CGC-Life Skills

Help your dog learn practical obedience skills such as:

Politely greeting people without jumping up
Walking with a loose leash by other dogs and people without pulling, barking, lunging
Responding quickly to stationary cues like Sit, Down, and Stay
Coming when called - including by distractions

The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is a well-known and standardized evaluation that serves as an indicator of a dog's good behavior and obedience. This test is widely recognized by various individuals and entities, including animal control officers, landlords, and insurance companies.

The CGC program includes a 10-skill test that focuses on teaching good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners. It covers essential skills like walking politely on a leash, sitting politely for petting, and coming when called. The program is open to all dogs, both purebred and mixed breed, with no age restrictions.

We understand that every dog learns at their own pace, and our goal is to provide a positive and supportive environment for you and your dog to succeed. Whether you're just starting your training journey or have been attending classes for a while, our CGC evaluations will be scheduled at the ideal time for you and your fellow students.

What makes our CGC-Life Skills classes unique?

Small class size
Focus on positive training without compulsion
Train safely on and off-leash in a large arena
Teams work together so your dog gets to practice greetings with every student.

Our CGC Evaluations are designed to provide you and your dog with the best chance for success. Instead of waiting until the end of a series of classes, where you may not feel fully prepared, we offer evaluations in class when enough students are ready to pass easily.

By offering evaluations at a time when you and your dog are well-prepared, we ensure that you have the best opportunity to showcase your dog's good behavior and obedience. This approach allows for a more individualized and tailored experience, ensuring that you and your dog feel confident and ready for the evaluation.

Class Tips

No matter what level your dog is currently at, we have you covered. Our classes include all skills levels. This ensures that you and your dog can continue to progress at your pace.

To make it even more convenient for you, classes are offered twice a week. You can choose to attend on either Thursdays at 9:30 am or Saturdays at 11:00 am (or both!). This way, you can easily find a time that fits perfectly into your schedule.

Our CGC-Life Skills classes are specifically designed to fit your needs. We offer flexible open-enrollment classes, meaning that new students can register for any available class.

We now offer three convenient ways to enroll:

Single class: This option is a great way to try out a class without any further commitment. You can attend a class of your choice and decide if it's the right fit for you and your dog.

Package of classes: Looking to dive deeper into your training journey? Purchase a package of four classes which offers you a discounted rate per class and provides scheduling flexibility.

Subscription: For a hassle-free and continuous learning experience, our subscription option is perfect. You'll have access to four classes per month, with automatic and convenient monthly payments. It's a great way to stay committed and make consistent progress.

Learn More About the AKC Family Dog Programs

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Booker earns his AKC Virtual Home Manners Puppy and Adult titles

The Virtual Home Manners assess skills, including walking the dog and developing a bond during playtime.

Virtual Home Manners are evaluated online by CGC Evaluators in the same manner used for Virtual Tricks.

Click on the photo above to watch a VHMA evaluation.

Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

The CGC includes skills of accepting a friendly stranger, sitting politely for petting and grooming, loose leash walking, sit/down/stay, and coming to you when called.

Click on the photo above to watch a CGC evaluation.

Community Canine (CGCA)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Community Canine (CGCA)

AKC CGCA/CGCU teams outside Lowes Hardware

The CGCA includes more advanced versions of the CGC skills done in a real-world environment, plus having your dog walk by food on the ground and more challenging recalls.

Click on the photo above to watch a CGCA evaluation.

Urban Canine (CGCU)

Temperament Test (ATT)

Community Canine (CGCA)

AKC Urban Canine (CGCU) Crossing the street skill.

The CGCU includes the CGCA skills done in an urban environment, plus having your dog cross a busy street on a leash and walk upstairs/elevator.

Click on the photo above to watch a CGCU evaluation.

Temperament Test (ATT)

The ATT includes six categories: Social,

Auditory, Visual, Tactile, Proprioceptive (motion), and Unexpected stimulus.

Click on the photo above to watch an ATT evaluation.

CGC-Life Skills

What makes our CGC-Life Skills classes unique?

Class Tips

Learn More About the AKC Family Dog Programs

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Community Canine (CGCA)

Virtual Home Manners (VHMA/VHMP)

Community Canine (CGCA)

Urban Canine (CGCU)

Temperament Test (ATT)

Community Canine (CGCA)

Temperament Test (ATT)

Temperament Test (ATT)

Temperament Test (ATT)

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