Rally-Obedience Rules
What is Rally-O ?
Rally Obedience (also known as Rally-O) is a fun, new dog-sport based on
traditional dog Obedience but carried out in a more informal and relaxed style.
Unlike in traditional obedience, handlers are allowed to encourage their dogs
during the course, so you may use as much verbal praise and petting as you like.
It can be a great way to increase your bond with your dog, and to help you and
your dog develop skills that can be applied in everyday life.
As 'Rally' is in its infancy in S.A. it's not easy to see it in action locally, but
this clip illustrates some of its principles and commands:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N42YkVewIhs
Who can do Rally-O?
'Rally' is a wonderful introduction to the sport of Obedience for dogs of all breeds
and ages, and owners of all levels of ability. It provides an opportunity for veteran
dogs to remain active, and a chance for shy or anti-social dogs to get experience in
the ring without worrying about being examined by a judge.
Timid dogs find the soft verbal praise very reassuring and this can build confidence
in an anxious dog. Handlers with disabilities may compete, provided they can move
about the ring without physical assistance (wheelchairs/walking sticks are allowed).
Teamwork !
A team consists of a dog and a handler, moving around a course with the dog in
a 'heel' position. The course is laid out using numbered signs which instruct the
team to go fast or slow, to halt (dog must sit at heel), to make turns and circles,
to reverse direction, to do a sit-stay-recall, to go over a jump, and to follow other
basic obedience exercises
Click here to see Rally-O on You Tube CKC Rally Obedience – Novice
There are three levels in competition:
● Novice ● Advanced ● Excellent
Novice is conducted on-lead. Advanced and Excellent are conducted off-lead.
Advanced and Excellent courses include jumps, and more challenging exercises
such as circling around a toy or a tempting bowl of food! Excellent level includes
an 'Honour' exercise (a long stay, carried out on-lead).
There should be evidence of teamwork between the dog and handler, but perfect
“heel position” is not required. The team starts with 100 points, and the judge
deducts points for mistakes such as a tight leash, crooked sits, or performing an
exercise incorrectly. There is no time limit and the team moves at their own pace,
however at competition level the performance is timed and in the event of a tied
score, the fastest team wins. The judge expects to see the dog demonstrate
willingness and enjoyment. Unlimited communication between handler and dog
is encouraged. Handlers may give multiple commands and signals but may not
physically guide or correct the dog. Food or toys are not permitted in competition.
Courses are designed by the judge and are different in every trial. Handlers receive
a course map from the judge and can walk the course without their dogs prior to
the start of the competition.
Equipment
All you need is a flat (buckle) collar and a comfortable 1.5 or 2 metre lead.
You may also use a harness or head collar during training, or you can use a slip
collar. Please consult your instructor when choosing equipment, as slip collars
or other tools must be fitted and used correctly if they are to be effective.
The Rally-specific course signs and markers are provided by the club, but can
be made from items available in a standard hardware or Sports store if you want
to have your own practice set.
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