Obedience Control Test

The test is designed to test the dog's ability and proficiency and the handler's control over his/her dog. This test is to determine if the dog is capable of performing off/on lead obedience.

This test must be passed prior to other certifications being issued.

The Search Dog team will be tested in the following two (2) phases:

  1. Heeling Phase
  2. Distance Phase

Each phase may be tested in any order and will be judged on a pass/fail basis. All phases will be done under direction of the Evaluator. No cruel or abusive corrections will be displayed at any time. If such is observed the Evaluator will note same and forward to OHIO FEDERATION OF K9 SEARCH TEAMS Headquarters for file information.

Heeling Phase

This portion of the obedience test will be conducted on lead.

The heeling phase of this test will consist of the following exercises:

  1. Normal pace
  2. Fast pace or double time
  3. Slow pace or half step
  4. A minimum of two (2) right turns; two (2) left turns; two (2) about turns.

Each leg of the above must be a minimum of thirty (30) feet long.

Dogs working on lead are exempt from this part of the obedience test.

Distance Phase

Off Lead

At a point designated by the Evaluator, the handler will leave his/her dog in a "Stay". At a distance of no less than fifty (50) feet, nor more than seventy five (75) feet the handler will be directed to turn and face his/her dog.

The Evaluator will then instruct the handler to recall his/her dog by hand ,by voice or both. Dog is to remain in the stay for 1 minute but not more than 3 minutes. Dog is allowed to change positions during the stay. Handler may repeat command.

On Lead

For those dogs who work on lead, This portion of the obedience test will be conducted on a 30 foot - 50 foot lead.

All tests given the Dog Team will be on a pass/fail basis. The Evaluator will determine if the team will be certified upon the completion of the test. The handler and dog will be considered as a team and it is the team who will be certified. If the dog changes handlers, a new team exists and the team will need to be certified.

This certification will be valid for two (2) years from the date of issue once a specific dog/handler team passes the same Obedience Test the second time (i.e. on lead or off lead) the certification is valid for as long as the team is operational.

NOTE 1: If this test is being administered ONLY for certification under the OHIO FEDERATION OF K9 SEARCH TEAMS and not also Certification for NAPWDA (under the examination of a Master Trainer from NAPWDA), then the use of hand signals and drop on recall are not required.

back

Standards Revision October 21, 2006

Guidelines