CGC Evaluation and Testing includes:

1. Accepting a Friendly Stranger

   This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness and must not break position or try to go to the evaulator.

2. Sitting Politely for Petting

   This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. The evaluator pets the dog and then circles the dog and handler. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.

3. Appearance and Grooming

   This Practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit a stranger to do so. It also memonstrates the owner's care, concern and responsibility. The evaluator inspects the dog, combs or brushes the dog, and lightly examines the ears and each foot.

4. Out for a Walk (Walking on a loose leash)

   This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions or commands. There must be a left turn, a right turn and an about turn, with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops.

5. Walking Through a Crowd

   This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people. The dog may show some interest in the strangers but must not strain at the lead.

6. Sit and Down on Command/Staying in Place

   This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's command to sit and down and will remain in place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The handler may take the reasonable amount of time and use more than one command.

7. Coming When Called

   This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and will call the dog. The handler may use body language and encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to "stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog as the evaluator provides mild distractions (e.g. petting).

8. Reaction to Another Dog

   This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 10 yards, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 5 yards. The dogs should show no more than a casual interest in each other.

9. Reaction to Distractions

   This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The dog may express a natural interest and curiosity and may appear slightly startled, but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness or bark.

10. Supervised Separation

    This test demonstrates that the dog can be left alone, if necessary, and will maintain its training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to ask to hold the dog and take the leash. The dog will be held for 3 minutes and does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, howl, pace unnecessarily or show anything other than mild agitation or nervousness.

Contributed by Carolyn Sanford