This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The Evaluator walks up to the dog and handler, greets the handler in a friendly manner, and ignores the dog. The test begins with the dog seated at the handler's side. The Evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries.
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while out with its handler. With the dog sitting at the handler's side, the Evaluator approaches and asks, "May I pet your dog?" The Evaluator then pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk to the dog throughout the exercise.
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined, and will permit a stranger (such as a veterinarian or groomer) to do so. The Evaluator inspects the dog, then combs or brushes the dog and lightly examines the ears and each front foot.
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. The course includes a right turn, left turn, about turn, with at least one stop in between and one at the end. The handler may talk to the dog and give praise throughout.
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to at least three people.
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's commands to sit and down, and will remain in place (stay). The dog's leash is replaced with a 20-foot line. The handler tells the dog to stay, walks to the end of the line, turns and returns to the dog.
The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command. The handler may touch the dog to offer gentle guidance but may not use excessive force.
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler walks 10 feet from the dog, turns to face the dog, and calls the dog. The handler may use encouragement and body language to get the dog to come.
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from about 15 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, then continue on.
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident when faced with common distracting situations. The Evaluator selects two distractions -- one sound and one visual preferred. Examples include:
A person using crutches, wheelchair, or walker (5 ft away). Sudden opening or closing of a door. Dropping a pan or folded chair (no closer than 5 ft). A jogger running in front of the dog. A person pushing a cart passing no closer than 5 ft. A person on a bike no closer than 10 ft.
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left in the presence of a trusted person and will maintain its training and good manners. The handler leaves the dog with the Evaluator and goes out of sight for three minutes.
The Evaluator may talk to and pet the dog but should refrain from giving excessive attention or playing with the dog. The dog does not have to stay in position.
The BGC Test is Meant to Be Fun
The goal is to celebrate well-trained, well-socialized American Bulldogs. If your dog doesn't pass the first time, that's OK -- it just means there's an area to work on. Come back and try again.