Join the Canine Good Citizen Programme at Smart Dog Behaviour and Training School
A well-trained dog is not simply a dog that can sit or stay. A truly well-mannered dog can remain calm, responsive and under control while navigating everyday life with its owner.
The Canine Good Citizen programme—commonly known as CGC—is designed to help owners develop exactly these skills.
The programme provides practical training for real-life situations, helping dogs become calm, confident and responsible members of their families and communities. It is suitable for family pets, young dogs, older dogs and handlers who would like to take their training to a recognised standard.
What Will Your Dog Learn?
During the programme, you and your dog will work on important everyday skills, including:
- Walking calmly on a loose lead
- Sitting, lying down and remaining in position
- Coming when called
- Remaining under control around other dogs
- Greeting people politely
- Accepting appropriate handling and grooming
- Staying calm around distractions
- Developing confidence in public environments
- Strengthening communication between dog and handler
- Responsible dog ownership and care
The focus is not on creating a competition obedience dog. It is about developing a dog that is safe, manageable and enjoyable to live with.
Progress Through the CGC Levels
The KUSA Canine Good Citizen programme includes Puppy, Bronze, Silver and Gold assessments. Each level progressively develops the dog and handler’s skills, reliability and ability to work around everyday distractions.
🐾 CGC Puppy
A positive introduction to early training, socialisation, handling and responsible puppy ownership.
🥉 CGC Bronze
Builds the essential foundations of good manners, basic obedience and control.
🥈 CGC Silver
Develops greater reliability, patience and control around distractions.
🥇 CGC Gold
The advanced level, demonstrating a high standard of responsible handling, practical obedience and dependable behaviour.
The Kennel Union of Southern Africa provides the official programme information, assessment booklets and regulations for each level of the KUSA Canine Good Citizen programme.
More Than a Certificate
Passing a CGC assessment is a wonderful achievement, but the true value of the programme is found in everyday life.
Training can help make walks more enjoyable, visits less stressful and interactions with people and other dogs more manageable. It also gives owners the skills and confidence to guide their dogs clearly and responsibly.
Most importantly, it strengthens the relationship between you and your dog.
Is the Programme Right for Your Dog?
You do not need a “perfect” dog to begin.
Your dog may be young, excitable, easily distracted or simply in need of a refresher. The programme gives you a structured goal and professional guidance while allowing you to progress with your dog.
Both purebred and mixed-breed dogs are welcome.
Train With Smart Dog Behaviour and Training School
With more than 25 years of dog-training experience, Smart Dog Behaviour and Training School offers practical, supportive instruction focused on building reliable skills for the real world.
Our goal is to help you understand your dog, improve your handling and build behaviours that will serve you both long after the course has ended.
Give your dog the opportunity to become a recognised Canine Good Citizen.
📍 Kloof, KwaZulu-Natal
📞 Phone or WhatsApp: 081 270 4672
Contact us today to enquire about the next CGC programme and reserve your place.