My Intro to Rally - 3

 This is the 3nd edition of the Introduction to Rally

Last time we talked about the path that the handler walks in relation to the signs on the course. We have also reviewed signs #3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10.  To review, if you will be continuing in the same direction after performing a sign, the sign will be on your right.  If you are changing directions, the sign will be in front of you. The signs are numbered, beginning at #1 and are to be done in numerical order or you will not qualify.

We’ll be talking about signs #1 & 2 today - the START and the FINISH signs. 

We’ll also talk a little about ring entry.  If your dog can get into a ring and be able to focus on you (pay attention) when you arrive at the START sign, you will most likely Qualify!  The most difficult part of competing is during the Entry and getting started.  Getting your dog to focus on you after getting him out of the crate; moving from the crate to a new location; preparing to enter the ring; entering the ring; seeing the judge in the ring; the judge talking to you; and beginning your heeling from the start.  That’s a LOT for your dog (and you) to do and know how to do it.  You need to have a plan (criteria).  If your plan isn’t working, what will you do?  

First, we’ll discuss the START and FINISH signs to see where all this is going.  Here is a Video of Entering the ring to get to the START, and Exiting the ring after passing the FINISH sign.  In the Novice class, the leash will remain on the dog and will be hanging loosely (clasp hanging down) from the moment the team enters the ring until the team exits the ring.

Start and Finish Signs Video: https://youtu.be/M6MywUbiLNA

RING ENTRY:  To practice entering a ring, practice with your dog going between different barriers that may resemble a ring entrance.  The entrance is generally about 6 feet wide.  You can use cones, step in posts, baby gates, and even two chairs (back-to-back) if you don’t have the others.  See how your dog reacts to this ENTRY distraction.  Can you keep him focused on you as you go through this entrance?  If so, you should give your dog a jackpot!  You initially just walk through asking nothing of your dog except to heel with you.  Once, he’s ok with this, then you can (2) add a sit, then (3) add a turn and sit, then (4) add a turn and sit with someone saying “Are You Ready?”, then (5) you can add your response to a judge.  All are done sequentially and not at the same time.  Jackpots each time.  Then take your time and have fun exiting the ring with some interaction with your dog. 

Ring Entries often used by Judges.  Judges will often have the ring entry on the 40' end of the ring.  If it's on the right side, you most likely will walk straight into the ring and not have to turn to get to the Start sign.  If it's on the left side of the ring, you will probably have to turn to the right, after entering, where the Start sign will be.  The start sign is usually near the entry to save time.  The judge will also need to see your armband on your left harm as you enter the ring, so that may affect where your Start will be.

Here is the link for printing out signs. 

https://k9rally.com/Documents/2020SeptRallySignsSingles.pdf

Current AKC Rally Regulations:  
http://images.akc.org/pdf/AKC1193_ROR001_1217_WEB.pdf

Enjoy!  It’s all About the Journey!
Bea
www.k9rally.com

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