Rally is a sport in which the dog and handler complete a course that has been designed by the rally judge. The judge
tells the handler to begin, and the dog and handler proceed at their own pace through a course of designated stations (10
- 20, depending on the level). Each of these stations has a sign providing instructions regarding the next skill that is to
be performed. Scoring is not as rigorous as traditional obedience.
The team of dog and handler moves continuously
at a brisk, but normal, pace with the dog under control at the handler's left side. There should be a sense of teamwork between
the dog and handler both during the numbered exercises and between the exercise signs; however, perfect "heel position" is
not required. Any faults in traditional obedience that would be evaluated and scored as a one-point deduction or more should
be scored the same in Rally, unless otherwise mentioned in the Rally Regulations. After the judge's "Forward" order, the team
is on its own to complete the entire sequence of numbered signs correctly.
Unlimited communication from the handler
to the dog is to be encouraged and not penalized. Unless otherwise specified in these Regulations, handlers are permitted
to talk, praise, encourage, clap their hands, pat their legs, or use any verbal means of encouragement. Multiple commands
and/or signals using one or both arms and hands are allowed; the handler's arms need not be maintained in any particular position
at any time. The handler may not touch the dog or make physical corrections. At any time during the performance, loud or harsh
commands or intimidating signals will be penalized.
Rally provides a link from the Canine Good CitizenŽ (CGC) program
to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. In addition, rally promotes fun and enjoyment for dogs at
all levels of competition.
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