RALLY-O

About Rally-O

In Rally-O, you and your dog navigate a pre-set course with directional signs. At each sign, the dog and handler perform certain exercises such as heelwork, turns, sit, down, stand, stay, recall etc.

Unlike Obedience, there is no instruction from the judge or steward to guide you around the course.
Competitors are given time before the competition starts to ‘walk the course’ to familiarise themselves with the order of the signs on the course.

Although you are not allowed to touch your dog while you are on the course, handlers can give verbal commands and/or signals. Praise and encouragement can be used throughout.

There are six (6) Levels of competition in Rally-O. New handlers start at Level 1 and progress through to Level 6. Progression is based on reaching a qualifying score, it is not necessary to win or be placed in a competition in order to progress.

Level 1 competition courses will consist of 10 to 12 signs, as you progress up the levels the courses get more difficult and slightly longer with 15 – 17 signs. Levels 1 and 2 require the dog to work on a loose lead, Levels 3 to 6 require the dog to work off lead.

To compete in Levels 1 and 2 dogs must be six (6) calendar months of age or over on the first day of the competition. Only dogs of twelve (12) months of age or over on the first day of the competition are allowed to compete in Levels 3 to 6 or any special classes which incorporate the jump or similar exercises.

Here are the I.K.C. Rally-O Rules and Regulations
Printed copies of the Rules and Regulations, and A4 signs, are available from the office of the Irish Kennel Club.

I.K.C. Facebook page contains details of upcoming events and seminars – (1) I.K.C. Competitive Rally-O | Facebook