Rally is a sport in which the dog and handler
complete a course that has been designed by the rally judge. The judge
tells the handler to begin, and 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 traditional obedience.
The team of dog and handler moves continuously at a brisk, but normal,
pace with the dog under control at the handler's left side. There should
be a sense of teamwork between the dog and handler both during the
numbered exercises and between the exercise signs; however, perfect
"heel position" is not required. Any faults in traditional obedience
that would be evaluated and scored as a one-point deduction or more
should be scored the same in Rally, unless otherwise mentioned in the
Rally Regulations. After the judge's "Forward" order, the team is on its
own to complete the entire sequence of numbered signs correctly.
Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is to be encouraged
and not penalized. Unless otherwise specified in these Regulations,
handlers are permitted to talk, praise, encourage, clap their hands, pat
their legs, or use any verbal means of encouragement. Multiple commands
and/or signals using one or both arms and hands are allowed; the
handler's arms need not be maintained in any particular position at any
time. The handler may not touch the dog or make physical corrections. At
any time during the performance, loud or harsh commands or intimidating
signals will be penalized.
Rally provides a link from the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program to
obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. In
addition, rally promotes fun and enjoyment for dogs at all levels of
competition.
You can read about Rally at
AKC Rally Information |
