Prerequisites for training

Participant Requirements

Handler

Each handler must start in a beginner obedience class unless certification or demonstration (of the dog) shows that the dog may enter a more advanced class.

Dogs

All dogs are required to have proof of current rabies vaccination before attending a training class. The rabies vaccination is required to be current at all times or the dog will be suspended from class until proof is rendered.

Additional vaccinations recommended to be current include DHPL, Parvo, Corona, and Bordetella.

It is strongly recommended that dogs be at least five (5) months of age before being enrolled in the beginner class.

Class Requirements

Class

Dog should be able to

Beginner Class

This class is appropriate for dogs and handlers with little or no obedience training.
Or for some who want a refresher course in the basics.
Occasionally this class is taught with a clicker

Advanced Classes

Adv. Beginner

Knows the "heel" position
Can walk on a loose leash without pulling
Will 'sit' and 'down' on command
Can 'Sit Stay' (on lead) for a short time
Can 'Down Stay' (on lead) for a short time

Attention and Handling

Knows the "heel" position
Can walk at heel position (on-lead)
Will 'sit' and 'down' on command
Can 'Sit Stay' (on lead) for a short time
Can 'Down Stay' (on lead) for a short time

Novice

Knows the "heel" position
Can walk at heel position (on-lead)
Can stay (handler 5-10 feet away)

Position Time

Down one minute

Sit 30 seconds

Open

Heels on-lead (Novice pattern) and knowledge of footwork
Reliable recall
'Fronts'
Stands for examination
Can perform 'Novice' stays

Position Time

Down three minutes

Sit one minute

Utility

Heels off-lead (Novice pattern)
Recall (as per Novice) with finish
Retrieves on flat
Static retrieve
Can perform stays with handler in sight

Position Time

Down five minutes

Sit two minutes

Rally Skills

The dog should be able to walk on a loose lead at or near Heel position at the handler's left side.
The dog should "Sit" and "Down" reasonably promptly on command or hand signal.
The dog should "Stay" in both the Sit and Down positions for a short time, on lead.

Advanced Rally

The handler should understand AKC Rally signs #1 through 31
The dog should be able to perform the exercises described in Signs # 1 through 31.
The dog should be able to perform a Novice level Rally course or a Novice obedience heeling pattern on a totally loose lead, and be ready to start off lead heeling.