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Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

We all want dogs who are "good citizens," and with fairly minimal consistent training, Havanese are perfect candidates for this AKC title. The Canine Good Citizen, or CGC, test is a challenging course for dogs to handle everyday types of situations in a calm, controlled manner. A dog is asked to walk on a leash around other people, past other non-threatening dogs, through a crowd with distractions (e.g. umbrella, wheelchair, etc.), sit, come on command, allow another person to groom it, and hold the dog while the handler goes out of sight for several minutes.

 

Many local training centers have classes that will help you train your dog to the basics, or you can find online resources to do it at home. BUT... a large part of CGD is the dog reacting appropriately around other people (e.g. strangers) and in unfamiliar surroundings, so field trips are very important. 

Dogs who earn the CGC title may move on to earn a CGCA title, AKC Community Canine, where testing is done out in the community. There is also the CGCU, AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen, testing for which is done in an urban setting where the dog may encounter busy traffic, crossing streets, taking transportation via car, subway, etc., using elevators or stairs, etc. 

A separate but similar set of skills related to agricultural areas is the Farm Dog Test, showing the dog can behave appropriately around farm animals and environment.  

Here's a link to the AKC Canine Good Citizen information.

Challenges for the Dog

Not much physical exertion. The dog should be able to adapt to slightly stressful situations.  

Challenges for the Handler

Low physical exertion. 

Training Needs

The dog will need to remain calm and follow basic commands. 

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