How to Teach Your Dog to Be a Show Dog

Dog shows -- also known as conformation events -- are competitions that rate purebred dogs based on how well they meet the standards of their breed. Qualities such as appearance, personality and gait are measured against breed criteria. To train your dog for a show, he'll need to be registered as a purebred by the American Kennel Club or another valid dog registry. Start right away with your dog's training -- learned bad habits and behavior are hard to reverse.

Things You'll Need

  • Trainer
  • Dog breed reference books
  • Leash
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Socialize your dog from the moment you bring him home. Promote well-adjusted, healthy behavior by taking your dog to dog parks and letting him play with other dogs. Invite friends and and family to your home to interact with the dog so he develops a sense of trust around people and exhibits good behavior. Take your dog to a puppy class where the primary objective is socializing.

    • 2

      Start training your dog on a leash when he is 8 weeks old. At conformation shows you'll have to exhibit your dog's gait. Take the dog out on short distances on a leash. Start with slow walks, then runs. When your dog is older -- at least 4 months old -- begin training him to heel to he follows your left leg and stops when you stop.

    • 3

      Train your dog to stack. Stacking is a still pose that shows conformation judges the dog's physical structure. Use the command word "stack" when training your dog in this pose. Move his legs into a proper position and hold a treat in front of him so he points his head forward. Get the dog to stack without using a treat, but only after several repetitions.

    • 4

      Hire a trainer. If you're new to showing dogs, it's best to work with a professional trainer. This trainer can also act as the handler for the dog in the shows. Find a trainer who has specialized knowledge of your dog's breed -- check breed association websites or go through the American Kennel Club. Research your dog's breed and familiarize yourself with the standards of that breed.