Rally is AKC’s newest dog sport and it is sweeping the nation. It was created to promote a positive relationship between the dog and its owner. Rally is also the ultimate spectator sport. It is easy for spectators to understand and enjoy watching, even if they have never been to a dog show. Every station a dog and handler must pass by has a sign providing instructions regarding the skill that is to be performed.
Rally was designed with the average pet dog owner in mind, as a way to introduce them into the world of dog sports and provides a link from the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. It also provides AKC with a new avenue to highlight the importance and benefits of training your dog.
Emphasis is on fun and excitement for the dog and handler by providing a more “natural” approach to the performance. Rally is made up of a series of colored signs laid out in a specific format designed by the judge. Each dog and handler is judged on the execution of a single, continuous performance of numbered exercises on a course, uninterrupted by orders from the judge. Perfect heel position is not required but handlers must maintain a loose leash at all times.
Animation and enthusiasm throughout the performance is encouraged. Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is permitted. Handlers are allowed to talk, praise, encourage, clap their hands, pat their legs, or use any verbal means of encouragement, and multiple commands and/or signals using one or both arms and hands.
The initial level of involvement is very promising. The AKC already has 658 approved rally trials in 2005. Through the end of February there have been 8,912 dogs entered in this new sport. There are 58 approved trials for the month of March, 94 in April and an amazing 116 in May!
These figures are truly outstanding, particularly when comparing the first year of agility where we had 23 trials and 2,000 entries. Rally is truly a sport for anyone.
It is a positive and rewarding new event for dogs and their owners and we look forward to seeing it grow.
Sincerely,
Ron Menaker
Chairman