Rally obedience (often just called rally, or Rally-o) is growing rapidly in the UK. It’s a fun canine sport that combines the traditional elements of obedience and heelwork, with the excitement of an agility-type obstacle course. It’s accessible and easy to enjoy both as a beginner or an experienced dog handler. You’ll strengthen the bond between you and your dog, and build on skills that are useful in the real world, as well as just the training ring. If you're looking for a way to improve your dog’s focus, build teamwork, and enjoy your time together, rally obedience could be the perfect choice.
So, what is Rally, and how do you get started? In this article, you’ll learn all you need to know to kick off your Rally adventures—what happens in training and competitions, what dogs are suitable, and where you can learn Rally.
What is Rally Obedience for dogs?
Rally obedience is a dog sport where you and your dog navigate a course with a series of signs, each requiring a specific obedience exercise. These can include simple tasks like sits and downs, as well as more difficult things, like 360-degree turns, speed control and distance commands.
Rally obedience competitions and clubs are super encouraging and supportive, both for you as the handler and your dog. You’re allowed to talk to your dogs, give multiple commands, and use hand signals throughout the course. The goal is to work as a team and complete the course as accurately and enthusiastically as possible. You’re not really competing against other people; it’s more about putting in the best performance you can as a dog-human team.
Rally started in the early 2000s as a way to make obedience training more fun and accessible. Today, it is recognised around the world by organisations such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and The Kennel Club here in the UK.
What happens in Rally obedience training?
Rally obedience training focuses on building communication, teamwork, and precision. In classes or private lessons, you and your dog will learn:
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How to work to heel and keep your dog focused on you
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How to perform basic obedience moves like sits, downs, and stands
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How to complete more advanced moves such as pivots, serpentines, and working at distance (for example, sending your dog away from you.
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How to read and understand rally signs
You’ll start your training by working on mastering individual signs and exercises from Level 1 (the beginner level) before moving on to full courses. As you work up the levels, the challenges thrown at you will become increasingly difficult, but it’s important to keep working on the beginner moves too, no matter how experienced you and your dog are.
Rally obedience is a very positive training environment for your dog. Clubs and competitions encourage the use of positive reinforcement in your dog’s training, and harsh treatment or punishment is penalised in competitions and within clubs. Your dog needs to have fun and enjoy their training, which also strengthens your bond together.
What to expect at a Rally obedience competition
Once you and your dog have some training under your belts, you might want to enter a rally obedience competition. Here’s what to expect:
The Rally course:
Each course is made up of 10–20 signs (depending on the level) laid out in a specific order. You’ll walk the course with your dog, completing each sign’s exercise before moving to the next. Courses usually take around 3 minutes to complete, although they’re slightly longer as you move up through the levels.
Scoring in Rally obedience:
You start with a perfect score of 200, and then points are deducted as you work through the course, for mistakes or errors such as having a tight lead, being in the wrong position, giving too many commands, or even for barking. You’re aiming to finish the course with the highest score possible. For levels 1-4, 175 points is a qualifying score; for levels 5 and 6, you need at least 180 points. A qualifying score helps you move up to the next level. During competitions, prizes are awarded for the best scores, but it is the progression and qualifying score that really drives people. You’re competing more against yourself than for the accolade of “winner”.
Rally obedience levels:
Most organisations in the UK use a 6-level system, from beginner level 1 (which is all on-lead) to the most advanced level 6, which is off-lead. The exercises become more challenging as you go up the levels.
To progress to the next level, you will need to achieve six qualifying scores under at least four different judges. Or you can progress by achieving an “excellent” score of 190 or more, three times under three different judges.
Sociable support:
Rally competitions are renowned for being friendly, fun and supportive. Many owners say they’re much less intimidating than some traditional obedience trials. There is a strong sense of community, and beginners are welcomed with open arms and a ton of encouragement (and treats for the waggy one!)
Which dogs are best suited to Rally obedience?
All of them. Yep, rally is super inclusive, and it’s open to almost any dog. Whether you have a small, shy dog or a large, energetic one, rally can be tailored to suit them.
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Breeds - All breeds can enjoy Rally obedience. If you’re aiming for Kennel Club Rally competitions, your dog will need to be registered with The Kennel Club, either on their Breeds Register or Activity Register.
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What about banned breeds? Always check the guidelines of the club or competition you’re joining. Breeds such as XL Bullies can join, provided they are registered with an exemption certificate, and they would probably need to be muzzled.
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Ages - Dogs can start Rally training at any age, but will need to be 6 months old to start competing.
If your dog enjoys learning new skills, has basic manners, and likes working with you, they will LOVE rally obedience.
Your Rally Obedience Quick Start Guide!
Getting started in rally obedience is easy and rewarding! Here’s a simple plan:
1. Build a Strong Foundation
Before jumping into rally, make sure your dog has basic obedience skills like sit, down, stay, come, and they walk nicely on a lead.
2. Find a Rally Obedience Class
Look for local dog training clubs, obedience schools, or private trainers that offer rally obedience classes. A good instructor can guide you through the basics and help you progress towards competition.
3. Practice at Home
You can set up simple rally courses in your garden, park, or even indoors. Many rally sign sets are available online, and you can start practising exercises one by one.
4. Attend a Rally Event
Visit a local rally obedience competition to see what it’s like. Watch different classes, talk to competitors, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
5. Register with an Organisation
If you decide you want to compete, you’ll need to register your dog with The Kennel Club or find competitions online at sites such as Rally News.
Ready to get started with your dog?
If you’re looking for a fun, challenging, and relationship-building activity with your dog, rally obedience is a fantastic choice. It encourages teamwork, communication, and precision—all while having fun together.
But maybe it’s not right for you, in which case, check out our ultimate guide to canine sports and find an activity that you and your dog will love!
