog ownership. It gives you a clear practice goal and a way to recognize the work you and your dog have done together.
The milestone is useful. So is everything you learn along the way: how your dog feels around people, what helps them stay connected, and where they still need support.
Source: AKC Canine Good Citizen overview.
What to expect
The ten skills, in everyday language.
The official evaluation checks these behaviors. This overview helps you understand the picture; read the AKC descriptions for the complete test instructions.
Greeting a new person
Stay comfortable beside you while someone approaches and talks with you.
Being petted
Accept a friendly person’s touch without jumping or pulling away.
Routine care
Allow a brief brushing and a gentle check of ears and front feet.
Walking together
Follow changes of direction on a loose leash.
Passing people
Move politely through a small group.
Position and patience
Respond to sit and down, then stay while you move away.
Returning to you
Come when called from a short distance.
Passing another dog
Remain with you as another dog-and-handler team approaches and passes.
Everyday surprises
Recover from ordinary distractions without panic or aggression.
A brief separation
Stay with a trusted person while you are out of sight for three minutes.
Source: AKC’s complete ten test items.
Prepare for the life behind the test.
Begin where your dog can learn.
Start with familiar people and quiet places. When a skill is comfortable, change one part of the situation rather than making everything harder at once.
Reward the behavior you want.
At GAD, rewards help build clear communication. Practice in short, enjoyable sessions and learn how to support your dog when something feels difficult.
Pay attention to comfort.
A dog who can sit may still feel worried. Watch their whole body, offer space, and return to easier practice when they need it.
Leash walks, settling nearby, gentle handling, and checking in with you can all become small practice opportunities. The goal is a dog who can cope comfortably, not a dog who is pushed through a checklist.
When you are ready to test.
CGC testing is conducted by an AKC-approved evaluator. GAD offers CGC preparation and testing; Jeannie can help with current availability, fees, and whether your dog is ready for that step. Ask the evaluator what to bring and review the current rules before your appointment.
Dogs can earn a CGC certificate, or an official AKC title with the appropriate registration number. Mixed-breed dogs are welcome. CGC recognizes manners; it does not grant service-dog access or register a therapy-dog team.
Common CGC questions.
Is there a minimum age or breed requirement?
The CGC program welcomes purebred and mixed-breed dogs and has no general minimum age. Individual event rules can apply. Read AKC’s participation guidance and choose a time when your dog is comfortable with the skills.
Does a CGC pass make my dog a therapy dog?
It can be a useful foundation, but therapy-dog organizations have their own team evaluations and requirements. Learn more in our therapy-dog guide.
Does my dog have to love every dog they see?
The CGC evaluation looks for polite behavior around another dog. Everyday practice is about staying comfortable and connected to you, rather than greeting every dog you pass.
What if we are still working on barking or worry?
Work on the underlying concern before increasing test-like pressure. Individual coaching may be a more useful starting point than a busy group setting.
Learning together in Minneapolis & Eden Prairie.
If you would like help with the everyday skills in this guide, your starting point depends on your dog’s age, comfort, and experience. Our Certified Dog Life Coaches each bring more than 20 years of experience.
- Puppy classes introduce young puppies to learning and social experiences.
- Life Skills classes build communication and everyday manners.
- In-home puppy training offers individual help with puppy routines; private behavior support helps when fear, reactivity, or other concerns need attention.
Classes meet at 14500 Martin Dr, Suite 1500, Eden Prairie. Private training serves Minneapolis and nearby western and southwestern suburbs, including Shakopee and the Lake Minnetonka communities. See in-home service areas.
Questions about CGC or where your dog might begin? Jeannie can help you find the right starting point.
Keep learning.
Sources & further reading
Program rules and requirements can change. Follow the linked organization’s current guidance when planning an evaluation, visit, accommodation request, or trip.