Leash And Collar At Trials (Not Class)

 

FROM AKC® OBEDIENCE REGULATIONS

CHAPTER 2 Regulations for Performance and Judging Judging Standards and Procedures 

For your viewing pleasure --- I present to you the rules in regard to Leash & Collar! Also --- Crib Notes from yours truly. Enjoy!

Section 16. Use of Leash. 

• All dogs must be kept on a leash except when in the obedience ring, warm-up ring or exercise area and must be brought into and taken out of the ring on leash. 
• Leashes must be clipped to the collar when dogs are brought in for classes requiring an on-leash exercise, a group exercise and awards. 
• This pertains to the Novice and Beginner Novice Classes for the individual Class Runs.
• ALL CLASSES - when they pin awards - you need to bring the dog in with the leash clipped onto the collar 

• In a class where a leash is not required for the performance of the individual exercises, the dog may be brought into and taken out of the ring on a leash that slips/attaches through the dog’s collar. 
• Classes where a leash is not required for the performance of individual exercises are: Open   Utility

• The leash must be made of fabric or leather and need only be long enough to provide adequate slack during the Heel on Leash exercise, unless stated otherwise in these regulations. 
• Fabric or leather means no chains.
• "Adequate Slack" - A smaller breed may require a 6 foot lead. A larger breed may be good with a 3-4 foot lead. 

• The Novice Group Exercise – Sit and Down Stay, and the Beginner Novice Sit for Exam must be performed with the dog on a 6-foot leash.  
• Novice has the option of the 6 foot or shorter during Individual Exercises.
• Beginner Novice MUST use the 6-foot during Individual Exercises. 

Section 17. Collars. 

• All dogs in the obedience ring must wear a properly fitted collar approved by the judge.
• No dog may enter the ring, either for judging or for awards, with unacceptable equipment.
• No special training collars, such as electronic collars or prong collars, will be permitted.
• Nothing may be hanging from the dog’s collar.