OBEDIENCE:

Obedience training is the foundation upon which all canine activities are based, whether conformation, agility, tracking, search & rescue, service dogs, fieldwork, etc.

In 1933, when AKC Obedience competition began, the concept behind obedience training was is to develop a very close working relationship between human beings and dogs, while demonstrating the usefulness and enthusiasm of dogs. This concept remains as important today as it was when the program was developed.

There are several levels of obedience, such as the long-standing classes of Novice (CD, Open (CDX) and Utility (UD). A higher level of competition was added in recent years, which includes Utility Excellent (UDX) and Obedience Trial Champion (OTCH). The newest title is to be awarded to the winning dog at the National Obedience Invitational. The dog that wins his AKC National Obedience Invitational becomes the National Obedience Champion for the year. This is the only dog that can carry that distinction.

AKC Obedience Trials were developed to foster training, as well as, to demonstrate dogs' willingness, capabilities and enjoyment of working with and very closely with humans.

Obedience Trials demonstrate the usefulness of the purebred dog as a human companion and showcase dogs that have been trained and conditioned to properly behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs.

There are three levels of obedience training, each with their own prescribed sets of
exercises:

Novice Class -This is the beginner level
Open Class -This is the intermediate level
Utility Class -This is the advanced level

Novice: The first level, Novice, results in your dog earning a Companion Dog (CD) title. The title actually describes what is expected of your dog: demonstrating the skills required of a good canine companion. He will have to heel both on and off leash at different speeds, come when called, stay (still and quietly!) with a group of other dogs when told and stand for a simple physical exam.

Open: The second level, Open, results in your dog earning a Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) title. He must do many of the same exercises as in Novice, but off-leash and for longer periods. Additionally, there are jumping and retrieving tasks.

Utility: The final level results in a Utility Dog (UD) title. These are the cream of the crop. In addition to more difficult exercises, the dog also must perform scent discrimination tasks.

OTCH and UDX: The best of the best can go on for more titles. Utility Dogs that continue to compete and earn legs at 10 shows become Utility Dog Excellent (UDX). Utility Dogs that are ranked 1st or 2nd in Open B or Utility classes can earn points toward an Obedience Trial Champion (OTCH) title.

CONTINUED

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