AKC Competition Obedience is a precision sport that showcases teamwork, communication, and reliability between dog and handler. Teams perform a series of structured exercises designed to demonstrate control, accuracy, and confidence in a formal ring environment.

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Training for obedience competition focuses on:

• Clear, consistent cueing

• Engagement and motivation

• Precision and accuracy of skills

• Reliable performance amid distractions

• Ring readiness and handler handling skills

 

Obedience is an excellent sport for dogs of all breeds and sizes and provides a strong foundation for many other dog sports while strengthening focus and responsiveness in everyday life.

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Beginner Novice Obedience Training

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Beginner Novice is an entry-level obedience class designed to introduce teams to the structure and expectations of AKC obedience competition while building confidence in the ring.

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This class focuses on:

• Heeling on leash with attention

• Sit, down, and stay exercises

• Reliable recalls

• Introductions to ring patterns and procedures

• Building focus and engagement in a training environment

• Handler skills, cues, and transitions

 

Beginner Novice is ideal for teams new to obedience competition or for dogs transitioning from basic obedience into sport training. Emphasis is placed on positive training, clear criteria, and creating a fun, rewarding learning experience.

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Novice Obedience Training

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Novice obedience builds on foundational skills and prepares teams for off-leash competition exercises required in the AKC Novice class.

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Training includes:

• Precision heeling on and off leash

• Stand for exam

• Reliable recalls with front and finish

• Sit and down stays with group distractions

• Ring confidence and trial readiness

• Proofing behaviors for duration, distance, and distraction

 

This class is appropriate for teams actively preparing to compete or those looking to refine skills to a higher level of reliability and accuracy. Handlers will learn how to maintain motivation while increasing precision and consistency.