Qualifying Score All dogs and handlers begin with a perfect 100. A dog and handler team is awarded a qualifying score if it retains at least 70 points after the course has been completed. Once the team has completed the course, their score will be posted ringside.​

​

Novice  this is the first level for those just getting started in competition.

​

• All exercises are performed with the dog on leash.

​• There is a requirement of 10-15 stations to complete with no more than five stationary exercises.

• The exercises performed vary from turning 360 degrees to changing paces during the course.

• Exhibitors at this level may clap their hands and pat their legs through the course.

 

Intermediate This is an optional class to enter as an introduction to the Advanced class signs, with the exception that all of the exercises are performed on-leash and there are no jumps at this class level.

 

• All exercises are performed with the dog on-leash

• There is a requirement of 12 to 17 signs to complete, with a maximum of

seven stationary signs.

• Handler may clap their hands, talk to the dog and, pat their legs throughout

the course.

This title is not required to move from Novice to the Advanced class, but is

optional to enter if the dog is not ready to work off-leash.

 

Advanced  this is the second level, which includes more difficult exercises throughout the course.

 

• All exercises are performed off-leash.

• There is a requirement of 12-17 stations with no more than seven stationary exercises.

• Exercises include a jump as well as calling your dog to the front of you instead of to a heel position.

 

Excellent  this third and highest level of AKC Rally is the most challenging.

• Exercises are performed off-leash.

• There is a requirement of 15-20 stations, with no more than 7 stationary exercises.

• Handlers are only allowed to encourage their dogs verbally. Physical encouragement is not allowed at this level.

• The Excellent-level exercises include backing up three steps, while the dog stays in the heel position and a moving stand, while the handler walks around the dog.

 

Master This is the fifth and highest level of AKC Rally

 

• All exercises are performed with the dog off-leash.

• There is a minimum of 15 to 20 signs to complete, with a maximum of seven stationary signs.

• One jump is required in the class.

• Handlers are only allowed to encourage their dogs verbally in this class too