A
dog has to be exceptional to compete in Obedience -
like some of the dogs on TV.
Not at all. Almost any dog can compete in
Obedience competition regardless of his breed or
intelligence level. The only thing required is a nice
temperament and attitude. Obedience training can also
help a shy dog come out of his shell.
To
train and title in Obedience is expensive and
time-consuming.
Again, not quite. As far as the money goes, Matches (*)
range from around $4.00-$8.00 and Shows
(**) range from
around $17.00-$20.00 per show entry. As far as the
time goes - most trainers reccommend 15 minutes per
day training sessions. Most dogs that are being
walked on a daily basis take up more time than that.
A dog needs time and attention, and it is my opinion
that 15 minutes per day is not a demanding schedule.
I
don't even know where to start.
Well I guess that's why we are here. Below we
discuss the best ways to get started in Obedience
competition.
I
am just not good at that sort of thing.
Nonsense. If you can teach your dog to sit - you
can teach your dog to compete. It is a fun sport and
a great way to get control over that "little
bugger" that's now running your household - if
nothing else. Also, if you are looking for a way to
bond closer to your dog, obedience and competition is
a great way to start.
I
don't like competition.
Obedience competition, when taken in the proper
light, is a sport where most participators are
supportive and friendly. The Obedience show ring is a
friendly place where you are mostly competing against
yourself. The other handlers often cheer you on and
applaud if your dog has done well. If your dog has
done poorly the other handlers are usually still very
supportive. There have been many shows where handlers
approached me and volunteered hints that I was very
appreciative of. The only thing you really need - is
an open mind and a willingness to admit you are
learning every day, even after years of trialling.
Let's face it, you can never learn enough. Therefore,
the term "Competition" is really just
a term. The Obedience Ring is a place to make and
meet friends who enjoy the same thing you do - in
this case - your dog.
"Buddy"
is very spoiled and a couch potato.
Well, all the more reason. "Buddy" needs
his exercise as much as any of us. Also,
"Buddy" in time will appreciate you more
for the effort.
Are
you saying every dog will do well in Obedience?
Truthfully, no. There are some dogs that just do
not like it or enjoy it, although it is rare. I
suppose that occasionally we come across the
occasional dog or owner that has no intention or
interest in competition. This is ok. On the other
hand. I have had many people take our Obedience
classes that made great trainers with a little push
and a little guidance. Had I not pushed and cajoled
and explained - these people may have never competed.
Nor may these people ever have known about this fun
sport. This is what this page is about. My point is,
if we don't try it we will never know. We are letting
you know that you have brought him home, named him,
fed him, raised him and loved him. It does not have
to end there. There is so much more you can do with
your dog! SO? ......Let's get on the ball!
As a final note I want to make clear the
"qualifications" for advanced obedience
competition is, that if you want to succeed at this
very rewarding and fun sport, you will develop a
great bonding relationship with your dog despite
yourself. This is a sport where "FUN" has
to be stressed at every level of training. One of the
most common and understandable mistakes a newbie
trainer can make is to get "too serious"
which in turn may bring about "too
competitive". This may become boring to the dog
and in turn the handler as well. This might also
become frustrating. It is hard to have fun under
these circumstances. Many "newbie" trainers
get discouraged and feel as if they are getting
nowhere (for that matter - many seasoned trainers do
as well). The thing to remember is every one has
their own pace, dog and human alike. You can learn to
get the right attitude - and once you do - you're
home free. There are many clubs around the U.S. and
the world that will help you achieve your goals.
Please join one today! Remember, we at DOGGlink
reccommend for all obedience aspiring competitors to
train only with a club that advocates training in a
humane manner. We do NOT support harsh
training methods. DOGGlink is about the reader/dog
owner - YOU - training your dog with the help
of an association, club or training school. We will
also reccommend that anyone interested in joining a
club take the time to ask questions such
as: "Do you train for the competition
ring?" "Do you put on practice
matches?" The reader will probably get most
benefits from a training facility that is grooming
for the ring, if the ring is your aspiration.
If you are interested in competing in Obedience all
you need for a purebred is the registration papers OR
an ILP number. An ILP number can be obtained from the
American Kennel Club. To find out about an ILP click
on AKC.
For a Mixed Breed dog contact the
AMBOR The "American Mixed Breed Obedience
Registration" at:
this is
exciting!--->AMBOR<---has a web page now!
WAY TO GO
AMBOR!
AMBOR
10236 Topanga Blvd.
Suite 205
New Chatsworth, CA 91311
* Matches -
this is a "practice" show where a
qualifying score does not award you a
"leg". Many matches are recommended - to
get the dog used to the show ring. Also matches are
often less expensive than shows to attend.
** Shows -
these are "the real McCoy". In other words
a qualifying score will earn you a "leg"
towards your Obedience title. Some choose to go
directly to shows and by-pass the matches.
Back to Obedience
information
For more information about Obedience Competition
please feel free to send email to Carrie Ann
