Fun Match Rules

We were asked to provide a set of rules for organizing our fun matches.

Organizing a fun match is a fantastic way to build community and help handlers shake off those “show nerves” in a low-stakes environment. To keep it professional yet accessible, the Dumbbell Obedience Club fun match rules mirror the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) standards while allowing for the flexibility that makes a “fun match” fun.

Here is a refined and expanded set of rules so that we all can  enjoy our time at club matches

1. General Eligibility & Entries

•  Open to All:  Fun matches are open to both purebred and mixed-breed dogs.
• Health & Safety: All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations. Bitches in season are not permitted on the grounds. If your dog is not feeling well, please do not bring them to the match.
• No CKC Registration Required: Handlers do not need a CKC registration number to participate, making this the perfect entry point for novices.

2. Ring Procedures & “Fun Match” Flexibility

The primary goal is to simulate a trial environment and experience for the dog and handler. A fun match can help you gauge your teamwork and your dog’s readiness to trial in a less stressful environment without the pressure of an actual CKC trial.  Therefore, the following “relaxed” rules apply:

• • A fun match is an event that allows participants to test their dogs ability to perform in a trial like setting.
  • A fun match is an opportunity to fine tune your dogs performance before entering an actual trial.Food and play is allowed and encouraged in the ring  to make sure performing inthe ring is a positive experience for the dog  (and the handler).
  • Your run through “Judge” at a fun match is permitted to give suggestions or help to the participant, if the participant wants suggestions or help – but it is not the place for a lesson.
  •  Fun matches are venues to practice,  proof, and polish exercises and/ or pieces of exercises and to work on ring nerves in a simulated trialing and positive environment.

Please note:

• In the Novice ring – only Novice runs are allowed.
• In the Open ring only Open runs are allowed.
• In the Utility ring only Utility runs are allowed.
•  Corrections: Harsh physical corrections or intimidating verbal reprimands are strictly prohibited. The judge or ring steward will excuse any handler using excessive force.

3. Class Divisions

Follow the standard CKC progression to help handlers prepare for the real thing.

Obedience classes offered:

•  Classes
•  Pre-Novice
•  Novice
•  Open
•  Utility

Rally classes offered:

• Novice
• Intermediate
• Advanced
• Excellent
• Masters

4. Equipment

• • Leashes: dogs must be on leash at all times and under full control by their handler, unless working on off leash exercises during their ring time.
  • Collars: Only well-fitting plain buckle collars, slip collars, or martingale collars are permitted in the ring. No prong collars, electronic collars, or head halters during the actual “run.” In addition, prong and E-collars  are not permitted on the premises during our matches.

5. Code of Conduct

• • Sportsmanship: Any display of poor sportsmanship toward the judge, volunteers, or the dog will result in immediate disqualification without a refund.
  • Leash Control: All dogs must be kept on a short leash (max 6 feet) when not in the ring. No “flexi” leashes are allowed in the crating or spectator areas.
  • Clean Up: Handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs. We have a clearly defined potty area that is the ONLY area handlers are allowed to use as a potty spot. Failure to do so may result in being asked to leave the premises.
  • End of Match: Once the match is over, and all the wonderful volunteers who have stayed behind to help load the trailer, and it’s locked and loaded, we ask everyone to leave the premises. This is due to liability issues. Dumbbell Obedience Club is responsible for the security of the building and we need to ensure the building is left as we found it and secured as per the owner’s instructions.