Glossary

Obedience trial

A formal dog sport that judges how precisely a dog performs set exercises such as heeling, recalls, stays and retrieves, in classes from Novice to Utility.

Also called: obedience, obedience competition, competition obedience, novice open utility, CD CDX UD

An obedience trial is a competition in which a dog and handler perform set exercises in front of a judge. Heeling beside the handler, coming when called, sitting and lying down for a stay, and retrieving a dumbbell over a jump are common ones. In the AKC system, the classes run from Novice to Open to Utility, and each one is harder, with titles earned along the way.

Judges score accuracy and attitude, and a dog starts with a full score and loses points for each fault. Unlike rally, the handler may not give extra commands or encouragement during the exercises, so the work looks quieter and more formal.

Obedience was one of the first dog sports, and the skills carry over to sports such as dog agility. A title does not mean a dog is a good family pet, though it shows steady training. Mixed breeds can enter in AKC events.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Rally A dog sport in which a handler and dog move through a course of numbered signs, each showing an exercise to perform, with talking and encouragement allowed. Dog agility A timed sport in which a handler directs a dog over an obstacle course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles and ramps, open to purebred and mixed-breed dogs. Conformation A dog show event in which each purebred dog is judged on how closely its structure and movement match its written breed standard. Herding trial A competition in which a dog gathers, drives and pens livestock such as sheep or cattle under a handler's direction, judged on control and ability.