Program Details

Rally is a sport in which the dog and handler as a team, complete a course that has been designed by the rally judge. There are 2 major Rally venues at this point, AKC and WCRL. Generally both venues are covered in the BCDC Rally Classes. Rally is a dog sport that is open to both pure and mixed breed dogs.

The team of dog and handler moves continuously at a brisk, but normal, pace with the dog under control at the handler's left side through a course of between 10 and 20 "stations", depending upon level. There should be a sense of teamwork between the dog and handler both during the numbered exercises and between the exercise signs; however, perfect "heel position" is not required.

Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is encouraged and not penalized. Unless otherwise specified in the Rally Regulations, handlers are permitted to talk, praise, encourage, clap their hands, pat their legs, or use any verbal means of encouragement. Multiple commands and/or signals using one or both arms and hands are allowed. The only restriction is that the handler may not touch the dog or make physical corrections. At any time during the performance, loud or harsh commands or intimidating signals will be penalized.

Rally provides a nice link from the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. In addition, rally promotes fun and enjoyment for dogs at all levels of competition.

Each of the Rally classes is normally 6 weeks in duration. Classes meet once per week, generally for 1 hour. The class provides the instruction necessary for each of the skills at the given level. Class tuition ranges from $100.00 to $120.00 per class for Bayshore Club members and $120.00 to $165.00 for non members.