English Shepherds are eligible to compete in UKC (United Kennel Club) obedience trials. Obedience Events test the training of dogs as they perform a series of exercises at the command of their handler. There are several levels of competition, ranging from basic commands such as "sit," "come" and "heel" to scent discrimination and directed retrieves over jumps. The classes are further divided by the experience of the handler as well. All dogs start their competition with a perfect score of 200, and points are deducted according to the performance of dog and handler. Obedience events offer an opportunity for the handler and dog to form a special bond of trust unequaled in other events. (from the UKC website).

The English Shepherd can also compete in ASCA (Australian Shepherd Club of America) and UKC obedience trials.

A new type of obedience competition is Rally Obedience. Dog and Handler teams navigate a course with numbered signs indicating different exercises to perform. English Shepherds can compete at APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) competitions.

For more information on UKC obedience click here.
For more information on ASCA obedience click here.
To learn more about Obedience, training and clubs click here, Owners guide to competing.
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