WHAT IS RALLY-O

What is Rally-O

Rally-O is short for Rally-Obedience, a type of dog obedience that is different to the traditional obedience competition. In Rally-O, the dog and handler complete a course consisting of exercise stations set up by the judge. Teamwork is the main focus. Throughout the course, the handler can talk and touch the dog to encourage and praise it.

There are a number of different exercises that are part of Rally-O and from which the judge chooses when designing the course. Elements of the exercises are:

  • heeling at normal, fast, slow pace
  • left and right turns
  • sit, down/drop, stand
  • weaving around cones
  • jumps
  • stays

Each dog/handler team starts with 100 points. Points are deducted if exercises are not done correctly or if teamwork is lacking. A score of 70 or better is required to pass the course and get a qualifying certificate. While the course is timed, this only matters if there are 2 or more teams tied on points, in which case the time is used to decide the final placings.

There are four different competition levels in Rally-O.

Rally Novice

This is the entry level. The dog is on lead and there are between 10 and 15 exercise stations. Three qualifications are required to gain the Rally Novice title and move up to the next level. 

Rally Advanced

This is the 2nd level. The dog is off lead and there are between 12 and 17 exercise stations. Three qualifications are required to gain the Rally Advanced title and move up to the next level.

Rally Excellent

This is the 3rd level. The dog is off lead and there are between 15 and 20 exercise stations. Three qualifications are required to gain the Rally Excellent title and move up to the next level.

Rally Advanced Excellent

This is the highest level. The dog/handler team has to complete both a Rally Advanced and Rally Excellent course at the same trial. A qualification is only awarded if both courses have been completed successfully. Ten qualifications are required to gain the Rally Advanced Excellent title.

This year the Club will for the first time award perpetual Rally-O trophies for all four competition levels. The trophies will be presented at Xmas Fun Day towards the end of the year.

If you would like to learn more about Rally-O, please come and see us at the Registration Desk on Sundays. It is a fun activity that builds on the skills and commands taught in the regular classes each week. 

Ilka Kolodziej

Committee Member