Stages of Dog Obedience

Dog obedience classes and trials are available to suit any age, breed or competency level of the pet. From basic and puppy classes to advanced competitions, dog owners can customize the level of training and participation they desire. Obedience work helps dogs and owners develop a strong bond, encourages appropriate behavior and is mentally enriching for dogs and trainers.

  1. Basic

    • Puppies can learn basic commands and socialization skills.

      Basic obedience is the primary stage of obedience training. At this level, dogs learn simple behaviors such as Sit, Down and Stay. Owners learn how to train the dog and the pairs practice communication techniques. Puppy obedience is often a stage of basic obedience that caters specifically to young dogs. These classes also focus on socializing puppies with new places, faces and other dogs.

    Intermediate

    • Dogs learn more advanced tricks and behaviors in intermediate level classes.

      Intermediate obedience levels include "polishing" behaviors learned in beginner obedience, as well as increasing the duration of behaviors such as a "Stay." These classes may include trick training and recalls, or how to come from a distance. Intermediate obedience courses are tailored by specific trainers and can often be customized for specific dogs, especially those undergoing private training.

    Advanced

    • This stage of obedience is for dogs that have developed strong competency in basic obedience behaviors. Advanced courses may focus on training specific and challenging tricks, chains of behaviors or begin training for competitive dog obedience work.

    Competitive

    • Show dogs need specialized obedience training based on how to compete.

      Many types and stages of competitive obedience exist. Rally obedience consists of dogs and trainers completing a range of behaviors on a course emphasizing heeling and communication. Agility events involve a series of jumps and obstacles. Other stages of competitive obedience include nose work trials, dock jumping, bird dog training and retrieval, herding and lure coursing.