Agility Part 2 (Rally)

A qualifying score is earned when more than 50 percent of the points are awarded for each exercise, with a total of at least 170 points. A perfect score in any class is 200. All dogs that have received a qualifying score in their class receive a dark green ribbon to indicate that they have earned a “leg,” or qualifying score toward their title.

Rally Signs

The signs may be any color and they include descriptions as well as directional arrows of exercises. Signs are numbered to make it easy to find the next station when navigating the course. All signs are placed to the handler’s right side. The signs are large enough to be easily recognized when going through a course. The exercises designated on the signs will be performed in close proximity to the sign itself, either directly in front of, or in front of and to the left of the sign.

Levels of Rally Competition

The three levels of competition in AKC Rally:

NOVICE - this is the first level for those just getting started in competition.

• All exercises are performed with the dog on leash.
• There is a requirement of 10-15 stations to complete with no more than five stationary exercises.
• The exercises performed vary from turning 360 degrees to changing paces during the course.
• Exhibitors at this level may clap their hands, talk to the dog, and pat their legs through the course.

ADVANCED – this is the second level, which includes more difficult exercises throughout the course.

• All exercises are performed off-leash.
• There is a requirement of 12-17 stations with no more than seven stationary exercises. Exercises include a jump as well as calling your dog to the front of you instead of to a heel position.

EXCELLENT - this third and highest level of AKC Rally is the most challenging.

• Exercises are performed off-leash except for the honor exercise.
• There is a requirement of 15 to 20 stations, with no more than 7 stationary
exercises.
• Handlers are only allowed to encourage their dogs verbally. Physical encouragement is not allowed at this level.
• The Excellent-level exercises include backing up three steps, while the dog stays in the heel position and a moving stand, while the handler walks around the dog.