About Dog Obedience
What is Dog Obedience?
Dog obedience is the canine equivalent of dressage. A handler must direct his dog in a stylised and defined manner according to instructions given by a judge and steward, and is scored for accuracy. Examples of predetermined tests at competition level include: heelwork, commanding the dog to take specific positions (sit, down, stand), sending the dog away, retrieving articles and scent cloths and timed stay exercises. Dogs of any breed can participate.
Competitions
Official obedience competitions are held across the country, while popular unofficial shows also attract a dedicated following.
Types of obedience competition include:
Open Kennel Club Shows Competitions held under Kennel Club regulations where the number of entrants is not limited.
Limited Kennel Club Shows Competitions held under Kennel Club regulations where the number of entrants is limited to a specified number.
Exemption/Companion Dog Shows Informal competitions held under Kennel Club licence.
Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme
The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme (KCGCDS) is the largest dog training scheme in the UK. Its aim is to promote responsible dog ownership and in turn, enhance our relationship with our pets and to make the community aware of the benefits associated with dog ownership. For more information about the scheme, see the KCGCDS section of the Kennel Club's website.
At Letchworth DTC, we offer the opportunity to take Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme awards. This is offered as part of our Monday evening Puppy and Pet Training classes. Tests for these awards are conducted by an external examiner, usually twice a year, according to demand. Several of our handlers have progressed to earn the Gold Award.
The KCGCDS awards are:
Puppy Foundation Assessment Lays down a foundation for a puppy's training and socialisation. Offered in our Puppy Training class.
Bronze Award Aims to provide the handlers with a basic knowledge of understanding and training their canine companion. Offered in our Basic Pet Training class.
Silver Award Aims to build upon the skills learned in the Bronze Award whilst increasing the level of difficulty. Offered in our Advanced Pet Training class.
Gold Award Aims to build upon the skills learned in the Silver Award and develops more advanced training skills of the dog and the handler. Offered in our Advanced Pet Training class.
Rally Obedience
Rally Obedience (or Rally O) has been introduced recently to Britain from the USA. A handler must direct his dog around a course with numbered signs indicating obedience exercises that must be performed at a brisk pace without direction from a judge or steward. Dogs of any breed can participate. More information about Rally Obedience can be found on the Association of Pet Dog Trainers' website.
Letchworth DTC offer Rally Obedience training as part of the Advanced Pet Training class on Monday evenings.
Training
Whether you would like to train your dog to take part in competitions (whether formal or informal) or for general pet training, our instructors can give you guidance using motivational, reward-based training methods. For more information on training, see the Obedience Training section.
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