Obedience is one of the most rewarding dog sports, showcasing the training, teamwork, and trust between a dog and their handler. Whether you're looking to build a well-mannered family companion or compete at the highest levels, obedience training offers something for every dog and owner.

What is Obedience?

At its core, Obedience teaches your dog to respond reliably to a variety of commands, from simple positions like sit and stay to more advanced exercises such as retrieving, scent discrimination, and directed jumping. The sport emphasises precision, control, and above all, the bond between dog and handler.

How to get involved

Whether your dog is big or small, hairy or smooth coated, old or young, all dogs and their owners will benefit from the pursuit of obedience training.

Getting started is easy. Dogs West can help you find a local Obedience Dog Club, where qualified instructors will guide you and your dog through the basics in a supportive and friendly environment. Many people who begin with simple obedience classes go on to enjoy the thrill and camaraderie of weekend trials and competitions throughout the state.

Whether you’re aiming for top titles or just want a well-behaved companion, obedience training is a fulfilling activity that brings out the best in both dog and handler.

How Obedience Works

Obedience trials are held regularly across Western Australia and are open to all breeds, including mixed breeds, of all ages and sizes. Trials are structured in levels, allowing you to start at the basics and work your way up as you and your dog grow in confidence and skill. Classes include:

• Community Companion Dog (CCD)
• Companion Dog (CD)
• Companion Dog Excellent (CDX)
• Utility Dog (UD)
• Utility Dog Excellent (UDX)

In recognition of exceptional performance, dogs can earn prestigious titles such as Obedience Champion (O.CH) and Obedience Grand Champion (O.GR.CH). These achievements reflect outstanding teamwork and dedication.
As you move through each level, you’ll be challenged with more complex exercises, encouraging continuous learning for both handler and dog.

But the journey is just as important as the destination. Obedience training promotes mental and physical stimulation, strengthens the relationship with your dog, and helps build a calm, confident, and socially well-adjusted pet.

Dog Obedience Benefits

“The idea of Obedience Trials is to demonstrate the usefulness of the dog as the companion of man not the ability of the dog to acquire facility in the performance of mere tricks. A dog that has been granted the title of Australian Obedience Champion has demonstrated its fitness for a place in our modern scheme of living” (ANKC Rulebook).

Are you and your dog ready to start trialling - read more.