About This Class
Rally is a fun sport that strengthens teamwork, focus, and communication between dog and handler. In Rally, you and your dog move through a course of numbered signs, each asking you to perform a different obedience skill, such as sits, turns, fronts, finishes, and stays. It’s a great way to build real-world obedience skills in an upbeat, rewarding environment.
This class is perfect for teams who want to explore a new sport, sharpen everyday obedience, and deepen their bond through training. Even if you never plan to compete, Rally is an excellent foundation for better loose-leash walking, attention, responsiveness, and teamwork. You and your dog will learn the current AKC Novice Rally exercises while gaining confidence and having fun together.
Prerequisites:
- Dogs should be approximately 1 year of age or older
- Dogs should have a solid understanding of basic obedience, including sit, down, and loose-leash walking
- CGC certification is encouraged, but not required if your dog already has reliable basic skills
- Dogs must be under control and reasonably calm around other dogs
Skills Taught:
- Learn AKC Rally Novice signs and skills
- Turns, front, go around, serpentine
- Proper heel position
- Loose-leash walking and handler focus
- Teamwork skills
- Confidence and attention in a distracting environment
Instructor:
Karen Benson
Class Schedule
Thursdays 6:00 - 7:30pm, July 23, 30; August 6, 13, 20, 27
What to Bring
- High-value treats (soft and irresistible!)
- A flat buckle collar or similar
- 4-6 ft leash (no retractable leashes)
- Water and a bowl
- If you already train with a clicker, feel free to bring it
- Optional: crate bed and/or crate cover (we have some crates available, but you may bring your own if you’d like)
- A positive, patient mindset—this is all about building trust and having fun together
