American Kennel Club (AKC) Evaluations
AKC evaluation of dogs, particularly through programs like the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test, is important because it provides a standardized way to assess a dog's behavior and temperament, indicating whether a dog is well-trained and suitable for public spaces, which can be beneficial for responsible dog ownership, potential adoption situations, and even access to certain housing or community areas; it also helps promote responsible breeding practices by highlighting dogs with good temperament traits within a breed.
Evaluations
AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy
The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is a foundation training program by the American Kennel Club that promotes responsible pet ownership and early socialization for puppies up to one year old.
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To earn the S.T.A.R. Puppy distinction, dogs must complete a six-week training class taught by an AKC-approved evaluator and pass a 20-step test covering basic manners, socialization, and owner responsibility.
AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is a certification by the American Kennel Club that recognizes well-mannered dogs and responsible pet ownership through basic obedience and good behavior in public settings.
To earn the CGC title, dogs must pass a 10-step test conducted by an AKC-approved evaluator, demonstrating skills such as sitting politely, coming when called, and remaining calm around distractions, with no age limit for participation.
AKC Community Canine ("Advanced" CGCA)
The AKC Community Canine (CGCA) program is an advanced level of the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification that tests a dog's ability to demonstrate good manners in real-world community settings.
To earn the CGCA title, dogs must already have a CGC certificate and pass a 10-step test conducted by an AKC-approved evaluator in public environments, with no age limit for participation.
AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen​ (CGCU)
The AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU) program is an advanced certification that evaluates a dog's ability to demonstrate good manners and obedience in busy urban environments.
To earn the CGCU title, dogs must already have a CGC certificate and pass a 10-step test conducted by an AKC-approved evaluator in real-world city settings, with no age limit for participation.
AKC Trick Dog
The AKC Trick Dog program is a fun training certification that encourages dogs and their owners to learn and perform tricks, promoting engagement and skill-building.
To earn a Trick Dog title, dogs must demonstrate a set number of tricks corresponding to their chosen level—Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Performer, or Elite Performer—with no age limit for participation.
