The Canine Good Citizen test is a test that tests a dog's manners and ability to deal appropriately with everyday situations like other people and other dogs. The test is comprised of 10 individual tests and all individual tests must be passed in order to pass the test.
Accepting a Friendly Stranger
The dog must allow a stranger to approach and speak to the handler in a friendly manner. The evaluator will shake hands with the handler, but does not pet the dog.
Sitting Politely for Petting
The dog should allow a friendly stranger to pet it while the handler is there. The dog shouldn't be shy or resentful.
Appearance and Grooming
The dog should allow a stranger to look at ears, touch both front feet, and run a brush along its back.
Out for a Walk
The dog should be able to walk with the handler, on a loose leash, on either side of the handler - whichever side the handler wants. There should be a right turn, a left turn, and an about turn. There will be two stops and the dog should stop when the handler stops.
Walking Through a Crowd
The dog should be able to walk through a crowd of three or more people without showing resentment, overexubernce, or shyness. The dog may show some interest in the people.
Sit and Down on Command/Staying in Place
The dog should sit and down on command from the handler. The dog should stay on command while the handler waslks to the end of a 20 foot line and then returns. The dog may be in a sit-stay or a down-stay.
Coming When Called
The dog should come when the handler walks away from the dog, turns, and calls the dog to come. The handler should walk at least 10 feet away.
Reaction to Another Dog
Handler and dog approach a second handler with dog. The handlers shake hands and say hello and then continue. The dog may show a casual interest in the other dog, but no more than that.
Reaction to Distractions
The dog should not be fazed by common distractions such as cars, joggers, people with crutches, or loud noises. The dog may show interest, but should not panic, bark, or be aggressive.
Supervised Separation
The dog should not mind being left with a trusted stranger for a period of 3 minutes while the handler is out of sight. The dog should be on a 6 foot leash which the evaluator holds.