Rally Classes
Rally is a fun form of obedience. it is a great way to build on your basic walking on lead, sit and down skills while still having fun.
These classes are six weeks long and provide a basic introduction to the signs and how to do them in a very casual 20 min class and then a chance to practice with other Rally people.
These are 20 minute classes each week for 6 weeks and cost $60 for the introductory class
FAQ
Is my dog suitable for Rally or Agility?
Most dogs can participate! Ideal dogs:
Enjoy learning and interacting with you
Can focus (or are learning to)
Are physically sound for agility
Dogs don’t need to be “perfect”—training builds the skills as you go.
2. What age can dogs start?
Rally dogs can start at any age
Puppies: Foundation skills, body awareness, and engagement. No agility jumping
Adolescents: Controlled skills and beginner sequences
Adults: Can start at any stage
Agility equipment is introduced safely and progressively to protect growing bodies.
3. Will this help with behaviour?
Yes! Both sports can improve:
Focus and responsiveness
Impulse control
Confidence
Ability to work around distractions
They’re especially helpful for busy, over-aroused, or easily distracted dogs.
Agility is trained in a dog proof area so dogs can be worked on their own if needed for safety
Do I need experience?
Not at all—beginners are welcome.
You’ll be guided step-by-step with clear coaching for both you and your dog.
5. What will we learn in Rally class:
Loose lead and off-lead heeling
Position changes (sit, down, stand)
Turns, pivots, and transitions
Working through a course of signs
What will we learn in Agility class:
Flatwork and handling skills
Basic fitness work
Jumping skills and commitment
Tunnel confidence
Foundations for contacts and weaves
7. Is agility safe for my dog?
generally yes if your dog is healthy with no injuries. This will be discussed at the start:
Equipment is introduced gradually
Dogs are not rushed or forced
Emphasis is on technique and body awareness
Safety and confidence always come first.
What if my dog gets over-excited?
That’s very common—and something we actively train for. I train the agility class in a dog safe area so this means dogs can be trained off lead on their own safely
Classes include:
Calm start routines
Focus exercises
Breaks and reset strategies
Your dog learns how to work in a more controlled way, not just go faster.
Do I have to compete?
No but you can if you wish after sufficient training.
10. How many dogs are in a class? 2 to 6 so lots of attention, safe training and individualised
What do I need to bring?
Flat collar or harness
Lead
High-value treats
Toy (if your dog enjoys play rewards)
Water for your dog
You build a dog who:
Loves working with you
Can focus around distractions
Has an outlet for energy and drive
And most importantly—you’ll have fun together.
Foundation and Fun Agility classes
Rally and agility aren’t just sports—they’re a way to build connection, confidence, and a dog that truly wants to work with you.
Foundation classes are suitable for all age dogs as they do not involve any heavy impact
Fun agility is for dogs over 12 months- although the exercises can be modified for younger dogs if there is a not a suitable foundation class available. This is a basic fun class so it is introducing your dog to the concepts. We can create courses if you want to go further.
Agility is a fun sport for active dogs. These classes start to introduce some agility techniques and skills at a speed the dog can cope with. So different dogs in the class will progress to different points. Classes are based around tunnels and jumps with a small amount on weaves and contact foundations.
As the area used is fully fenced it is possible to train reactive or over excitable dogs as part of the class as long as I know in advance.
Classes are held just out of Waipukurau and can be evenings or day depending on scheduling. Cost is $180 for a six week class for the first dog in a family with discounts for a second dog if handled by the same person.
