Because the AKC and Pitts Pack Leading supports owners who wish to socialize and introduce their dogs to training as early as possible, dogs may participate when they are old enough to have completed all vaccinations.  There is no age limit and the test is open to mixed dogs as well as purebreds. 

Owners who bring young dogs to CGC tests become acquainted with qualified trainers and the test can be used to identify future training goals.

Therapy dogs are required to be 1 year old before testing.

We would like to stress that when a puppy is tested and passes the CGC test, it is important for the owners to have the dog re-tested as an adult. This is because behavior and temperament can change over time.

The AKC recommends responsible owners have dogs re-evaluated every 2 years to demonstrate that training and good manners are maintained.