There are eight 'classes' - levels of competitive obedience - available for entry at Obedience shows. New handlers will start in the basic Introductory, Pre-Beginners and Beginners Classes; as you become more experienced you can qualify for the higher classes right up to Class C, the highest (and most difficult). There is also a Multi-Choice Class open to all dogs and handlers. Each class contains a set of exercises which the judge will ask you and your dog to perform.

The exercises range from heelwork (on and off the lead), to a recall, control exercises such as a one minute sit and a two minute down stay. As you progress through the classes the exercises obviously become more difficult until you reach Class C where your dog will have to perform additional exercises such as a scent discrimination exercise and also a send away and distant control exercise.

Your first step to competitive obedience may be to enter a Companion Dog Show, a club match or a limited obedience show. Alternatively you may choose to enter a Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme Special Pre-beginner Obedience Stakes Class, a Pre-beginner or Beginner Class at a Kennel Club licensed Obedience Show. There are in fact numerous Obedience shows held annually by Kennel Club registered clubs – approximately 270 in all. Details of these shows are published in the Kennel Club’s monthly publication the Kennel Gazette. This is available to order on-line or subscribe to from the Kennel Club Publications Department.

Whatever competition you choose, your dog will be happier for being trained.

Find Out More:

• Obedience tests and exercises
• Obedience levels and classes

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