The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is a combination temperament/good manners test. It was designed by the AKC to emphasize and reward responsible dog ownership. The test is pass/fail. Dogs that pass are recorded in the AKC's CGC archive, and owners are given an opportunity to purchase CGC collar tags that verify their dachsie's status.

The CGC test includes ten different exercises: accepting a friendly stranger; sitting politely for petting; appearance and grooming; out for a walk (walk on a loose leash); walking through a crowd; sit and down on command with a “Stay in place” segment; coming when called; reaction to another dog; reactions to distractions; and supervised separation.

The CGC requires that your dachshund be well socialized with both dogs and humans, so you can begin by polishing up your dachsie's social skills. Also, your dog will need some obedience basics, such as some rudimentary leash manners, as well as the commands for sit, down, stay, and a solid recall. A “Wait” command would come in handy for the supervised separation segment, which involves letting a friendly stranger hold your dog's leash for three minutes while you go out of sight and then come back. Many training clubs, 4-H centers, and shelters offer training classes to prepare you and your dog to take the CGC test.