One of the things as a dog owner we face is responsibility to our pet.
Our dogs need to be socialized to give them a secure feeling of being around other people. Of being able to be calm in social situations. Well behaved confident and secure. When we teach dogs these social manners It shows people what dogs can be. People that were fearful of dogs learn that dogs aren't unruly monsters. Children learn that dogs are gentle and kind.
We have an obligation to our dogs and ourselves and society to give them this training.
One of the things you can do is get your pet its Good Citizen award. Called CGC in AKC terms.
In the United States, about 30,000 dogs take th CGC test each year. Since 1989 more than 1.5 million dogs have recieved certification. The CGC program encourages responsible dog ownership and raises awareness of the importance of socialization and basic training for our dogs.
A dog must be 6 months old and pass a 10 step test. The test demonstrates that the dogs have training and demeanor to act mannerly in the home and in public places, and in the presence of other dogs.
The test requires a dog to calmly allow a stranger to approach and converse with its handler, to allow a stranger to pet it, and to permit the stranger to brush or comb it. The dog must heel on a loose leash and show that it can move politely in pedestrian traffic. It must sit, and lie down on command, stay, and come when called.
The CGC test is a good gauge of temperament and stability. In fact , Therapy Dogs International, a group that provides dog therapy to the aging and infirm, uses the CGC test to screen potential dogs for its programs.
Owners can find CGC training and testing sponsored in their community by dog clubs, dog training schools, and other groups such as community colleges, 4-H clubs, and scout troops.
A 10-STEP PROGRAM
The purpose of the CGC program is to ensure that our favorite companion, the dog, can be a respected member of the community. All dogs who pass the CGC test receive a certificate from the AKC and are automatically recorded in the canine Good Citizen Archive. The Canine Good Citizen Test includes the following:
Test 1 : Accepting a friendly stranger
Test 2: Sitting politely for petting
Test 3: Appearance and grooming
Test 4: Walking on a loose lead
Test 5: Walking through a crowd
Test 6: Sit and down on command;staying in place
Test 7 : Coming when called
Test 8: Reaction to another dog
Test9: Reactions to distractions
Test10: Supervised separation
For more information on, or to get a brochure about, the AKC Canine Good Citizen program, call 1-850-877-2901 or e-mail cgc@akc.org
Being responsible with your dog is a necessity for the safety of your dog and a curtisy to others It also sets a good example to other dog owners and those that don't own dogs.
