CGC Testing

[courtneyrose]

What are the benefits of a dog passing the CGC test? I know the requirements are things that a well mannered dog should already be trained to do, so I'm aware that it's good to have a dog able to pass the test. I'm just curious if there is any benefit to a dog specifically taking the test and being labeled a Canine Good Citizen versus an unlabeled dog who could just as easily pass but hasn't tested. Also, I read that to be a S.T.A.R. Puppy a puppy must take an official class and can't just be owner trained. Is this also true of the CGC program?

[JimmyThy]

Anyone can train the dog to pass the CGC test.

It's a brag, and also helps pave the way for therapy dog certification with various organizations. Sorry -- don't have specific, personal experience with other areas/activities it'll pave the way for, but I'm sure there are.

[EskieMa]

The CGC can get some people lower rates on home insurance and renters insurance. There have been many instances where renters have been allowed to get housing despite a no pets sign.

Although anyone can train a dog to take the test that person needs to throughly understand the test and what it means.  A dog can be groomed by his owner but may not allow a strange person with a comb/brush to bring it anywhere near his body.

[snowballsmom]

snoopy has his CGC. i did it just to see if he could. the biggest benefit is knowing you can do it, i guess. he's still got a big attitude bug so it really helps us none    also the test is only one item difference from the therapy dog test. if youre going to try one, do the therapy test. they're usually the same day and price. i wish i'd done that with him.