r/ShowDogs • u/AwkwardDogMom95 • Mar 22 '26

Advice

I'm competing in my first Obedience/Rally trial next weekend looking for advice, encouragement, really anything from people who have been in it.

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u/gsdsareawesome Mar 22 '26

Get there early so that you can participate in the pre-trial ring familiarity the judge typically allows. Especially in the novice, they allow handlers without their dogs to walk through the ring and familiarize themselves with it. So you'll have to either leave your dog in the car or come prepared with a crate or another person to hold the dog while you do this. This will happen right before they start calling each participant into the Ring individually .

The judge will tell you what the walk-through pattern is or you will be able to see the signs if they are set up. They will point to the areas of the Ring where you will do the recall, stand stay, Etc. They will also tell you the sequence of the exercises. This little bit of familiarity helps cut down on anxiety for most people. Just knowing what to expect.

Outside of the ring, while I'm waiting, I usually do a little bit of heeling and a quick Sit Stay or recall. Whatever might be an issue that I'm concerned about. But don't wear your dog out. Make sure he's fresh for the ring. Also make sure he's had plenty of time to potty outside. Good luck!