So you’ve completed an obedience class or two, but your dog still needs some help learning how to behave/perform around distractions (like other dogs, strangers, etc). Or maybe you and your dog just want to continue to enjoy working together in a class environment. Well, then Rally Obedience may be for YOU!
Rally Obedience is a dog sport that involves performing a variety of obedience behaviors on a course designed by a judge. It’s a great way to help perfect your dog’s focus amid distractions, perfect on (and off!) leash walking, and develop obedience skills—all while having loads of fun together. If you really enjoy Rally, there are competitions you can enter to show off your stuff and even win some prizes! But the skills you develop in Rally class are practical as well, since you can use them on your daily walks with your dog.
To learn more about AKC Rally, click here.
When the AKC updated Rally Obedience signs and titling opportunities, new signs were added to the current levels, and two new levels were added. The first is “Intermediate,” which comes between Novice and Advanced. It uses the same course as Advanced (except for the jump), but it is conducted on leash. The second is “Masters,” which comes after Excellent and includes new, more difficult signs.
For a complete copy of all signs, with descriptions click here: Rally Signs with Descriptions
For a complete set of regulation, full-sized signs, go here: RALLY_SIGN_SET
Rally Obedience: This class is for dog/handler teams who have developed most Intermediate obedience skills and want to continue working together! Teams are asked to follow a numbered course of ten to fifteen stations requiring simple obedience skills, such as sits and downs. This class will also introduce the Advanced and Excellent level maneuvers to those who are ready to move on to the next levels, which include jumping and require dogs to work with handlers off leash. Because Rally is a competitive sport, you and your dog can enter events and even earn AKC Rally Obedience titles! Intermediate Obedience skills suggested prerequisite. (6 weeks, $170) Next class starts Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 pm
