Rally
is a sport in which the dog and handler complete a course that has been
designed by the Rally judge. Prior to competition, the judge may give
instructions to the handlers concerning rally regulations or the course
layout. Everyone entered will then get a chance to walk the course
without their dogs to become familiar with the signs.
When the competition begins, the judge will tell the handler to begin. At this time the dog and handler proceed at their own pace through a course of designated stations (10–20 depending on the level). Each of these stations has a sign providing instructions regarding the next skill that is to be performed. Scoring is not as rigorous as formal obedience.
The team of dog and handler move continuously with
the dog under control at the handler’s left side, however perfect “heel
position” is not required. There should be a sense of teamwork between
the dog and handler both during the numbered exercises and between the
exercise signs. They perform the
exercises
indicated by a numbered sign at each station. After the judge’s
“Forward” order, the team is on its own to complete the entire sequence
correctly. Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is to be
encouraged and not penalized. Unless otherwise specified, handlers are
permitted to talk, praise, clap their hands, pat their legs, or use any
verbal means of encouragement. Handlers may not touch their dog or make
physical corrections. At anytime during the performance, loud or harsh
commands or intimidating signals will be penalized. (From AKC
Regulations)
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After everyone has a chance to compete, the judge calls everyone back into the ring that qualified. To qualify, you must have a score of 70 or better. The placements are then announced and the best four scores are recognized with placement ribbons. If there is a tie score, the best course time is used to determine placement. |
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Rally is great for developing stronger obedience skills while gaining more control of your dog. It also provides a stepping stone from basic obedience to agility and formal obedience. For those already performing agility, Rally will strengthen current skills and develop a better working relationship between the handler and dog which is so necessary in agility.
These are a few of the signs you will see on the RALLY course:
Schedule: Check the schedule page for class times and dates
Location: To be announced
Price: $75 for six weeks of one hour classes
