AKC COMPANION EVENTS
These events were developed so ANY dog and anyone of any age could show off their athletic abilities and demonstrate the bond that can develop between a well trained dog and its owner. AKC Companion Events consists of four different events: obedience, tracking, agility and rally. Obedience trials are one of the AKC's oldest traditions; it is truly a sport of finesse, precision and accuracy. Tracking evolved originally from obedience, but it has grown and developed into its own event that demonstrates the dog’s natural ability to recognize and follow a scent. Agility is a fast-paced obstacle course that relies on nearly flawless communication between handler and dog. AKC Rally is the newest event to join the Companion Event Family and it was developed after rally-style auto racing. The dog/handler team must navigate a course made up of directional signs. Each course is unique and different, it's great fun for the first-time exhibitor or anyone new to Companion Events.
There's a great overview at http://www.akc.org/learn/akc-training/akc-sports-overview-competition-mixed-breed that summarizes events. The NEMKC is working to offer these events, known as "Canine Partners", for everyone with All-American dogs. This is what we do with our dogs! Our club members encourage everyone and their dogs to enjoy canine sports. Have fun with your dog!
News from AKC:
New AKC Obedience and Rally Trial Manual:
AKC_Obedience-Rally_Trial_Manual_-_Master_v6_w-CoverLetter1
Read about the new agility Premier Class at:
http://cdn.akc.org/PremierAnnouncement_for_web.pdf
The subject of arbitration was originally addressed by the AKC Board in 2004 and AKC's then counsel provided an article with detailed information. This can be found at:
Thanks to Ruth Crumb, Delegate Companion Events Committee
Delegate, Mount Vernon Dog Training Club
This chart, prepared by Pam Manaton, Director of AKC Obedience, should be helpful in determining which class anyone is eligible to enter. That chart may be found at:
http://cdn.akc.org/Obedience/Events_Which_Class_Should_I_Enter_Rally_Obedience.pdf
This link has several pieces of information that may be helpful. On the "Tools" link there's good information on which class to enter for AKC Obedience and AKC Rally A level.
https://showentries.info/RulesGuide/
Thanks to Patricia Sample, Anderson Obedience Training Club, Inc. Anderson, IN