This class uses "nested" courses (multiple level signs) designed to provide experience and confidence for handler/dog teams preparing to compete in Rally Novice, Intermediate, Advanced or Excellent. Performances will be critiqued to aid in practice and instruction will be provided on any sign the class is having trouble with and on ring procedures. 

Prerequisites: Dogs must have successfully completed Intermediate Obedience and have a reliable loose-leash heel, sit, down, and recall.  Teams should be familiar with all signs for the level they are working on. All dogs must crate between runs.

Note: Some dogs in this class may have reactivity issues.

Exceptions to prerequisites are only allowed with permission of Instructor and Training Director.

This class uses "nested" courses (multiple level signs) designed to provide experience and confidence for handler/dog teams preparing to compete in Rally Novice, Intermediate, Advanced or Excellent. Performances will be critiqued to aid in practice and instruction will be provided on any sign the class is having trouble with and on ring procedures. 

Prerequisites: Dogs must have successfully completed Intermediate Obedience and have a reliable loose-leash heel, sit, down, and recall.  Teams should be familiar with all signs for the level they are working on. All dogs must crate between runs.

Note: Some dogs in this class may have reactivity issues.

Exceptions to prerequisites are only allowed with permission of Instructor and Training Director.

In Precision Heeling 3 we will continue to work on the skills required to achieve precise heeling in a competition setting. Focusing on engagement and duration of skills. 

Prerequisites: Approval from Instructor or Precision Heeling 1 and 2. Dogs will be crated when not being worked. 

This fun class is open to beginner dogs and handlers. Dogs must be at least six months of age - older dogs are welcome, too! Subjects covered include introducing the dog and handler teams to proper heel position when walking, the "sit", "down", "come" (recall), and "stay" commands, and how to meet and greet another person. Other fun and foundational activities will include focus and touch games, how to properly promote and reward desirable behavior, some novice rally signs, and a few trick dog activities.  

If this is your dog's first time attending a class at MDTC, owners/handlers are required to bring the dog's current vaccination records to the first class. All puppies MUST have received at least the 2nd round of DHPP (distemper, adenovirus [hepatitis], parainfluenza, and parvovirus) before attending the 1st class. Rabies vaccination is MANDATORY for all puppies 16 weeks or older per Virginia State Law. Leptospirosis (Lepto), Bordetella (Kennel Cough), and Giardia vaccinations are not required to attend class. Please consult your licensed veterinarian for additional questions or concerns.

Students for the class are invited to attend a free "Dog Training 101" Seminar on Thursday, 5/2/26 at 1pm.   Click here for additional details: (LINK)

Handlers are required to wear close-toed, well-fitting shoes for safety purposes.

In addition to your dog's vaccination records, please: 

• bring a supply of small, chewy treats that your dog loves
• use a 6-foot leather, synthetic, or fabric lead (no retractable leads and no chain leashes)
• dog should have a well-fitted collar - no harnesses
• dogs will be in the ring for the entire class; crates are not used for basic obedience