Rodeo Dog® is a team-based dog sport focused on fun, teamwork, and movement. Dogs and handlers navigate timed courses and challenges that test handling, communication, problem-solving, and enthusiasm. All games and titles are based on official  rules and game designs from the Rodeo Dog Company. 

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This class teaches dogs and handlers how to approach and succeed in official Rodeo Dog® events. Training builds confidence, improves handling skills, and encourages dogs to move efficiently while having fun.

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Games Used in Rodeo Dog®

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Clover

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A classic pattern where the dog navigates around three to four barrels in a cloverleaf pattern, returning to a center square between each leg of the course. 

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Straight Line

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The dog and handler work along a straight course of barrels, emphasizing speed and direction changes while maintaining control. 

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Extreme Round Up

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A variation of Clover that adds tunnels between barrels, creating a flowing, dynamic pattern. Tunnels and barrel spacing are specific to the game’s performance and handling challenges. 

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Round Up

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Played on the Clover pattern, with added tunnels between barrels. The dog must complete the full sequence, including tunnel entries and exits, then return to the center. 

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Lock, Stock, & Barrel

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A Straight Line-based game with a tunnel placed after the last barrel. After exiting the tunnel, the dog and handler complete the course to the finish line. 

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Rodeo Dog® Levels & Titles

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Rodeo Dog® offers multiple achievement levels that reflect increasing challenge and handling sophistication. Teams earn qualifying scores and titles through official rodeo dog trials. I am a Rodeo Dog Club and Rodeo Dog Judge and can offer trials to earn titles. 

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Beginner

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An entry-level class where dogs work on handling basics and learn course mechanics while working on leash. Focus is on learning patterns (like Clover and Straight Line) and building confidence. 

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Performance

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This level introduces off-leash work, faster pacing, and more complex handling elements. Dogs perform games like Clover, Straight Line, and variations with tunnels. 

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Halter

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Handler must remain in the square or in defined positions during parts of the course, increasing difficulty and requiring refined communication. 

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Masters (for specific games)

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Teams must qualify a set number of times with clean runs in games such as Round Up and Lock, Stock, & Barrel to earn Masters titles at that level. 

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Champion & Grand Champion

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Champion titles are earned by achieving a required number of qualifying titles in specific games (e.g., Round Up and Lock, Stock & Barrel).
Grand Champion (GCH) titles are earned by double qualifying (Double Q) specified numbers of times in both key games at the same event.