An obedience trial is a dog sport in which a dog must perfectly execute a predefined set of tasks when directed to do so by his handler. 

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Training a dog to participate in CKC obedience trials increases a dog's understanding and reliability in responding to commands such as "sit", "down", "stay", "come", and "heel." At a trial, the dog and handler will perform various predetermined obedience exercises, which will be evaluated and scored by a judge.  

Obedience competition provides an opportunity for a person and a dog to work as a highly tuned team. Training for obedience trials can provide much needed mental stimulation and physical activity for a bored housepet, and provide a fun and challenging hobby for the dog's owner.