Southern Districts Kennel & Obedience Dog Club Inc. (SDK&ODC) is a well-established sports club located in Adelaide, South Australia. The club was originally formed in 1966 as the Christies Beach branch of the German Shepherd Dog Club of SA. Recognising the need for an all breeds club, a committee of nine members held their first meeting on July 12th, 1966, officially establishing SDK&ODC.
The club offers a variety of training classes for dogs and their owners. Classes are held on Sunday mornings from 9am to 12pm and Wednesday evenings from 7pm to 8pm. Additionally, dogs that have obtained their trained dog certificate and show training can attend on Thursday nights from 7pm to 8pm. Training is conducted by dedicated volunteers who are committed to teaching dog owners the best practises to train their dogs.
The aim is to help owners develop well-mannered and happy dogs that are respected members of their families and the wider community.
SDK&ODC focuses on teaching dog owners essential skills, such as having their dogs walk quietly by their side without tugging on the lead, sit quietly whilst being patted, behave in the company of other dogs, and come promptly when called. Training is a continual process, and there are no set semesters. Owners and their dogs can join training at any time between the first Sunday in February and the last Sunday in November. The club conducts new member classes every Sunday and Wednesday.
The club follows a grading system to monitor the progress of the dogs. Instructors evaluate the dog's progress every six weeks, and dogs that show improvement and follow the instructor's guidelines are promoted to higher grades. The ultimate goal is for dogs to graduate from Grade 4 with a Trained Dog Certificate. Dogs of any breed and age are welcome to train at the club, although there is a rule that children under the age of twelve are not allowed to train or handle dogs on the premises.
In addition to obedience training, SDK&ODC also hosts various events throughout the year. These events include obedience trials, agility trials, Rally trials, and a Championship Show. These events provide an opportunity for dogs and their owners to showcase their skills and compete in a supportive and friendly environment. The club also offers a social Grade 5 class for handlers and dogs who do not wish to compete in trials.
SDK&ODC is a vibrant and inclusive club that aims to promote responsible dog ownership and provide a fun and fulfilling experience for both dogs and their owners. Whether you are a first-time dog owner or an experienced handler, SDK&ODC welcomes you to join their community and embark on a rewarding training journey with your furry companion.
