Rally Obedience Signs Can Be Valuable In Any Dog Training Class
No need to reinvent the wheel…there is probably a rally sign for it! Rally obedience signs are not just for Rally-O training and competitions. Rally is a sport designed for handlers and dogs at all stages of training. Utilizing the signs not only works in a basic level class, but also makes sense and has a variety of benefits.
1. Accommodate Visual Learners
Visual learners can SEE what you are asking them to do and may process information better and more efficiently. Addressing and accommodating learning styles in both the handler and the dog will be a benefit to both you and your students. It will make your classes unique and effective.
2. Students Don’t Have To Wait For Further Instructions
It allows for teams to work individually while you are assisting other teams. Setting up signs in your training space with numbers or symbols for your students to follow independently gives you more time to help other teams one-on-one.
3. Choose From A Variety Of Venues
There are several venues of rally obedience; allowing for a visual variety of the same exercise. Check with local competitors and/or clubs to find out what venues of rally obedience are popular in your area. Using several of the locally popular venues gives you and your students variety in class and exposure to dog sports. Below are to signs from five different organizations that offer rally obedience competition:
- American Kennel Club
- Australian Shepherd Club of America
- Canine Work and Games
- United Kennel Club
- World Cynosport Rally
4. Custom Training In A Group Setting
When teaching rolling enrollment classes, the signs can help you address the different levels of your students. For Fido’s first class, using the “sit” sign gets Fido up and moving and involved right away; for Fido’s next class, using the “sit-walk around (stay)” sign begins the 3-D instruction/training (duration, distance, distraction). While Fido is working on his “sit” and “sit-walk around (stay),” Spot is working on “sit” and “down” and Rover is working on polite leash walking using the pace change signs (“slow,” “fast,” and “normal”). The rally obedience signs are a great way to adjust to each dog’s skill level.
5. Easy Introduction To Students’ Next Possible Class
It may get your students interested in doing something beyond your basic level training class (increasing retention and income). Many students are interested in doing more with their dogs beyond the basic levels, but are not sure how to proceed. Having already seen the rally signs in class will encourage and empower students to continue with their training and strive to do more with their dogs.
Do you use rally obedience signs in your classes?
