How to Show a Brace in a Dog Show

Dog shows often include a variety of events including conformation, agility, obedience and brace competitions. Brace events differ from most other events as they require that two dogs be shown at the same time by a single handler. The dogs enter the ring side by side and are judged on basic conformation, movement and their ability to interact as a pair. Showing a brace in a dog show is not difficult, although it does take a bit of time and preparation.

Things You'll Need

  • Crates
  • Grooming tools
  • Brace coupler
  • Show collars
  • Show lead
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a pair of dogs that are conformationally correct for their breed and fit the standard. Each breed has a different standard that defines the ideal dog of that breed, so choosing show dogs that match that standard as closely as possible is essential for success in the ring. Speak with an experienced breeder to help learn the standard and discover what qualities to look for in your particular breed.

    • 2

      Register your dogs with the registry of your choice. Registration with your region's kennel club makes your dogs eligible for competition and gives you a number of competitions to enter your dogs in. Dog registries like the American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club are well known and host many events throughout the year. Contact the registry of choice for a registration packet and instructions on how to register your dogs.

    • 3

      Attend a handling class to prepare your dogs for the ring and to learn the policies of the show ring. A brace class dictates that two dogs of the same breed be shown side by side, which can be difficult without practice. The handling class will teach you how to stack and gait your dogs so that your brace is prepared for an actual show.

    • 4

      Enter your dogs in a show in your area. Most registries have a list of upcoming shows on their website, so check frequently for kennel clubs that are hosting local events. Fill out the appropriate forms provided by the kennel club and pay the entry fees to secure your space in the show. Once your entry is confirmed, the hosting club will send you an entry packet that lists the ring number and time for your class.

    • 5

      Arrive at the show grounds at least two hours before your scheduled show time. Set up your crates and groom your dogs as soon as you arrive so they have plenty of time to become acclimated to the hustle and bustle of the show grounds. Attach a brace coupler to the collar of each dog and to the end of your show lead to keep your dogs together while in the ring.

    • 6

      Check in with the ring steward 10 minutes prior to your ring time and wait for your number to be called. The judge will ask you to enter the ring and gait your dogs before stacking. Listen to his instructions and follow them closely. Stand quietly while the judge examines your dogs, holding a treat in your hand to keep their attention during examination. The judge will run his hands over both dogs, checking for proper structure, as well as look at their teeth to make sure each dog has a proper bite.

    • 7

      Watch the judge carefully while in the ring. If he asks you to move your dogs or change positions with another handler, do so promptly. The judge will make his selection and select the brace that best meets the standard after his examination. If you are selected for a placement, step forward and collect your prize, thanking the judge for his time before posing for photos. If you are not selected, thank the judge and exit the ring.