(See Class Descriptions Below)

The main objective of Rally is to train dogs to behave under any circumstances.  Rally offers both dogs and handlers an experience that is fun and energizing.  Rally was designed with the traditional pet owner in mind, but it can still be very challenging for those who enjoy higher levels of competition.  A Rally course includes 10 to 20 stations, depending on the level.  Scoring is not as rigorous as traditional Obedience.  Communication between handler and dog is encouraged and perfect heel position is not required, but there should be a sense of teamwork between the dog and handler.  There are five levels of Rally (See Below).

Basic Rally Obedience
You will learn to read and work the Rally signs.

Rally Novice Obedience
This is the first level for those just getting started in competition.

• All exercises are performed with the dog on leash.
• There is a requirement of 10-15 stations to complete with no more than five stationary exercises.
• The exercises performed vary from turning 360 degrees to changing paces during the course.
• Exhibitors at this level may clap their hands and pat their legs through the course.

Rally Intermediate Obedience
This is the second level, which includes the Advanced signs.

• All exercises are performed on leash.
• There is a requirement of 12-17 stations with no more than seven stationary exercises.
• Exercises are the same as Rally Advanced, but with no jump exercise.  This exercise is replaced with another sign.

Rally Advanced Obedience
This is the third level, which includes more difficult exercises throughout the course.

• All exercises are performed off-leash.
• There is a requirement of 12-17 stations with no more than seven stationary exercises.
• Exercises include a jump as well as calling your dog to the front of you instead of to a heel position.

Rally Excellent Obedience
This fourth level of AKC Rally is more challenging.

• Exercises are performed off-leash.  You may not clap your hands or pat your leg.  You can use verbal encouragement only.
• There is a requirement of 15-20 stations, with no more than 7 stationary exercises.
• There is also a sit/stay, get your leash after you pass the finish station.  The leash is placed 15 ft from the sit/stay sign.
• The Excellent level exercises include backing up three steps while the dog stays in the heel position, a moving stand while the handler walks around the dog, and dog circling handler.

Rally Masters Obedience
This is the fifth and most challenging level.

• All exercises are performed off-leash and you may use verbal encouragement only.
• The course must include 3 Advanced, 3 Excellent and 4 Master signs, not including the recall over the jump.  The course may also include a cloverleaf, send away to a cone, and circles right, left and around handler.