Canine Good Citizen Gold

Canine Good Citizen Gold

BEFORE A GOLD CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED – all the following Tests must have been passed at one session. Dogs may be tested singly or in groups.

Test 1 ROAD WALK.

This is to demonstrate that the dog has the ability to walk on lead beside the handler and for the handler to determine the speed of the walk. The test should be carried out at a suitable outdoor location and an occasional tight lead will be acceptable. The handler and dog should walk along a pavement, execute a turn, and then stop at the curb where the dog should remain steady and controlled. On command from the evaluator they should proceed to cross the road whilst observing the traffic code. On reaching the other side of the road, they should turn and continue walking, making a few changes of pace from normal to slow or fast pace. The handler and dog should then return back across the road to the starting point of the exercise. Distractions should be incorporated to include passing vehicles, bicycles, people, wheelchairs, prams, etc. Note: The turns are only a test of ability to change direction.

Test 2 RETURN TO HANDLER’S SIDE.

This is to demonstrate that the handler is able to bring the dog back under close control during a walk off lead. With the dog off lead and not less than ten paces away, upon instruction from the Evaluator, the dog will be called back to the walking handler’s side and both should continue together the dog under control for approximately ten paces. Note: The dog moving loosely at the handler’s side, but under control, is quite acceptable and there should not be a halt to complete the test.

Test 3 WALK FREE BESIDE HANDLER.

This is to demonstrate that the dog is able to walk free next to the handler as if walking in a park. This is not a heelwork exercise but a test of control while the dog is off lead walking next to the handler for approximately forty paces. The dog should be in near proximity to the handler. Two changes of direction should take place and there should be a distraction of another handler passing with a dog on a lead. When instructed by the Evaluator the dog will be placed back on the lead to finish the test. Note: The changes of direction are right and left turns without formality.

Test 4 STAY IN ONE PLACE.

This is to demonstrate that the dog will remain at the down position on the spot while the handler moves away for two minutes, whilst being both in and out of sight. The stay should be tested off lead and the handler will be requested to move out of sight for about 30 seconds. Whilst in sight the handlers should be approximately ten paces away from their dogs. Note: The dogs should remain in the down position in one spot.

Test 5 SEND THE DOG TO BED.

This is to demonstrate that the handler has control over the dog that might be required in the home. The handler will provide the dog’s bed, blanket, mat or article of clothing etc. The handler should place the dog’s bed in a place determined by the Evaluator. The handler will stand approximately ten paces away from the bed. On the instruction of the Evaluator, the handler should send the dog to go to the item of bedding. The dog should remain there until the Evaluator is satisfied that the dog is settled. Note: The dog is not being sent to bed in disgrace. Where possible this test should be conducted indoors. The item of bedding used should be suitable for the dog being tested and no enticement using toys or food should be used.

Test 6 STOP THE DOG.

This is to demonstrate that the handler has the ability to stop the dog at a distance in an emergency situation. With the dog off lead and at a distance of not less than ten paces away the handler will be instructed by the Evaluator to stop the dog, on the spot ,in any position. Note: The dog is expected to respond immediately but if moving at speed, will be allowed a reasonable distance to come to a stop.

Test 7 RELAXED ISOLATION.

This is to demonstrate that the dog is relaxed when left in isolation. During such times the dog should not become agitated, unduly restless or defensive. The handler should fasten the dog to a line of approximately two metres and then to move out of sight for between two to five minutes as directed by the Evaluator. Several dogs can be tested at the same time, provided there is sufficient space between the dogs. It is acceptable for the dogs to move around during isolation, however should the dog whine, howl, bark or indulge in any disruptive activities, the dog will fail this test. Note: Dogs should be tested for their relaxed behaviour in isolation without any prior controls having being imposed by the handler before leaving. This is not a stay exercise and handlers may settle their dogs before leaving. This is a practical test and no enticements of food, toys or blankets may be used during this test.

Test 8 FOOD MANNERS.

This is to demonstrate that the dog can be fed in an orderly manner. The handler will offer food to the dog either by hand or in a bowl. The dog must wait for permission to eat. After a three to five second pause the handler will be asked to give the dog the command to eat . Note: The dog should not eat until given permission, however if the dog attempts to do so, it is acceptable for the handler to restrain the dog by using voice commands only.

Test 9 EXAMINATION OF THE DOG.

This is to demonstrate that the dog will allow inspection by a stranger as might be undertaken by a veterinary surgeon. The dog on lead will be required to be placed for inspection of mouth, throat, eyes, ears, and feet when standing, sitting or lying down as required. Other than mild avoidance the dog should allow inspection without concern. Note: It is the responsibility of the training officials/ evaluator to ensure that only suitable dogs take part in this test. NOTE A TABLE MAY BE USED FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THOSE DOGS WHICH ARE CUSTOMARILY JUDGED ON A TABLE

Test 10 CARE AND RESPONSIBILTY.

This is to demonstrate that the handler has a good understanding of the responsibility required to care for their dog and the responsibility with regards to their neighbours and community. The handler will be asked questions by the Evaluator from Section 2 of the non-scheduled document titled Care and Responsibility. The questions should not be phrased in an ambiguous manner and where necessary, examiners should rephrase the question in an attempt to bring out the correct answer from the handler. Note: The handler should be able to give six out of ten correct answers from the Care and Responsibility Document Section 2.