Rally
How it works:
AKC Rally is a dog sport that combines elements of obedience training with agility. It's a fun and interactive way for dogs and their handlers to bond while working together through a course of designated exercises. One of the appealing aspects of AKC Rally is that it's less formal than traditional obedience competitions. The emphasis is on teamwork, communication, and demonstrating the dog's ability to perform basic obedience skills in a variety of situations. It's a great way for dogs and their owners to have fun while building a strong bond and improving obedience skills.
The ins and outs
- Course Design: A Rally course is set up with various stations or signs, each indicating a different exercise or task.The exercises at each station can include things like sits, downs, stays, turns, jumps, and more. The complexity of the exercises can vary depending on the level of competition.
- Handler-Dog Team: A handler and their dog work as a team to navigate through the course. The handler is allowed to talk to their dog, use hand signals, and encourage them throughout the course.
- Scoring: The judge scores the team based on their performance. Points are deducted for mistakes or incomplete exercises.
- Levels of Competition: AKC Rally has different levels of competition, from Novice to Master. As the dog progresses through the levels and accumulates qualifying scores they earn titles.
Eligibility:
To compete in AKC Rally trials, dogs must meet certain eligibility requirements:
1. Registration with the AKC: Dogs must be registered or listed with the American Kennel Club (AKC) or have an AKC PAL (Purebred Alternative Listing) number or AKC Canine Partners number. This ensures that the dog's lineage and identity are verified by the AKC.
2. Minimum Age: Dogs must be at least 6 months old to compete in AKC Rally trials.
3. Health Requirements: Dogs must be in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations as required by the AKC and the host club of the obedience trial. Blind dogs are not eligible to participate. A dog cannot compete with tape, bandages, or any other attachment for medical purposes.
4. Spaying/Neutering: Spayed and neutered dogs are eligible to compete in AKC rally trials. Intact dogs are also allowed to compete, but females in season are not.
6. Handler's Eligibility: Handlers must also meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being a member of the AKC and adhering to the AKC's rules and regulations for participation in obedience trials.
7. Entry and Fees: Handlers must submit entry forms and pay entry fees to participate in AKC rally trials. These fees may vary depending on the host club and the level of competition.
