The Canine Good Citizen Test & Therapy Dogs Certification

Canine Good Citizen
(also called CGC)

The Canine Good Citizen is a program developed by the American Kennel Club in 1989, the Canine Good Citizen Program stresses responsible ownership and the importance of a well-mannered dog. In 1999, the AKC modified it's program to include a database of CGC certified dogs and a frame-able certificate of accomplishment for the owners. It's overwhelming success as an evaluation program of good manners has led to it's adoption by other countries in recent years. 

Owners are permitted to use praise and encouragement during testing, but toys and treats are not allowed. Also prohibited are special training collars, such as electronic collars and devices, prong collars and head halters. Standard buckle collars, and slip collars are permitted, and the dog's personal brush is recommended to have on hand.

Grounds for Dismissal and Failure of the Test:
Aggressive behavior, such as growling or snapping is prohibited and the dog that demonstrates these behaviors will fail. Marking territory or otherwise eliminating is prohibited. Excessive anxiety, barking, whining or other displays of nervousness will also fail the dog.

Click to see a list of the ten tests that dogs must pass to earn their Canine Good Citizen Certificate.

Watch a CGC class practice each part of the test. 
chicagocanissapiens

Therapy Dogs

What Is A Therapy Dog?

Southern CA organizations

Training and getting a Fox Terrier certified as a Therapy Dog can be a wonderful, rewarding experience. They can visit nursing homes or even work in schools as Reading Dogs. Passing their Canine Good Citizen test is the first step and then they begin working on their Therapy certification.

  
Bing and Phoenix earn their "Love On A Leash" Therapy Dog certification

 
Having the dogs visit brings smiles at the nursing home!

Read about one Illinois couple who decided to take on this adventure with two retired Champion Wire Fox Terriers.

TARPLOAL.pdf
Thank you to Maggie Schmude for sharing this article.