How to Compete in AKC Obedience

Competitive Obedience, one of the older dog sports in the United States, requires a lot of training for both the dog and the handler. The finely-tuned communication used in a successful dog-handler team is a testimony to the strength of the dog-human bond. The American Kennel Club or AKC is one of several venues where you can show your dog in competitive obedience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Get an AKC eligible dog. The AKC is an organization for purebred dogs and dogs competing in AKC events need to be AKC registered. If your dog isn't registered with AKC, review the registration rules on the AKC website to determine eligibility and procedures. (See Resources)
2. Train your dog and yourself. The best approach here is to find a good instructor. Local kennel clubs will offer classes to prepare you and your dog for competition. There are also many private training centers. You can start with the local kennel club, ask the advice of your veterinarian and other "dog people" or just scan the phone book for possibilities.
3. Practice the Novice level exercises. At the Novice level you and your dog will need to perform a heeling pattern both on and off leash, a figure eight heeling exercise, a stand for exam and a recall that includes the front and the finish. Additionally, your dog will have to be able to do a 1-minute sit/stay and a 3-minute down/stay with other dogs in the ring and you about 30 feet away.
4. Add style to your performance. For competitive obedience, you don't want your dog just tagging along through the exercises. Your dog should be animated and engaged throughout. He or she should maintain heel position and keep attention focused on you. In short, the dog should be energetic and enthusiastic, but also under good control.
5. Enter matches before you enter shows. Practice matches give you a chance to practice for the "real thing" without spending a lot of money or getting stressed out. You and your dog should perform well at matches before you enter the show ring.
6. Attend some trials and learn from what you see before you enter a trial yourself. Make sure you understand the rules of the game and ring procedure and conventions before you compete. Watch the experienced handlers and see what you can learn by observing them and their dogs.