I really want Bella to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. I'd like her to be a part of Pets on Wheels or another type of therapy dog program. A lot of these programs require CGC certified dogs. Bella gets a lot of socialization, but she still goes ballistic around other dogs. I can usually get her to calm down around adult people, but she really loses it over dogs and kids. I wonder if this will lessen as she matures. She is almost 8 months old and she has a butt-load of energy. Anyway, would your bully pass the CGC??
Test Items and Pledge - American Kennel Club
The CGC test includes:
Test Items and Pledge - American Kennel Club
The CGC test includes:
- Accepting a Friendly Stranger
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler. - Sitting Politely for Petting
The dog will allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it is out with its handler. - Appearance and Grooming
The dog will permit someone to check it’s ears and front feet, as a groomer or veterinarian would do. - Out for a Walk (walking on a loose lead)
Following the evaluator’s instructions, the dog will walk on a loose lead (with the handler/owner). - Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). - Sit and Down on Command and Staying in Place
The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. - Coming When Called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler (from 10 feet on a leash). - Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries. - Reaction to Distraction
The evaluator will select and present two distractions such as dropping a chair, etc. - Supervised Separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, "Would you like me to watch your dog?" and then take hold of the dog's leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts (e.g, "there, there, it's alright").