How to Prepare a Bloodhound for the Canine Good Citizen Test
Bloodhounds are exceptional scent-tracking dogs with gentle, affectionate temperaments—but their stubborn nature and single-minded focus on smells make CGC certification uniquely challenging for the breed. With a trainability score of just 2/5, Bloodhounds require patient, consistent positive reinforcement rather than harsh corrections. Their moderate 3/5 energy level means they're not hyperactive, but their powerful scent drive can derail attention-based exercises. Successfully preparing your Bloodhound for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test means redirecting their natural instincts, building impulse control around interesting smells, and establishing yourself as a reward source more compelling than their nose. This guide breaks down the ten CGC skills into Bloodhound-friendly training steps you can practice at home, with realistic strategies for managing their unique challenges.
Step-by-step
- 1
Master sit, down, and stay with high-value rewards
Bloodhounds respond poorly to food-free obedience, so use smelly, high-value treats (liver, cheese, chicken) during foundation training. Work in distraction-free environments first, then gradually add mild scent distractions. Practice 10–15 minute sessions five times weekly to overcome their stubborn streak.
- 2
Build reliable recall using scent-positive motivation
Recall failure is a known Bloodhound challenge—their nose overrides voice commands. Train recall by running away from your dog, using excited praise, and rewarding heavily with treats or toys. Practice in confined spaces (fenced yard) before open areas, and always make returning to you more rewarding than pursuing scents.
- 3
Manage leash walking and polite greeting behaviors
Bloodhounds pull heavily toward scents during walks. Train loose-leash walking by rewarding moments of slack leash with treats; stop moving when they pull. Practice greeting strangers calmly by asking your dog to sit before hellos, rewarding calm behavior. Their drooling is normal—have cloths ready for the evaluator.
- 4
Condition acceptance of handling and grooming touches
CGC requires sitting calmly for an evaluator's friendly touch and basic grooming. Handle your Bloodhound's ears, paws, and body daily with treats and praise. Their stubborn nature means they may resist—never force it, but reward all acceptance generously to build positive associations.
- 5
Practice calm behavior around distractions and other dogs
Bloodhounds have moderate barking tendencies (3/5) but can fixate on scents near other dogs. Socialize weekly at parks or training classes, rewarding calm, neutral behavior around unfamiliar dogs and people. Increase exercise to the recommended 75 minutes daily—a tired Bloodhound is calmer and more trainable.
- 6
Rehearse the full CGC test in realistic settings
Run through all ten CGC exercises in sequence in parks or quiet public spaces where your dog encounters mild distractions. Use a helper to simulate the evaluator. Practice 2–3 times weekly for 4 weeks before testing. Focus on consistency—Bloodhounds need repetition to internalize rules.
Pro tips
- Use scent-based rewards (liver treats, smelly cheese) instead of kibble—Bloodhounds are unmotivated by bland treats, and a high-value reward source is essential for overcoming their stubborn streak and scent obsession.
- Schedule training sessions right after exercise. The recommended 75 minutes of daily activity will tire your Bloodhound's body and mind, making him more focused and less likely to fixate on scents during work.
- Pair a release word like 'Go sniff!' with designated break times so your Bloodhound learns when it's appropriate to use his nose—this gives structure to his natural drive and makes impulse control easier during actual CGC exercises.
Frequently asked questions
My Bloodhound's nose pulls him away during training. How do I compete with his scent drive?+
You can't eliminate his scent drive, but you can redirect it. Use extremely high-value rewards (smelly treats, play with a favorite toy) that he values more than investigating smells. Train when his nose is less active (early morning, after the recommended 75 minutes of exercise). Break sessions into very short blocks (5–10 minutes) to maintain focus.
Is recall training realistic for a Bloodhound?+
Yes, but it requires patient, consistent practice over weeks. Bloodhounds have a trainability of 2/5, so recall won't be automatic—but using prey-drive games (running away, exciting recalls) and jackpot rewards works well. Always train in secure areas and don't rely on recall near active scent sources during the CGC test itself.
My Bloodhound drools constantly. Will this affect his CGC score?+
No. Drooling is a breed standard for Bloodhounds and evaluators expect it. Simply keep cloths handy during the test and wipe as needed. The evaluator will not dock points for normal breed characteristics.
How often should I train with my Bloodhound before the CGC test?+
Train 4–5 times per week in 10–15 minute sessions, plus fulfill the 75 minutes of daily exercise. Bloodhounds require more repetition than highly trainable breeds due to their stubborn nature. Plan for 8–12 weeks of consistent training before testing. Shorter, frequent sessions work better than long sessions for this breed.