🐶 What Happens During an AKC Test?

An AKC test, like the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test, is designed to evaluate your dog’s behavior and manners in everyday situations. It’s not just about obedience—it’s about being a well-behaved member of the community.

During the test, a certified evaluator will guide you and your dog through 10 exercises that assess:

1. Accepting a friendly stranger – Your dog allows a stranger to approach without showing fear or aggression.

2. Sitting politely for petting – Your dog remains calm while being gently petted by a stranger.

3. Appearance and grooming – Your dog allows handling of their ears and front feet, as if being groomed.

4. Walking on a loose leash – Your dog walks politely beside you on a leash.

5. Walking through a crowd – Your dog stays calm and focused while passing through a group of people.

6. Sit and down on command, and staying in place – Your dog can sit, lie down, and stay when asked.

7. Coming when called – Your dog comes to you from a short distance.

8. Reaction to another dog – Your dog behaves politely around another dog.

9. Reaction to distractions – Your dog stays calm when faced with everyday noises or distractions.

10. Supervised separation – Your dog remains calm when left with a stranger for 3 minutes while you are out of sight.

No treats or training tools (like prong or electronic collars) are allowed during the test—just a flat collar or harness and your teamwork!

Passing the test means your dog is officially recognized by the AKC as a Canine Good Citizen, and you’ll receive a certificate you can be proud of.