Competitive dog obedience is a precision sport where dog and handler perform a standardized series of exercises that are evaluated and scored by a judge. According to the AKC, "The basic objective of obedience trials... is to recognize dogs that have been trained to behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs, in a manner that will reflect credit on the sport of obedience at all times and under all conditions." Training a dog for competition obedience is an ongoing process. One of the more challenging aspects of showing at the upper levels in obedience is maintaining consistency in performance while keeping your dog actively interested in doing his best. AKC began offering obedience trials in the mid-1930s.
A good obedience foundation is desirable for many other things you will do with your dog, from being a good house dog to being a a good patient at the vet to being able to work around other dogs in other sports. Continued training to prepare for competition increases the dog's confidence and reliability in responding to commands, both in the ring and elsewhere. Obedience and rally trials give handler and dog a chance to work as a highly tuned team, and can be a fun and challenging hobby.
Obedience links
AKC (American Kennel Club) Obedience
UKC (United Kennel Club) Obedience
Broad Jump:
Articles:
The "re-call"
