AKC Canine Good Citizen Test

Your dog must pass all 10 of these tests in order to be designated as an AKC Canine Good Citizen.  The tests are:

Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation.

Test 2: Sitting politely for petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. 

Test 3: Appearance and grooming
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so. It also demonstrates the owner's care, concern and sense of responsibility. 

Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. 

Test 5: Walking through a crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. 

Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying in place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). 

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

Test 8: Reaction to another dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. 

Test 9: Reaction to distraction
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. 

Test 10: Supervised separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. 

Click Here to go back to the Canine Good Citizen overview.