Unfortunately, according to CKC rules, dogs that are not entered in the trial are not allowed on the property. But you are most welcome to come and see how a trial works.
Trials
Where can I get a rule book for obedience and rally obedience trials?
Rule books for all CKC trials can be purchased on-line from the order desk at CKC or by calling the order desk at 1 (800) 250-8040. The Rule book for Obedience and Rally combined costs $8.50. You can download a copy for free from the CKC website.
Rule books are very complicated to follow for beginners. The best way to learn the rules is by attending classes that focus on rally or obedience. The instructor will explain the rules you need to know and you can ask questions.
How can I find where and when other trials are held?
One way to find where and when other trials are held is to go to Canuck Dogs which has information on dog events across Canada. You can also look on Entry Line. You do not have to pay to search for trials, only to enter them.
What is a rally obedience trial?
Rally obedience trials are less structured than obedience trials. In rally, you and your dog negotiate a course consisting of signs that instruct you to do anything from a sit and stay to weaving through pylons, or even performing a figure-eight exercise while your dog has to ignore strategically placed food bowls! You can talk to and encourage your dog throughout the course. Although the course is different each time, it must conform to standards set out by the Canadian Kennel Club.
NYOC regularly offers rally training classes.
What is an obedience trial?
Obedience trials, and all other dog sport trials, are opportunities for you and your dog to see how far you have progressed in your training. Like most dog sports, there are different levels of difficulty so you and your dog can enjoy the sport for many years. Every dog sport that has trials has it’s own set of levels and titles. For instance, in obedience trials, the first level is referred to as Pre-Novice or PCD (Pre-Companion Dog). To get an overview of the titles and terms used in obedience trials, see our Obedience Terms Chart.
What is a correction match?
A correction match is a practice trial in which dogs and handlers perform the obedience exercises in a regular trial ring but without the pressure of formal competition. At the moment, NYOC holds an obedience correction match on the Friday night before the trial. In the future, we might also hold a rally correction match.
What is a Premium List?
A Premium List is a booklet (or online document) for a particular club’s event. It contains details about the event itself, the judges, classes offered, awards being offered, location, entry forms, an overview of rules and regulations, the closing date for entries and the show secretary (who handles the entries).
See an example: North York Obedience Premium List 2018.
How do I enter a trial?
The Canadian Kennel Club website provides information on how to enter an event.
The websites, Canuck Dogs and the Canadian Kennel Club, give information about upcoming trials in Ontario and across Canada. Every event has a premium list which supplies all the necessary information in order to enter. The process can be confusing to newcomers to the sport, so please ask your NYOC instructor if you have questions.
You can also enter online or by telephone by using Entry Line, a show entry service. To use Entry Line, you must be a member ($15 annual fee). There is also a fee of 15% of the entry fees for telephone entries or 13% of the entry fees for online entries plus HST. Payment is through a secure credit card system. Entry Line is ideal for those who enter trials frequently, as the entry information is stored for each dog. It is also very useful if there is a postal disruption or if the closing date is close, as you are entered immediately with no concern for postal delays.
What is the Canine Good Neighbour Test?
The Canine Good Neighbour Test (CGN Test) was developed by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and is open to all dogs, regardless of breeding. The test requires you and your dog to complete 12 exercises which demonstrate your ability to control your dog and your dog’s ability to demonstrate good manners in everyday situations. Tests include exercises such as accepting a friendly stranger, politely accepting petting, walking through a door/gate, walking through a crowd, coming when called.
Passing the CGN shows that your dog can be counted on to present good manners at home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs. Beginner training classes at NYOC would be good preparation for the CGN. For more information on the actual CGN test, please visit the CKC website.
Can I enter my mixed breed dog in an Obedience trial?
Yes, mixed-breed dogs may compete in Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) Agility, Obedience and Rally Obedience Trials alongside purebred dog. Mixed breed dogs receive the same titles.
In order for a mixed breed dog to enter a trial, the owner must apply for and receive a Canine Companion Number for their dog. More information is available on the CKC website. Please note that not all CKC trials allow mixed breed dogs to compete so be sure to check the premium list.
In order to actually receive a title certificate from CKC, the owner must either choose to become a CKC member or pay the annual non-member participation fee. Since the membership fee and the non-member participation fee are the same, you might as well become a CKC member. For more information, please contact CKC’s Member Services team Department at 416-674-3699 or 1-855-DOGS CKC (1-855-364-7252) or email information@ckc.ca.