Obedience: a beginner's guide

Obedience trials test how well a dog and handler work together: heelwork on and off lead, recalls, retrieves, distance control, scent discrimination and stays.

In the UK, obedience shows are run under Kennel Club rules. Internationally, FCI obedience uses its own classes. It is open to any breed and is a good foundation for every other sport.

1. 1Pre-Beginners and BeginnersUK entry classes.
2. 2NoviceUK class with more exercises.
3. 3Class A, B and CUK classes of rising difficulty; Championship C is the top level.
4. 4FCI Class 1, 2 and 3International obedience classes.

• Join a club or training class and start with focus and heelwork.
• Enter a Pre-Beginners class when your dog can work calmly around other dogs.
• Rules change from time to time and differ between organisations. Check the current regulations with your club before you enter.

• Flat collar and a 1 to 2 metre lead
• A dumbbell for retrieves
• Food rewards and a toy

• Sampleford Working Dog Club (demo)Sampleford, United Kingdom VerifiedNewcomers welcome