Rules
There is no age limit for dogs taking the CGC test.
Because we support dog owners who wish to socialize and introduce their dogs to training as early as possible, dogs are welcome to participate in CGC tests when they are old enough to have completed all vaccinations.
All tests must be performed on leash.
Dogs should wear well-fitting buckle or slip collars (including martingales). They may also wear body harnesses for the CGC test.
Body harnesses should not restrict the movement of the dog.
Special training equipment, such as pinch collars, electronic collars, and head collars are not permitted.
The leash should be made of either leather, fabric/nylon, or biothane.
Retractable leashes may not be used in the CGC test. 
Handlers are not permitted to use food as a reward during the CGC Test.
Harsh corrections are not permitted in the test and are grounds for dismissal.
 
Test items

1. Accepting a friendly stranger 
Evaluator approaches and pretends to shake hands with handler (hands 6- 12” apart). Evaluator does not touch dog.
 
2. Sitting politely for petting 
Evaluator pets dog; dog must show no shyness or resentment.
 
3. Appearance and grooming 
Evaluator inspects dog, combs or brushes lightly, examines ears and each front foot.
 
4. Out for a walk 
Handler takes the dog for a short walk, including right turn, left turn, about turn, and stop.
 
5. Walking through a crowd 
The dog and handler walk close to several people; the dog may show casual interest but not jump up.
 
6. Sit and down on cue/Staying in place 
Handler shows that the dog can do both sit and down, then chooses a position, leaves the dog, and goes to the end of a 20 ft. line, and returns immediately.
 
7. Coming when called 
With the dog still on a 20 ft. line from Test 6, the handler walks out 10 ft. and calls the dog.
 
8. Reaction to another dog 
Two handlers and dogs approach, pretend to shake hands (hands 6-12” apart), exchange pleasantries, then move on.
 
9. Reaction to distractions 
Distractions are presented; the dog may not panic or show aggression.
 
10. Supervised separation 
Handler goes out of sight for 3 minutes. The dog is held on a 6-ft leash by an evaluator