Labrador Training: The AKC CGC Program And Good Manners

The AKC Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

Teaching your Labrador good manners is imperative for a great relationship. Not only will it be necessary for everyday life, it will also make special occasions such as having guests over or going out to public places more enjoyable. One way to ensure that you’re establishing good manners in your dog is to engage in AKC’s Canine Good Citizen Program (CGC).

The AKC organized the program to provide people with a guideline to follow when teaching their dog good conduct as well as encourage responsible dog ownership. Some people also uaw the CGC Program as practice for more difficult achievements such as service dog training and sports training.

Can my Labrador participate?

All dog breeds including mixed dogs can obtain an AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate as long as they pass the test. However, your Labrador must be fully vaccinated before the event, which is usually obtained at 4 to 6 months of age.

If your Labrador takes the test at an early age and passes, the process should be repeated when your dog reaches adulthood, as their behavior can change. You can also enroll your Lab puppy in the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program, which is like the AKC CGC Program but for dogs less than 1 year old, and then in the CGC test when he or she is older.    

Preparing your Labrador for the test

It’s important that you know what the AKC CGC test involves so that you can properly prepare your Labrador Retriever. Things your canine will be expected to do include;

• Staying relaxed when a stranger gets near and engages in a conversation with you.


• Staying relaxed while a strange person pets him or her.


• Being comfortable with the type of handling that is performed by veterinary professionals and groomers.


• Walking on a leash in different environments (crowded, quiet, noisy, etc.) without pulling or jumping.


• Staying at ease when a dog and their owner comes near.


• Staying at ease when the leash is handed over to another person.


• Remaining calm and focused despite noises, smells and other distractions in the area.


• Obeying when asked to “come.”


• Successfully performing the “sit,” “stay,” and “down” commands.

During the test, you can only use verbal motivation to help your Lab. Food, toys and other objects cannot be used for encouragement. Urinating or defecating inappropriately, barking, growling, and other undesirable behavior that takes place during the evaluation will also lead to automatic disqualification.

AKC Canine Good Citizen Labrador training

If you want your Lab to pass the AKC CGC test while he or she is still a puppy, you’ll have to focus training sessions on obedience and socialization. Your puppy should know the basic commands, be comfortable being handled by strangers, and keep his or her composure in different places and situations. 

You can also obtain professional help by asking for a recommendation from an AKC evaluator near you. This way you will work with a reputable dog trainer who is familiar with the AKC Canine Good Citizen test requirements. 

Once you feel your Labrador is ready to take the test, go to the AKC website, find an evaluator close by and schedule the test!

“Whoever said you can’t buy happiness forgot about puppies.” – Gene Hill

Watch these videos below to get an idea as to what happens in the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test.

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