top of page
Dog Walker at the Park

Canine Good Citizen Test (CGC)

What is the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test?

Unlock Your Dog's Full Potential

The Canine Good Citizen Program (CGC) is a six-week-long program created by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to encourage responsible dog ownership and good canine behavior. The program assesses basic obedience skills such as sit, stay, come, walking on a leash without pulling, and much more. Dogs that pass the CGC program are considered well-behaved, socialized, and capable of good behavior in everyday situations. 

​

The evaluation is conducted by certified evaluators, and the testing is available to all dogs, regardless of breed or age. At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, our San Diego dog trainers Amanda Martin and Tomas Natterstad provide a comprehensive program that includes training sessions and preparation for the CGC test. With the CGC certification, dogs have better access to public places and activities, which makes them better companions and valued members of the community!

Ready to sign up for the 

Canine Good Citizen Test?

Benefits of CGC Test at
Sit's Getting Real

This test helps your dog develop a great temperament, excellent manners, and advanced obedience skills, making them an ideal canine companion in any situation. Not only will your furry friend become a well-behaved dog, but you will also gain more confidence in your dog’s behavior.

 

The CGC test is a win-win situation for both you and your dog!

1.png

Comprehensive
Program

10.png

Well-Behaved
Dog

9.png

Compassionate
Trainers

  • If I live in Pacific Beach, will your trainers travel to me?
    Yes! If you are looking for private training, we have a mobile training service. If you are looking to do group classes, or looking to board and train your dog, you will have to travel to us. But don't sweat, our trainers have clients all across San Diego! We're here to help you in any way we can.
  • I have tried to train my dog myself, and I'm really frustrated. Can you help?
    Training a dog takes serious time and effort. We know it can be really tough training on your own. It can especially be frustrating if your dog has reactive behaviors, such as lunging at other dogs or people. Luckily, we have a team of expert trainers that are here to help. Amanda and Tomas are our trainers here at Sit's Getting Real, and they believe that EVERY dog can be the best they can be. They have experience with a wide range of dogs, and are ready to take some stress off your shoulders. If you're ready to commit to your dog, take the step and reach out to us!
  • I'm interested in group classes. What are some commands my dog learn?
    It depends what group class you take. For example: in obedience classes, dogs can learn a range of commands including, sit, stay, down, come, and more. Dogs can also learn leash skills and reactivity guidance. We offer different ranges of group classes: from obedience training, to agility training, to puppy training. Our group classes change every 6 weeks, so if you're interested in learning what we're offering this month, reach out! We're happy to put you and your pup in the right class.
  • Do you offer group classes?
    Yes, we offer a variety of group classes including Obedience/Leash Skills, Fitness/Agility, and Puppy Classes. Our experienced trainers Amanda and Tomas are here to help your dog succeed in a fun and supportive environment.
  • What breeds of dogs do you train?
    We train dogs of all breeds, sizes, shapes, and temperaments! Whether your dog is a tiny terrier or a large lab, our training programs are tailored to meet their unique needs. We love all dogs, and believe they have so much potential.
  • What services do you offer?
    We offer regular dog walking, enrichment walks, training walks, and customized care for dogs with special needs!
  • What is your policy on cancellations or rescheduling walks?
    Cancellations must be addressed 24 hours in advance. Last minute cancellations result in a $25 cancelation fee. Reschedules will be left up to the discretion of the dog walker!
  • Do you offer a trial walk or consultation before starting the service?
    Yes! We offer phone consultations, and also require the owner to be home for the first walk to ensure the walker and dog get along. If things don't go well the first walk, the service can be discontinued. We want to make sure your dog and our walker get along! That's our number one priority.
  • What should clients do if their dog has special needs or medical conditions?
    When consulting with our trainers and dog walker, we must be aware of any and all special needs/medical conditions, for the safety of your dog and the walker. There will be an additional $10 fee for medication treatment (not including pills or liquid put in food).
  • How do you ensure the safety of my dog?
    Safety is our top priority at Sit's Getting Real. Our dog handler Jennie uses secure leashes and harnesses, follows all traffic laws, and avoids potentially dangerous areas. We will also meet with you one-on-one before walking your dog to understand any specific triggers and ensure personalized care.
  • What steps do you take to ensure your dog walkers are reliable and trustworthy?
    All of our dog walkers are professionals who go through a screening process, including background checks and in-depth interviews.
  • How long are the walks?
    Walks can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your dog’s needs and your preferences.
  • How do you handle dogs behavior issues during walks?
    Our dog walkers at Sit's Getting Real are professionals, and have the training tools necessary to manage behavior issues. We provide treats to all our furry friends. Owners are responsible for providing treats on walks if any dog allergies exist.
  • Are you trained in handling different dog breeds and behaviors?
    Yes, with Jennie's extensive background as a vet tech, she is well-versed in handling a variety of breeds and behaviors.
  • Can I request specific routes or locations for my dog walk?
    Absolutely! You can request specific routes or locations for your dog walks. Just let us know your preferred route, and we will tailor our services to meet you and your dogs individual needs!
  • Do you provide any updates or reports to clients after each walk?
    YES! Our dog walking service is unique, as we share updates, reports, and photos provided after each walk.
  • What are the Requirements for Board and Train with Sit's Getting Real?
    Dogs are required to stay with us for a minimum of 2 weeks and proof of current vaccinations is required. Half of the board and train fee is required upfront, and the remaining half is due upon pickup, or broken up during the duration of your dog's stay! A credit card or access to a credit card will be required in case of veterinary emergencies, and vet information must be provided.
  • Can You Accommodate My Dog's Specific Diet or Feeding Schedule?
    Yes, we can! Our trainers Tomas and Amanda, who have extensive experience caring for a variety of dogs, will ensure your dog's specific diet and feeding schedule are meticulously followed We understand the importance of maintaining your dog's routine and providing personalized care. Your dog's health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are committed to making sure they are well taken care of during their stay with us!
  • Will My Dog Receive One-on-one Attention?
    Yes, your dog will receive one-on-one attention. We create a robust plan for the weeks your dog is with us, ensuring they get personalized care and focused interaction. This plan includes individualized training sessions and enrichment activities tailored to your dog's specific needs, ensuring a positive and productive experience during their stay.
  • What is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training?
    Positive reinforcement dog training utilizes reward-based training methods to encourage desired behaviors. A This creates a supportive and enjoyable learning environment for you and your pup. With their expertise, Amanda and Tomas at Sit's Getting Real empower you to build a trusting relationship with your dog based on encouragement and mutual respect.
  • When Do You Have Group Classes and How Much Do They Cost?
    Group classes run 6 weeks long, and are $300. At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, we are as transparent as possible and want YOU to know exactly what you are getting for what you are paying for. Our group classes occur on Saturdays, and run an hour long. You might assume that in our group classes, you won't receive individual attention from our trainers Amanda and Tomas. However, we intentionally keep our classes small to ensure that each client gets dedicated time with our trainers.
  • What Type Of Behaviors Can Be Address In Private Dog Training?
    If you’re looking to address specific behavior problems or work on obedience training in a one-on-one setting, private training might be right for you. Some common behaviors that can be addressed in private dog training include excessive barking, jumping on people, digging, chewing on personal items, and aggression towards people or other dogs. With the guidance of a professional trainer, pet owners can learn effective techniques for modifying these behaviors and improving your dog's overall obedience and behavior. Additionally, private training sessions provide a personalized approach that can be tailored to the individual dog, ensuring that the specific needs of you and your dog are met. Overall, private dog training provides a focused and effective way to address problem behaviors and build a stronger bond between you and your dog.
  • How Often Should I Train My Dog?
    As pet owners, we all want to give our dogs friends the best care possible, and that includes plenty of exercise and training. But how often should you be training your pup? The answer depends on your dog's age, breed, and individual needs. Generally speaking, most dogs benefit from daily training sessions to reinforce good behavior and strengthen the bond between owner and pet. However, it's important to remember that not all training needs to be formal or structured. Teaching your dog new tricks while playing in the backyard or incorporating obedience commands into everyday activities can also be effective training techniques. Ultimately, the key is to be consistent, patient, and attentive to your dog's needs.
  • Is It Too Late To Train My Dog?
    If you find yourself asking whether it's too late to train your dog, the answer is no! With the right tools and techniques, you can absolutely teach your dog new behaviors and improve their overall obedience. At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training in San Diego, our private trainers private help assess your situation and create a customized training plan tailor to you and your dog’s needs. So whether your furry friend is displaying undesirable behaviors or simply needs a refresher course, there's always room for learning and growth, no matter their age.
  • What Should I Expect At My First Private Dog Training Session?
    When you book a private dog training session with Tomas and Amanda, you can expect a personalized approach to your pup's behavior. As experienced trainers, they begin with a thorough assessment of your dog's habits and listen attentively to your needs and concerns. This information helps them create a custom plan tailored to your goals. Whether you're trying to address persistent barking, leash-pulling, or any other unwanted behavior, they'll develop a strategy that works for you and your dog . If you're ready to get started, fill out our consultation form here!
  • Is Puppy Training Better in a Group or Private?
    Puppy training can be beneficial in both group and individual settings. At Sit’s Getting Real Dog training, we offer both private and group training sessions available to dog owners in San Diego. Our group training classes provide puppies with the opportunity to socialize and learn from other puppies while also providing instruction and supervision from a professional dog trainer.
  • How Long Do I Have to Train My Dog To See Results?
    The amount of time needed to see results will depend on the individual dog and the goals you have for training. Generally, most positive reinforcement training methods require consistent practice in order to achieve desired results. At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, we offer 5 week long group training classes that include activities to help dogs become better socialized and trained. Our classes emphasize positive reinforcement methods to ensure the most effective and rewarding outcomes for both dog parents and their pups.
  • Is Group Training Effective?
    Yes, group dog training can be beneficial for both you and your dog. Group settings provide dogs with opportunities to learn how to interact with other dogs and people in a controlled environment. The dog trainers at Sit's Getting Real specialize in positive-reinforcement dog training. Positive-reinforcement dog training utilizes a reward-based system, where treats and verbal praise are used as motivators whenever your dog demonstrates the correct behavior.
  • What Training Methods Does Sit's Getting Real Use?
    At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, we use positive reinforcement training methods to help dogs learn faster and more effectively. In group classes, we strive to provide a safe and stimulating environment where each dog can practice commands and learn new tricks. Positive reinforcement helps create an atmosphere of trust and cooperation between the dog handler and the pup.
  • How long are the group training classes and private training sessions?
    When it comes to obedience training for dogs, many pet owners wonder if there are age restrictions for when their furry companions can start. Luckily, at Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, we work with dogs of all ages and breeds. Whether you have a playful puppy or a seasoned senior, we have techniques and strategies designed to help your pooch become the most well-behaved pup in town. It's never too late to start teaching your dog basic commands like sit, stay, and come, and our professional trainers are here to guide you every step of the way. So, no matter how old your furry best friend may be, we can help them become the obedient and well-trained companion you've always dreamed of.
  • What is the cost of group training classes and private training sessions?
    When it comes to improving your dogs mental and physical abilities, group training classes and private training sessions are both great options. Group training classes at Sit’s Getting Real are $300 for six classes, making them a more affordable option for those who want the guidance of a professional trainer without breaking the bank. Private training sessions, on the other hand, start at $149 for just one session but offer a more personalized experience tailored specifically to your fitness goals. While the cost may be higher for private training sessions, the one-on-one attention and accountability can make all the difference in achieving your fitness goals. Ultimately, the choice between group training and private training comes down to personal preferences and budget.
  • What training methods does Sit's Getting Real Dog Training use for dog obedience classes and private training sessions?
    Sit's Getting Real Dog Training is committed to using positive reinforcement-based training methods that yield long-lasting results for both group training classes and private training sessions. The clicker method is one technique our dog trainers use that relies on a sound as a marker to indicate to the dog that it has done something right and will now receive a reward. This method is highly effective in communication and provides clear, concise feedback to the dog. Sit's Getting Real also uses a treat-focused approach, which involves rewarding the dog with treats for good behavior, positive responses, and successful completion of tasks. Whether in a group setting or a one-on-one session, this method of training ensures that the dog feels engaged, motivated, and eager to learn!
  • Test 1: Accepting a new stranger
    By passing the first test, a dog demonstrates his or her ability to not only interact positively with the owner but also with other people in general.
  • Test 4: Out for a walk
    The fourth test of the canine citizen evaluation requires the dog to demonstrate appropriate behavior while on a walk, including not pulling on the leash and responding correctly to commands from their handler.
  • Test 6: Sit and down on cue and stay in place
    The sixth test requires dogs to demonstrate their knowledge of basic cues such as sitting and lying down on command and then remaining in that position for a designated period of time.
  • Test 9: Reaction to distractions
    The ninth test of the Canine Citizen program evaluates the dog's reaction to distractions such as loud noises, unfamiliar objects, and other animals.
  • Test 10: Supervised separation
    In this tenth test, a controlled environment will be used to assess the canine's self-control when being separated from its human companion.
  • Test 7: Coming when called
    The seventh test involves teaching your pet dog to come when called, which is an important behavior for obedience and safety.
  • Test 5: Walk through a crowd
    The fifth test requires the dog to remain focused, steady and well-behaved while navigating their way through a crowd of people.
  • Test 8: Reaction to another dog
    The eighth test observes the reaction of the dog when encountering another dog, such as how the dog behaves and if they are friendly or not.
  • Test 2: Sitting politely for petting
    The second test assesses a dog's ability to stay in place and tolerate petting from strangers without fear or aggression.
  • Test 3: Appearance and grooming
    This third test evaluates the size, shape, coat quality, and general cleanliness of the dog to ensure that it meets basic hygiene standards.
  • Can I fix my dog’s reactive or aggressive behaviors?
    Yes, it is possible to improve and modify your dog's reactive or aggressive behaviors with consistent training. It's important to note that there is no "one-size fit's all" fix. Helping your dog requires patience, commitment, and time. If you've spent time scrolling on TikTok or browsing through YouTube for answers, and haven't been successful, it's important to reach out to an experience dog trainer or dog behaviorist.
  • How do you desensitize a reactive dog?
    Desensitizing a reactive dog involves exposure to the trigger at a safe distance or intensity level where the dog remains calm. By pairing this exposure with positive experiences like treats or play, the dog learns to associate the trigger with something enjoyable, gradually reducing its reactivity over time. Consistent repetition, patience, and careful management of your dog's environment during desensitization are crucial for successful behavior modification.
  • How can I tell if my dog is reactive?
    You can identify if your dog is reactive by observing behaviors such as excessive barking, growling, pulling on the leash, or anxiety when encountering specific triggers.
  • Is there a difference between aggressive and reactive dogs?
    Yes, reactive dogs typically overreact to specific triggers but might not intend harm, while aggressive dogs display behaviors with an intent to cause harm.
  • What is positive reinforcement dog training?
    Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding dogs behavior and ignoring bad behavior. At Sit’s Getting Real, our dog trainers use positive reinforcement-based techniques to help you create a rewarding, positive experience for both you and your dog. Both Amanda and Tomas are committed to creating a positive learning environment to help achieve your goals!
  • Do you offer group classes or private sessions?
    Good news, We offer both! For dogs with more specific or challenging behaviors that require individual attention, we recommend starting with private sessions. This allows us to focus on your dog's unique needs in a one-on-one setting. After addressing those initial concerns, many of our clients transition to group sessions, which can provide additional socialization opportunities and reinforce the skills learned during private training.
  • My dog is reactive and aggressive. Can you still help train them?
    Absolutely, our trainers Amanda and Tomas are dedicated to working with dogs of all temperaments, including those with aggressive and reactive behaviors. We have a comprehensive process in place to ensure both your safety and the safety of our trainers. Please reach out to us for more details on how we can assist in addressing your dog's behavior effectively!

Canine Good Citzen Cost

At Sit's Getting Real Dog Training, the Canine Good Citizen course is a six-week program that offers comprehensive instruction in canine behavior and etiquette. It is designed to provide a safe and controlled environment for dogs of all ages to learn basic obedience and good manners. 

$300

Six-week course

Ready to unlock your dog's full potential? Sign up today!

bottom of page