What is the CGC
The AKC describes Canine Good Citizen as a 10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to owners. It's open to purebred and mixed-breed dogs, and dogs take it with an approved evaluator. Dogs that pass earn the CGC title.
AKC also offers the Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU), which tests similar skills in a busy, city-like environment and requires a CGC first.
The 10 CGC test items
- Accepting a friendly stranger.
- Sitting politely for petting.
- Accepting grooming and examination.
- Walking on a loose leash.
- Walking through a crowd.
- Sit, down and stay in place on cue.
- Coming when called.
- Reacting politely to other dogs.
- Reacting calmly to distractions.
- Supervised separation from the owner.
CGC in PSD training
Every service dog needs reliable manners before it works in public, because the ADA lets a business exclude a dog that is out of control when the handler doesn't take effective action. CGC skills like loose-leash walking, calm greetings and handling distractions line up well with that need.
That's why many owner-trainers use the CGC as an early benchmark, then build task training and more advanced public access work on top of it.
What the CGC is not
The CGC does not test disability-related tasks, so it doesn't show that a dog is a service animal. AKC itself states that passing CGC or CGCU does not make a dog a service or emotional support dog, and calls misrepresenting a pet as one unethical.
Federal law doesn't require a CGC or any other certificate. Staff can't ask for training documentation, and a CGC certificate doesn't change your rights.
Preparing for the CGC test
AKC's step-by-step CGC guidance breaks each skill into small pieces you can practice at home and then in new places. Short daily sessions, lots of rewards and practice around mild distractions tend to work better than long drills. Many training clubs and trainers offer CGC classes that end with the test, which can also be a supportive way to build confidence for both you and your dog before you move on to task training and busier public settings, and to real-world outings. Passing is a milestone worth celebrating, but it's one step on a longer road.
Canine Good Citizen FAQ
Is the CGC required for a psychiatric service dog?
No. Federal law requires no certificate or test; the CGC is an optional manners benchmark.
Can a mixed-breed dog take the CGC?
Yes. AKC says the program is open to all dogs, purebred and mixed breed.
Does the CGC test tasks?
No. It tests basic manners and control, not disability-related tasks.
Can I show a CGC certificate to a store?
You can, but staff can't require it, and it doesn't establish service dog status.
What is the CGCU?
The AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen tests CGC skills in a busier real-world setting and requires a CGC first.
Where do I take the test?
With an AKC-approved evaluator. AKC's website helps you find one near you.
Sources
We cite government agencies, professional societies and peer-reviewed research. See our editorial policy.
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC)American Kennel Club
- Step-by-Step CGC TrainingAmerican Kennel Club
- About AKC Urban Canine Good CitizenAmerican Kennel Club
- ADA Requirements: Service AnimalsU.S. Department of Justice (ADA.gov)