Although many kinds of dog training are focused on an obedient dog, when we talk about Dog Obedience, we’re talking about the competitive sport!
Dog Obedience as a dog sport is focused on testing a dog’s enthusiasm, precision, and control when directed to accurately complete a set of challenges. It requires a very strong relationship between dog and handler!
Dog Obedience is a component of several other dog sports as well, particularly IGP/IPO and Working Trials.
The average dog training class is usually focused on training the important day-to-day life skills we need to live happily and safely with our dogs. Dog Obedience is the next level up; it’s about training more precise behaviours, developing a deeper relationship with your dog, and channeling your dog’s enthusiasm whilst offering them mental stimulation. It’s often called the dressage of dog sports! Dog Obedience is incredibly rewarding to train and participate in, for both dogs and handlers.
At the most basic competition level, a dog should be able to complete a Heelwork pattern, Retrieve an article, and complete a Recall. At each level, these basics become more complex, and additional exercises for Scent Discrimination, Sendaways, and Distance Control are added. Training is geared toward teaching your dog a well-rounded set of versatile skills!
Any kind of dog can participate in competitive obedience training! If you have a basic foundation of training in place, both you and your dog should find obedience training fun and very rewarding. Traditionally, Dog Obedience was dominated by German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Border Collies, but now you can find almost any breed and crossbreed imaginable taking part, from little Dachshunds and Jack Russells, through to giant Bernese Mountain Dogs and Leonbergers.
If you’re thinking about competing in the future, dog obedience is a really universal dog sport; they are no restrictions for handlers, and there are no restrictions on the size or breed of your dog. You don’t need a pedigree dog to compete in the UK! There are different levels of competition depending on your experience, including qualifying classes for Crufts, as well as Leagues and fun classes.
North K9 has a variety of options, whether you’re ready to start out on your obedience journey, or have already begun and want an experienced coach to help you level up. You can view any upcoming events here, and can also book one-to-one sessions tailored for you and your dog. If you’re not sure where to start, you can also contact Claire to discuss.
We have a Competitive Obedience subscription group via Facebook where you can get help with training, feedback, and support. Being a Member of the subscription group also gives you exclusive access to in-person Training Events and Workshops.
Claire North teaches all the dog obedience classes at North K9. Claire has been competing in various aspects of Dog Obedience for many years, with a variety of breeds (currently with her Belgian Malinois Blitz). You can find out more about Claire here.
