Merrimac Dog Training Club

This is an Advanced Basic dog training class that covers all required elements of the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), AKC Community Canine (CGC-A) evaluations, as well as the most common requirements for a Therapy Dog evaluation. For more information on these tests, see the links below.

Required Equipment: Well-fitting buckle or slip collar (including martingales) made of leather or fabric. (Body harness is OK for training and CGC test.) A 4-6 foot long leash made of leather or fabric (NO retractable leashes are permitted!). A 20 foot long line leash made of fabric or synthetic material. 

Recommended: " Canine Good Citizen, The Official AKC Guide, 2nd Edition", by Mary R. Burch, c. 2021. Available in paperback. 

NOTE: If this is your dog's first time attending MDTC classes,  owners/handlers are required to bring the dog's current vaccination records to the first class. All dogs MUST have received at least the 2nd round of DHPP (distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, and parvovirus) before attend the first class. Rabies vaccination is MANDATORY for all puppies 16 weeks or older per Virginia State Law. Leptospirosis (Lepto), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), and Giardia vaccinations are not required to attend class. Please consult your licensed Veterinarian for additional questions or concerns.

Prerequisites: Dogs must be able to execute all commands (sit, down, come, stay, and heel on leash) at the Intermediate level. The CGC Basic testing at the end of this class is included and optional.  The CGC Basic test will be conducted 1-2 wks after the last day of class.  CGC-A will not be tested.

For additional information, enjoy the videos listed below:

• AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC): https://youtu.be/W77DYbZTm2E
• AKC Community Canine (CGC-A): https://youtu.be/_iiCxAeXHc8
• AKC Therapy Dog Program / Recognized Certifying Agencies:  https://www.akc.org/sports/title-recognition-program/therapy-dog-program/therapy-dog-organizations/