Taking the 10-skill CGC test is the final payoff for all your hard work! Once you feel like you and your dog have mastered all ten skills (or completed the appropriate class/training series), you’re ready to take the CGC Test with an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator.
You can take the CGC Test at all Petco’s nationwide and many local AKC Training Clubs.
Your dog can pass the CGC test and earn CGC as a certificate only, or you may choose to earn CGC as an official AKC title (includes certificate). With official AKC titles, the title is listed on the dog’s Title Record, and “CGC” may be listed after the dog’s name (e.g., “Princess, CGC”).
To earn CGC as an official title, dogs must have one of the 3 types of registration: 1) AKC number, 2) Purebred Alternative Listing number (PAL), or 3) AKC Canine Partners number (For mixed-breed dogs).
If you apply for an AKC Canine Partners number at the same time as your dog’s Canine Good Citizen award, a discount will be applied. Send this specialized CGC Form at the same time as your AKC Canine Partners Registration in the same envelope or email to receive the discount.
When it comes to test day, there are some things to keep in mind. The CGC test generally lasts less than 10 minutes and usually happens in a relatively controlled environment, like a sectioned off area of a pet store or show ring at your AKC trainer’s school. Find out more about the CGC Test in our Participant Guide.
***NEW*** AKC now offers a quick and easy way to submit your Canine Good Citizen Title Application! Try the new – Title Application Portal (TAP) System.
AKC CGC Evaluators are approved trainers that have the experience, skills, and patience to teach everything you need to earn your CGC certificate. Not only are they well versed in CGC training, but they also administer the CGC test when it’s time to take your exam.
You can locate a CGC Evaluator in your area here.
Please contact us if you need assistance locating an Evaluator.
Additionally, all Petco Trainers act as approved CGC Evaluators and Trainers. Learn more about taking CGC training classes at Petco here.
Getting started on your CGC training is simple! You can find group classes at local AKC Training Clubs and Petco locations or you can get individualize support through a Private Trainor or CGC Evaluator.
Both purebred and mixed-breeds are welcome to participate. Additionally, there are no age limits for participating in the Canine Good Citizen program.
Additionally, if a dog is in a shelter or foster situation, he can still learn the skills needed to pass the test through our CGC Ready Program.
Even though a dog may start CGC at any age, puppies are sometimes developmentally more suited for the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program.
All dogs, both purebred and mixed-breed, are eligible to earn an AKC Canine Good Citizen Title. To qualify for a title your dog must be registered or enrolled with the American Kennel Club.
For mixed-breed dogs look into enrolling your dog within the AKC Canine Partners Program.
For purebred dogs look into registering your dog with the American Kennel Club.
