KENNEL CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT:
Please note this announcement replaces the one issued on January 30, 2019 regarding the same matter. Apologies for any confusion caused.
The Kennel Club would like to issue a clarification on the appropriate content for heelwork tests in obedience.
In the Descriptions and Explanatory Notes for Obedience Classes, Regulation G(c)4 stipulates which turns are permissible at each level. It also states that circles and arcs may be included as appropriate to each level.
Judges should note when designing tests that they should include heelwork in straight lines (except as provided for in the Introductory Class), which then facilitates turns of 90 degrees to the left and to the right. Tests must not consist solely of circles and arcs, although they may be included as part of the test.
More information on obedience can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities/obedience. All enquiries should be directed to obedience@thekennelclub.org.uk.