AKC obedience trials demonstrate the usefulness of the dog as a companion to man. Developed in the 1930's it is one of the AKC's oldest events! Obedience trials showcase dogs that have been trained and conditioned to behave well in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. AKC trials allow exhibitors and their dogs to enjoy companionship and competition as they proudly earn AKC titles.

AKC Rally® is a companion sport to AKC Obedience. Both require teamwork between dog and handler along with similar performance skills. Rally provides an excellent introduction to AKC Companion Events for new dogs and handlers and can provide a challenging opportunity for competitors in other events to strengthen their skills. The dog and handler team move at their own pace, very similar to rally-style auto racing. Rally was designed with the traditional pet owner in mind, but it can still be very challenging for those who enjoy higher levels of competition.

From the AKC's A Beginner's Guide to Companion Events

Each Year the Afghan Hound Club of America holds an Obedience Trial and AKC Rally Trial at its National Specialty Show.

Training an Afghan Hound for competition in obedience can be both a frustrating and rewarding experience. Afghan Hounds are very intelligent and learn quickly, but they are also independent, self oriented free spirits. This combination of personality traits means that while they can learn quickly what you want them to do, they often choose not to do it.

The most successful trainers use positive reinforcement techniques to motivate them. Punishment, repetition and compulsion methods are often counterproductive and result in a poor performance and training sessions which are not fun for either the dog or the trainer!

AKC's Getting Started in Obedience

For more information, contact the AHCA Obedience, Rally and Versatility Committee Chairperson: Lynda Hicks

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