Started in 1989, AKC CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The AKC Canine Good Citizen Program®, sponsored by K9 Advantix®, is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program Sponsored by K9 Advantix®

There are 10 tests in the AKC CGC program that your dog must pass to earn his or her CGC certification. Over the next few months, we'll be providing tips on mastering the ten steps. The following is the seventh test in the 10-step series and some training tips:

Test 7: Coming when called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler.

Training for Test 7:
Put on your dog’s leash to begin teaching your dog to come.  Call your dog’s name enthusiastically, giving a light tug on the leash if the dog does not respond.  When your dog does come when called, be sure to give plenty of praise!  

Look out for information on AKC CGC Test 8 in an upcoming issue of Your AKC! In the meantime, you can find more on the program here.

Show off your dog's new CGC award with an AKC CGC Visa Rewards Card. Click here to apply now!

See tips for:

• Test One -- Accepting a friendly stranger
• Test Two -- Sitting politely for petting
• Test Three -- Appearance and grooming
• Test Four -- Out for a walk (walking on a loose leash)
• Test Five -- Walking through a crowd
• Test Six -- Sit and down on command and staying in place