How to Compete in Rally-O With a Dog

The first step on the road to competing in Rally-O is to register your dog with your chosen registry. There are a few reputable dog organizations that sanction and host Rally-O trials and offer titles and awards for competition. Some organizations only register purebred dogs, so do your research before choosing. Mixed breed dogs are eligible to compete in Rally-O, but only through specific registries. The registry that you choose will need specific information from you to register your dog. If your dog is a purebred, the registry will most likely need the registration numbers of the dog’s parents, your name and contact information and information regarding the dog. If you are registering a mixed breed dog, the requirements normally include your information and information about the dog including it’s size and what breeds you think it might be. Be sure to fill out the application completely and return it with the appropriate fees so that your request gets processed as soon as possible.

Training your dog is vital to competing and succeeding in Rally-O. For a dog to be successful in Rally-O, they must know a variety of commands, including sit, down, heel, jump a small hurdle and come, as well as be able to follow a set of simple directions to complete a pattern. As Rally-O becomes more popular, more kennel clubs and private dog trainers are offering classes in Rally-O. If you are unfamiliar with Rally-O, it is a good idea for you to attend classes with your dog so that you can become familiar with how to conduct yourself and how Rally-O works. Your instructor will teach you and your dog the commands and patterns necessary to compete and succeed in Rally-O and can answer any questions or concerns that you might have regarding the sport.

Entering a trial is the next step to competing in Rally-O. You will need to check the listings for trials in your area, and get the correct entry forms for the trials of your choice. You will need to fill out the paperwork completely, including your information, your dog’s information and the classes you wish to compete in. Return the forms promptly with the correct entry fees. A week or two before the trial is actually held, you should receive a conformation letter which will remind you of the classes you entered, the trial date and location and any special instructions. Be sure to read it and note this information. Save the confirmation slip, as you will need to take the it with you.

Arrive at the trial grounds at least two or three hours in advance of your ring time so that you can find a place to sit and crate your dog and give yourself time to check in. You can go ahead and set up your kennel and items and head to the rings to check in with the ring steward. The steward will confirm your entry with you and issue you an armband. The armband will have a number on it that will identify you throughout the trial, so you should put it on right away so as not to lose it. You can ask the ring steward any questions that you might have at this time, and you can also watch a few of the competitors before you go. This observation will give you a chance to see what sort of exercises the judge has set out and how the classes will be run.

Exercise your dog about thirty minutes before your scheduled ring time. Allow your dog a chance to use the potty, stretch her legs and relax. You can also practice a few exercises with your dog at this time to keep her sharp and prepare you both for the ring. Report to your ring when you are finished and wait for your number to be called.

Enter the ring as soon as the steward announces your number and listen to the judge’s instructions. If there are any more questions you have, ask before you begin your routine. Follow the directions on the cards and perform all of the actions listed to the best of your ability. If you make a mistake, continue onto the next exercise. Complete the pattern as directed, and wait for the judge’s instructions. The judge will most likely excuse you from the ring upon completion of your pattern, so exit promptly.

After you are finished with your exercise, you can offer your dog a drink or a few treats. Reward him for a job well done, as competition is supposed to be fun and encouraging. Upon completion of the class by all of the competitors, the judge will tally the scores and prepare the awards. Rally-O is like many other dog sports, in which legs are earned towards Rally-O titles. Most organizations require that your dog earn at least three qualifying scores at each level to earn a title. If your dog has earned a leg or an award, it will be presented once the judge is finished scoring the competitors. Awards presentations are always fun and exciting, and with a little hard work and determination, you and your dog can look forward to earning many titles in Rally-O.