canine good citizen class homework

​Hi Friends!

We are so grateful that you have joined our class! Here is your homework - Some weeks we may stray off of the homework, but this is to be used as a general guideline.

The American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen
The Canine Good Citizen Test is a certification program that tests dogs in simulated everyday situations in a relaxed atmosphere.  It identifies and rewards dogs that have the training and demeanor to be reliable family members as well as good-standing community members.  All dogs passing the Canine Good Citizen Test can send their information in to receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

The purpose of the Canine Good Citizen Test is to ensure that our favorite companion, the dog, can be a respected member of the community because it is trained and conditioned to act mannerly in the home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs.  The program embraces both purebred and mixed-breed dogs.

Canine Good Citizen training is fun and useful.  Through it, you and your dog will establish a closer bond and your dog will have the added benefit of knowing how to please you.  This test of your dog's manners and training is not a competition and does not require that you and your dog perform with precision.

The American Kennel Club urges all dog owners to participate in this program, thereby assuring that our beloved dogs will always be welcomed and respected members of the community.

CGC Test Procedures
The purpose of the Canine Good Citizen Program is to ensure that our favorite companion, the dog, can be a respected member of the community. To receive the CGC certificate, dogs take the 10 item Canine Good Citizen Test. Items on the test include:

Test Item 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. The evaluator walks up to the dog and handler and greets the handler in a friendly manner, ignoring the dog.

The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the evaluator.

Test Item 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. With the dog sitting at the handler's side, to begin the exercise, the evaluator pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk to his or her dog throughout the exercise. The dog may stand in place as it is petted. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.

Test Item 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.

The evaluator inspects the dog to determine if it is clean and groomed. The dog must appear to be in healthy condition (i.e., proper weight, clean, healthy and alert). The handler should supply the comb or brush commonly used on the dog. The evaluator then softly combs or brushes the dog, and in a natural manner, lightly examines the ears and gently picks up each front foot.

It is not necessary for the dog to hold a specific position during the examination, and the handler may talk to the dog, praise it and give encouragement throughout.

Test Item 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. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handler's movements and changes of direction. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops.

The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions or commands. In either case, there should be a right turn, left turn, and an about turn with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The handler may talk to the dog along the way, praise the dog, or give commands in a normal tone of voice. The handler may sit the dog at the halts if desired.

Test Item 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. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers but should continue to walk with the handler, without evidence of over-exuberance, shyness or resentment. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the dog throughout the test. The dog should not jump on people in the crowd or strain on the leash.

Test Item 6: Sit and down on command - 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).

Prior to this test, the dog's leash is replaced with a line 20 feet long. The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to get the dog to sit and then down. The evaluator must determine if the dog has responded to the handler's commands. The handler may not force the dog into position but may touch the dog to offer gentle guidance.

When instructed by the evaluator, the handler tells the dog to stay and walks forward the length of the line, turns and returns to the dog at a natural pace. The dog must remain in the place in which it was left (it may change position) until the evaluator instructs the handler to release the dog. The dog may be released from the front or the side.

Test Item 7: Coming when called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and call the dog. The handler may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to "stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog.

Test Item 8: 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 20 to 30 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10 feet. The dogs should show no more than casual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other dog or its handler.

Test Item 9: Reaction to distraction
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The evaluator will select and present two distractions. Examples of distractions include dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly past the dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane.

The dog may express natural interest and curiosity and/or may appear slightly startled but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise it throughout the exercise.

Test Item 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. 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.

Equipment
All tests must be performed on leash. Dogs should wear well-fitting buckle or slip collars made of leather, fabric, or chain. Special training collars such as pinch collars, head halters, etc. are not permitted in the CGC test. We recognize that special training collars may be very useful tools for beginning dog trainers, however, we feel that dogs are ready to take the CGC test at the point at which they are transitioned to regular collars.

The evaluator supplies a 20-foot lead for the test. The owner/handler should bring written proof of rabies vaccines and the dog's brush or comb to the test.

Encouragement
Owners/handlers may use praise and encouragement throughout the test. The owner may pet the dog between exercises. Food and treats are not permitted during testing, nor is the use of toys, squeaky toys, etc. to get the dog to do something. We recognize that food and toys may provide valuable reinforcement or encouragement during the training process but these items should not be used during the test.

Failures - Dismissals
Any dog that eliminates during testing must be marked failed. The only exception to this rule is that elimination is allowable in test Item 10, but only when test Item 10 is held outdoors.

Any dog that growls, snaps, bites, attacks, or attempts to attack a person or another dog is not a good citizen and must be dismissed from the test. 


CANINE GOOD CITZEN -- WEEK ONE
Each week builds on previous training, so we want to resolve problems as soon as possible.  Please come to the following class a few minutes early if you feel you need additional help regarding any one of the lessons we have learned.

Things to bring to all following classes: 6-foot leash, Doggie brush or comb, Good soft yummy treats (cheese, hot dogs, chicken, etc. – cut up very small, about ¼ the size of a nickel). A favorite toy that may motivate your dog.  Positive Attitude!  Your dog can always learn something as long as you believe he can!

AttentionOur chances of having our dogs do what we ask is much greater if we already have their attention.  Show your dog you have a treat and bring it up to your face, near your eyes.  As soon your dog looks up at you, say “Yes!” and give him the treat.  Remember to give his verbal praise or marker word (Yes!) the split second he looks up at you.  When he starts to understand that looking at you will get him a treat and praise, start putting a command to it (Look, Watch Me, etc.)

Accepting a Friendly Stranger & Sitting Politely for PettingTell your dog to sit.  Instructor will approach your dog.  Instructor will only give your dog attention if he remains sitting.  You can remind your dog to remain sitting, and ask him to pay attention to you.

Out for a WalkShow your dog that you have a treat or toy.  Hold on to the leash loosely.  We don’t want to be pulling on our dog’s necks while they are heeling.  Walk forward.  Stop.  Ask your dog to sit.  Try to keep their attention while you are walking, by talking to them, giving them treats, etc.  Walk ½ the distance of the room and return.

Sit and Down on Command/Staying in PlaceAsk your dog to sit.  Tell them to stay.  Take one step backwards.  Count to 5. Return to your dog and release (Okay!).  Do the same with Down.

Coming when called
Instructor will hold your dog while you walk ½ the distance of the room.  Kneel down and call your dog (Buster – COME!!).  Make lots of noise!  You have to make your dog WANT to come to you instead of going to the distractions (other dogs).  Praise for 5-10 seconds when your dogs comes to you (petting, treats, toys, etc.).  While you are waiting for your turn, you can be working on Look, Sit, Down, etc.)

Weaning Treats
By now our dogs should start to have a clear understanding of some of the basic commands we have been working on.  We can now start to wean the treats with (just) these.  Sit, Down, maybe Look. If your dog isn’t doing them regularly at this point, it is probably not defiance, it’s probably that sometimes his dog brain takes over and he honestly does not know what you’re asking of him! But, for these three staples, we will assume he does…

You’re going to start with treats in both hands.  Show your dog your “luring” hand with the treat, and have your other hand behind your back.. Lure him into a sit. As soon as he sits, give him a treat from the opposite hand. This will start to show him to watch the hand signal, vs. to see if there is a treat in that hand. Practice this with Sit, Down and Look.




CANINE GOOD CITIZEN – WEEK TWO
AttentionAsk your dog to Look.  Remember to give his verbal praise or marker word (Yes!) the split second he looks up at you.  Hold your hands to your sides and alternate which hand the treat comes from.

Accepting a Friendly Stranger & Sitting Politely for PettingInstructor will be in the middle of the room.  Walk your dog nicely over to Instructor.  Ask your dog to sit.  Instructor will only give your dog attention if he remains sitting.  You can remind your dog to remain sitting, and ask him to pay attention to you (Look).

Out for a WalkRemember to hold on to the leash loosely.  Walk forward.  Stop.  Ask your dog to sit.  Try to keep their attention while you are walking, by talking to them, giving them treats, etc.  Walk the full distance of the room and return.

Sit and Down on Command/Staying in PlaceAsk your dog to sit.  Tell them to stay.  Go to the end of your leash.  Count to 5. Return to your dog and release (Okay!).  Do the same with Down.

Supervised Separation
While you are practicing your exercises, the instructor will be taking your dogs, one by one to practice this exercise.  Instructor will hold your dog while you exit the room for 1 minute.

Appearance and Grooming
Pet your dog all over.  Pick up each paw and inspect his pads and claws.  Look in each of his ears.

Coming when called
Instructor will hold your dog while you walk the distance of the room. Stay standing and call your dog.  Remember to sound happy instead of mad (would you want to come to someone that sounded mad?).  Praise for 5-10 seconds when your dogs comes to you.  While you are waiting for your turn, you can be working on Look, Sit, Down, etc.)

CANINE GOOD CITIZEN – WEEK THREE
AttentionAsk your dog to Look.  Remember to give his verbal praise or marker word (Yes!) the split second he looks up at you.  Hold your hands to your sides and alternate which hand the treat comes from.  Ask for a longer look.  Count to 5.  Try holding your hands behind your back.

Accepting a Friendly Stranger, Sitting Politely for Petting & Reaction to another dogTwo dogs and owners will go to center of the room.  Stand approx. 4 feet apart, facing each other.  Ask your dog to sit and stay.  Say Hello to each other and each other’s dogs.  You can remind your dog to remain sitting, and ask him to pay attention to you (Look).  Take your time if you need to.  You want your dog to know he has to sit nicely.

Out for a WalkWalk the full distance of the room in and return.  About Turn at the halfway point.

Walking through a crowdOther owners will have their dogs in a sit-stay, scattered around the room.  You will walk your dog on a loose leash through the crowd.

Sit and Down on Command/Staying in PlaceAsk your dog to sit.  Tell them to stay.  Drop your leash and go away 10 feet.  Count to 5. Return to your dog and release (Okay!).  Do the same with Down.

Supervised Separation
Instructor or assistant will hold your dog while you exit the room for 1.5 minutes.

Appearance and Grooming
Pet your dog all over.  Stroke your dog with the flat side of the brush. Pick up each paw and inspect his pads and claws.  Look in each of his ears.  Look at his teeth.

Coming when called
Instructor will hold your dog while you walk the distance of the room.  Call your dog.  Other dogs will be lined up along the wall for your dog to run past.  Other owners will be quietly praising their dogs as a distraction to you.


CANINE GOOD CITIZEN – WEEK FOUR
AttentionAsk your dog to Look.  Remember to give his verbal praise or marker word (Yes!) the split second he looks up at you.  Hold your hands to your sides and alternate which hand the treat comes from.  Ask for a longer look.  Count to 10.  Try holding your hands behind your back.

Accepting a Friendly Stranger, Sitting Politely for Petting & Reaction to another dogTwo dogs and owners will go to center of the room.  Stand approx. 2 feet apart, facing each other.  Ask your dog to sit and stay.  Say Hello to each other and each other’s dogs.  Shake hands with the other owner.  Pet the other dog gently.  You can remind your dog to remain sitting, and ask him to pay attention to you (Look).  Take your time if you need to.  You want your dog to know he has to sit nicely.

Out for a Walk & Reaction to DistractionsWalk the full distance of the room in and return.  About Turn at the halfway point.  Remember to talk to your dog and tell him he’s doing well!  Left turn and right turn added.  Distractions added. 

Walking through a crowdOther owners will have their dogs in a sit-stay, scattered around the room.  You will walk your dog on a loose leash through the crowd.

Sit and Down on Command/Staying in PlaceAsk your dog to sit.  Tell them to stay.  Drop your leash and walk 10 feet away.  Count to 10. Return to your dog and release.  Do the same with Down.  Ask your dog to look while he is in his stay.  Quietly praise him while he is staying.

Supervised Separation
Instructor or assistant will hold your dog while you exit the room for 2 minutes.

Appearance and Grooming
Pet your dog all over.  Stroke your dog with the bristle side of the brush. Pick up each paw and inspect his pads and claws.  Look in each of his ears.  Look at his teeth.  Ask him to sit and pick up his front paws one by one.

Coming when called
Instructor will hold your dog while you walk the distance of the room.  Call your dog.  Other owners will be walking around praising their dogs as a distraction to you.


CANINE GOOD CITIZEN – WEEK FIVE: TEST

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