Rally is a form of obedience in which the dog and handler proceed at their own pace through a course of designated stations. The team of dog and handler moves continuously at a brisk pace with the dog under control at the handler’s left side. Teamwork is the key between the dog and handler both during the test. After the judge’s “Forward” order, the team is on its own to complete the entire sequence of numbered signs correctly.
Unlike Obedience, communication from the handler to the dog is encouraged and not penalized. Rally provides a steppingstone from the AKC Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. Rally is fun and enjoyed by handler and dog at all levels of competition.