![]() And pylons can be found in the sporting goods section of many stores. All of the AKC Rally signs can be downloaded and then printed. You can even create a complete mock Rally course at home. Manaton adds, “In addition to the videos, a copy of the AKC Rally Regulations will provide all the information necessary to learn the requirements of each sign.” ![]() Each video will show you how to perform that sign correctly. And although learning 42 signs might seem overwhelming, the AKC has video files for every rally sign to help you through. Manaton says it’s important to become familiar with the requirements of each sign before teaching the dog that skill. There are 42 signs that may be used at the Rally Novice level.” She says, “To begin, the owner should be familiar with how to perform the Novice level signs, such as ‘Right Turn,’ ‘Left Turn,’ ‘Halt – Sit,’ ‘About Turn Right,’ etc. Manaton believes that owners can prepare dogs for Rally at home. Although at most trials Juniors compete alongside adults, there is currently no minimum age requirement for people participating in AKC Companion Events like Rally. In addition, AKC Rally is open to people of all ages so you can get the whole family involved if you wish. So as long as your dog has an AKC number, he can compete when you feel you’re both ready. You might also want to observe a rally event or two to get a feel for how things work during the heat of competition.ĪKC Rally is open to all AKC-recognized breeds and Foundation Stock Service breeds, dogs with an AKC PAL (Purebred Alternative Listing) as well as mixed breeds that have an AKC Canine Partners number. Before signing up, ask if you can observe a class to see if the trainer’s style suits you. ![]() That will give you the benefit of professional guidance. You might consider finding a rally class through a local training club. Once your dog is ready with the basic skills, it’s time to start some rally-specific training. What is Your First Step in Getting Involved in Rally? Then finish with something that the dog already knows to make the lesson end on a positive note.” “During the lessons, always begin with something easy that they may already know and move to something that is a little more challenging. She also suggests keeping your training sessions short and interesting. That enthusiasm will go a long way on the rally course.Īccording to Manaton, the key to training is to be consistent and fair. Positive reinforcement-based training methods are very effective for teaching obedience, and even better, they create a dog who loves to learn. And whether you teach your dog these basic manners at home or in class with a trainer, be sure to reward your dog for the behaviors you want them to repeat. Although none of these skills must be perfect, they will help you get more out of training for Rally. Other helpful skills include your dog being comfortable around other dogs and people as well as coming when called. However, a dog that can walk on a leash, sit, down, and stay will be very successful in training for AKC Rally.” There are 10 skills dogs must be able to perform for the CGC test. “CGC is part of the AKC Family Dog Program, and it provides a great foundation for getting started in dog sports. ![]() Pamela Manaton, Director of Obedience, Rally & Tracking for the American Kennel Club suggests preparing your dog to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test as a prerequisite for Rally. What Should Your Dog Know Before Starting Rally?īecause Rally is based on beginner obedience skills, your dog should know the basics before entering the sport. And best of all, you can easily train at home with little equipment required. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to foster good manners in your dog. And as the class levels progress, so does the difficulty and therefore the training required. The performance is timed, but it’s not about being fast, it’s about accuracy, control, and teamwork. The dog and handler work together and should show a sense of teamwork and enthusiasm throughout the course. Each sign displays a skill to perform such as turns or behaviors like sit, down, or stay. In Rally, a dog and their handler move together through a course made up of 10-20 signs. Do you enjoy teaching your dog commands and tricks? Then the sport of AKC Rally might be for you.
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