Competitive Obedience

Competitive Obedience is often compared to the equestrian sport of dressage as both are precision sports demanding deep partnership, communication, and skill, focusing on harmony, control, and beautiful execution of complex commands, from heelwork to recalls, but with the dog's enjoyment and clear communication being central to success, through consistent training

What Makes Competitive Obedience Unique

At its core, is about teamwork. It helps dogs feel secure and focused, strengthening the bond with their handler.
It is built through positive reinforcement, where desired behaviours are rewarded, helping the dog learn what is expected in a calm and confident way. Enabling the dog to understand, respond to, and reliably follow the handlers cues. It is based on clear communication, consistency, and trust between the dog and the handler.

Training Times

Competitive Obedience Competitions

Dogs perform a series of set exercises, including heelwork, recalls, retrieving, scent work, stays, and distance work. The difficulty, length, and complexity of the exercises increases at each of the levels of competition.
This is a Dogs NZ recognised sport. Find out more about Dogs NZ and Obedience here

When Can I Start Competing?

Your instructor will tell you when you are ready.
When you first start competing, there are tests especially for new competitors: They are on lead, so even less confident dogs and handlers can give it a go. Everyone will be at about the same level as you and your class instructor can help you every step of the way, from how to enter, to collecting and helping you understand your points at the end of the show.

Requirements

Dogs should have completed Canine Good Basics and/or the Dog Manners class or an equivalent.
Handlers must have a good level of control of their dogs