Canine Good Citizen Programs - CGC, CGCA, CGCU
We offer two CGC classes each year, held in the spring and fall.
CGCA and CGCU are also offered occasionally to anyone who has passed the CGC.
Although there is no minimum attendance requirement for this program, CGC testing is reserved for dogs who have attended our classes. Consistent participation ensures dogs receive the full scope of instruction, repetition, and evaluation necessary to meet CGC standards and demonstrate dependable behaviors in a testing environment. The included CGC test is administered the last week of class.
$130 for 9 week class
Starting March 4, 2026 @ 7:00pm
WHAT IS CGC?
The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is a nationally recognized certification offered by the American Kennel Club that promotes responsible dog ownership and encourages the development of well-mannered dogs. Often considered a foundational step in canine training, the CGC program is ideal for pet owners who want a polite, well-behaved companion at home and in public. It also serves as an entry point for dogs pursuing therapy work, competitive dog sports, or more advanced obedience training. The CGC test evaluates a dog’s ability to remain calm, controlled, and responsive in everyday situations. Upon successful completion, dogs earn an official AKC title and certificate—proof that they are true canine good citizens.
Canine Good Citizen is a 10-skill test that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners.
Our program is designed to teach you how to train your own dog. We do not train the dog for you. Instead, we guide you through the process so you can build clear communication, consistency, and a lasting working relationship with your dog. The success you see in this class is directly tied to the effort you put in outside of class. The more you practice and stay consistent, the better your results will be.
ELIGIBILITY
CGC is open to all dogs–purebred and mixed breed. There are no age limits for participating in the Canine Good Citizen program. Although there is no minimum attendance requirement for this program, our CGC testing is reserved for dogs who have attended our classes.
CLASS REQUIREMENTS
We recommend that dogs be at least 4 months of age at the start of class. Dogs should be current on age-appropriate vaccinations, including rabies as required by law.
Please bring the following to every class:
- Chain training collar (flat buckle or properly fitted martingale if approved by training director).
No harnesses, retractable leashes, prong collars, or head halters during class unless approved in advance. - 6-foot leash (non-retractable).
- High-value treats (soft, pea-sized, and something your dog does not get every day — think “worth working for,” not “meh.”)
- Poop bags for clean-up.
Training collars and 6-foot leashes will be available for purchase during class if needed. For best results, please arrive a few minutes early so your dog has an opportunity to potty before entering the building. Dogs learn more effectively when they are comfortable, prepared, and properly equipped.
REFUND & TRANSFER POLICY
Refunds are available through the second class session. After the second class meeting, no refunds will be issued.
Because class size is limited and spots are reserved in advance, we are unable to offer refunds beyond this point. However, if a handler is unable to continue due to unforeseen circumstances, a one-time transfer or class credit may be granted at the discretion of the Training Director.
Credits must be used within one calendar year.
Transfers are subject to space availability.
Missed classes are not eligible for partial refunds.
- Convenience fees included on Paypal payments are non-refundable.
We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep classes structured, fair, and consistent for all participants.