How to Prepare a Brittany for the Canine Good Citizen Test
The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is an excellent goal for Brittanys, whose bright, eager temperament makes them natural learners. However, their exceptional energy level (5/5) and bird-focused recall instincts present unique challenges. Brittanys thrive on structure and purpose, so training for CGC certification channels their hyperactivity into disciplined behavior. This guide focuses on the test's ten exercises while addressing breed-specific hurdles: managing their high-drive tendencies, preventing destructive boredom during training breaks, and building impulse control around distractions. With consistent positive reinforcement and adequate daily exercise (90+ minutes), your Brittany's friendly, sensitive nature will shine through in reliable, composed behavior. Success requires patience with their recall sensitivity and celebrating small wins.
Step-by-step
- 1
Master Controlled Movement and Leash Manners
Brittanys are energetic and can become overexcited on-leash. Start with 15-minute sessions on a loose leash, rewarding calm walking frequently. Teach 'Heel' with high-value treats, breaking sessions into short bursts to prevent frustration and maintain focus. A tired Brittany walks better, so ensure your 90-minute daily exercise happens before training.
- 2
Build Rock-Solid 'Sit,' 'Down,' and 'Stay'
These foundational exercises require impulse control that Brittanys must develop gradually. Use short, high-energy training games to keep your bright dog engaged; reward heavily and rotate treats to prevent boredom. Build stay duration in small increments (5 seconds → 30 seconds) in low-distraction environments first, then introduce mild distractions like bird sounds.
- 3
Practice Recall Under Mild Distractions
Brittanys have strong prey drive and may struggle with recall around birds or small animals. Train 'Come' in a fenced yard with low-level distractions first, using their favorite toy or high-value treats as motivation. Gradually introduce controlled distractions (bird calls, rustling) while building confidence. Never practice recall with live birds until command reliability is 95%+.
- 4
Condition Calmness During Meeting Friendly Strangers
Brittanys are naturally friendly but their enthusiasm can feel overwhelming. Teach 'Sit' before greeting; reward calm sitting, not jumping. Ask friends to ignore jumping and only reward when your dog sits. Practice this weekly with different people to generalize the behavior and manage their eager-to-please nature.
- 5
Train 'Leave It' and Impulse Control Around Food
Destructive boredom often stems from Brittanys eating forbidden items. Teach 'Leave It' with high-value treats, rewarding the choice not to grab. Practice daily in short sessions, then proof in real-world scenarios (dropped food on walks). This prevents test failures and reduces anxiety-driven chewing.
- 6
Practice Test Conditions and Socialization
Book a mock test with a local trainer or CGC evaluator 2–3 weeks before the real exam. Practice in unfamiliar environments with new people and dogs to reduce novelty stress. Brittanys are sensitive, so calm, predictable training builds confidence. End every session with success to maintain their eager attitude.
Pro tips
- Schedule CGC training after your Brittany's main exercise block (run, fetch) to harness their natural focus and prevent hyperactivity from derailing sessions.
- Use a long line (20–30 feet) during distraction training to safely manage prey drive while building reliable recall, preventing failure and frustration.
- Rotate high-value rewards (special treats, toys, praise) during training to keep your intelligent Brittany engaged and prevent boredom—destructive boredom is their kryptonite.
Frequently asked questions
My Brittany gets distracted by birds during outdoor training. How do I keep focus on exercises?+
Start all training indoors or in enclosed yards away from wildlife. Once commands are solid (80%+ compliance), gradually introduce controlled distractions like bird sounds or movement in the distance. Use high-value rewards (special treats or toys) to compete with prey drive. Never train when birds are actively present until recall is bulletproof.
How much exercise should my Brittany get before CGC training?+
Aim for 90+ minutes daily: a 30–45 minute run or fetch, plus a walk and mental enrichment (training, puzzle toys). A well-exercised Brittany is focused and less hyperactive during training. Train after exercise, not before, so excess energy doesn't sabotage impulse control.
My Brittany is sensitive and shuts down when corrected. How do I train effectively?+
Use only positive reinforcement: rewards, praise, and play. Brittanys respond poorly to harsh corrections and may become anxious. If they make a mistake, simply don't reward; redirect to the correct behavior and reward heavily. Keep sessions upbeat and short (10–15 minutes) to maintain confidence.
Can my Brittany pass the CGC test if he has occasional recall lapses around distractions?+
No. The CGC test requires reliable obedience in realistic settings. Your Brittany must show 90%+ compliance before testing. If recall falters, delay the exam and train intensively in varied environments. Their trainability (4/5) makes this achievable with consistent practice.