Ridgebacks, being the versatile dogs that they are, are eligible for several AKC performance
events, including obedience, lure coursing, agility, tracking and, unofficially, herding instinct
tests. ( The RRCUS recognizes the HIC title for it's Versatility title.) So how does a person go
about getting started?

Who can participate? While age requirements vary with the event, all dogs must be at least 6
months old to participate in any AKC-licensed event. Any dog that has an AKC registration or
Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP number) may be entered, including those that are spayed and
neutered. Anyone can handle their own dog in these events.

The easiest way to find out when and where any AKC event is being held is to subscribe to the
AKC GAZETTE, where there are monthly listings under the Events Calendar or to check the AKC’s website under "Dogs in Competition". ( http://www.akc.org ) Many of the AKC-licensed shows throughout the country have added one or more of these events as special attractions or exhibitions and all these activities make for an interesting family outing.
 
 

OBEDIENCE

Obedience Trials test a dog's ability to perform a prescribed set of exercises on which it is
scored. In each exercise, you and your dog must score more than 50% of the possible points (
ranging from 20-40) and get a total score of a least 170 out of a possible 200. Each time your
dog gets that magical 170 qualifying score, we say he's gotten a "leg" toward his title. Three legs
and your dog has become an obedience titled dog! There are 3 levels at which your dog can earn
a title and each is more difficult than the one before it. In addition, each level has an "A" and
"B" division. Basically, "A" is for beginners whose dogs have never received a title, while "B"
classes are for more experienced handlers.

    NOVICE: The first level requires your dog to demonstrate the skills required of a good
    canine companion. The exercises are to heel both on and off leash at different speeds, come
    when called, stay (still and quiet) with a group of other dogs and allow a standing physical
    exam from the judge. The title awarded your dog for getting 3 legs in the Novice class is
    that of Companion Dog (CD) after his registered name.
    OPEN: In this class the dog must do many of the same Novice exercises but all are
    off-leash. In addition, there are jumping and retrieving tasks and the group "stays" are for a
    longer period with the handler out of sight. The title earned for this class is called
    Companion Dog Excellent or CDX.
    UTILITY: The creme de la creme of the obedience world....In addition to more difficult
    exercises, like the directed retrieve and jumping, the dog must do scent discrimination
    tasks. The title earned in this class is called Utility Dog or UD.
    OTCH and UDX: The best of the best can go on for more titles. Utility Dogs that continue
    to compete and earn legs at 10 shows become Utility Dog Excellence (UDX). Utility Dogs
    that are ranked 1st or nd in Open B or Utility classes can earn points toward a title called
    the Obedience Trial Champion or OTCH.

TRACKING

Ever watched a show or movie where the bloodhounds track the criminals through the swamp?
Well, AKC Tracking Trials allow dogs to demonstrate their natural ability to recognize and
follow human scent. Unlike Obedience Trials which require 3 legs, Tracking titles can be
completed with only one track. A dog is required to follow a human scent that can be from 30
minutes to 2 hrs old over 440-500 yards with turns.

Tracking also has several levels, including Tracking Dog Excellent (TDX) and Variable Surface
Tracking (VST).

GETTING STARTED IN OBEDIENCE OR TRACKING

If all this sounds like fun...and it is!.....then here are some ideas and resources:

  1.Don't wait! Puppy kindergarten classes are designed for 2 -5 month old puppies and
    really focus on the very basics of training. Many basic training classes start puppies at 5-6
    months of age. Just like kids, puppies pick up lessons very quickly when learning is made
    into a fun activity.
  2.Local dog clubs may hold classes that are taught by people knowledgeable in the sport and
    can help you train for these exercises. There are 5 kinds of dog clubs to look for:
    Obedience clubs, Tracking clubs, All-Breed clubs, Group clubs (devoted to a variety
    groups, like Hounds or Toys) and Local Specialty clubs ( those devoted to one breed.).
    There may be either one, several or all of these in your area that either hold classes and/or
    publish newsletters with articles. Getting involved with a club can teach you many more
    things about your dog that can be helpful. You can access the AKC's Website
   (http://www.akc.org ) for the   geographical listings of clubs across the US.
  3.The American Kennel Club can supply you with information on all of these events by
    accessing their website or writing and asking for free rules and regulations on your favorite
    event.
  4.Local libraries, book stores or pet supply stores will usually carry several books on
    training your dog. You'll find that every author has his or her own method - no one has a
    patent on the right method! It's best to explore many methods and find what works best for
    you and your dog.
  5.Once you've gotten started, test your budding skill at matches. These are informal,
    inexpensive practice shows put on by dog clubs or groups. While you won't earn legs
    toward your title, you will get a taste of doing it "for real".
  6.Attend some Trials to observe and mingle. You’ll see skilled dogs and handlers ( and many
    who need to work some more!). You can meet people who have the same interests as you
    and can give you some tips or direct you to other classes and events in your area.

AGILITY

Agility is one of the newest AKC events and it is open to every breed. Dogs must be at least one
year old to participate. In an Agility Trial a dog demonstrates its ability to negotiate a complex
course which may include a walk over a bridge, jumping through objects, going through tunnels
and pausing on command. There are different height categories so each dog is tested fairly on the
course. Agility is exciting for the dogs, handlers and spectators. There are sanctioned Agility
clubs and there are also many breed and obedience clubs that offer agility competitions. Many of
these clubs also offer classes and less formal matches for beginners.

You can read all about Agility Rules and Regulations on AKC’s site at http://www.akc.org

LURE COURSING

Lure coursing is when dogs follow an artificial lure around a course on an open field. Coursing
dogs are scored on speed, enthusiasm, agility, endurance and their ability to follow the lure.
There are other breeds besides RRs that can course at the same tests.

Coursing is a great way to keep your dog physically and mentally fit. Dog must be a least one
year old to run at an AKC event. Dogs with breed disqualifications are not eligible, which
means RRs without ridges cannot participate.

Many clubs offer non-competitive Lure coursing clinics for newbies. Check AKC's list of
geographical clubs for the club nearest you or look for lure coursing tests at AKC's Website,
under Events.

ASFA ( American Sighthound Field Association ) also has numerous lure coursing events around the country and you can check their events  online at http://www.asfa.org .

Got questions? Here’s the link for Lure Coursing FAQs - http://www.clark.net/pub/bdalzell/lure.coursing.faq.12.html

HERDING

Although not eligible for an AKC title in herding, RRs can participate when local groups hold herding clinics and offered a certificate from their local club to any breed that passes the Instinct Test. The best part about this test is your Ridgeback instinctively KNOWS WHAT TO DO! It's the most AMAZING thing you'll ever experience! Check and find a local Herding club or look for Herding tests in the Gazette or AKC ON-LINE and get in touch with some members so that can tell you when the events will be held.