Showing a dog can be exciting and rewarding, but novice handlers may find the protocol in the show ring confusing at first. Professional dog shows frequently have more than a thousand dogs entered, but your dog will only be judged against other dogs of the same breed, sex and age. Preparation is an important part of showing well, and your dog will benefit from practice sessions in which he learns how to stand and walk on cue.
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Preparation
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Familiarizing the dog with the routine he will encounter at the dog show will ease his anxiety and encourage him to follow instructions. Local kennel clubs may offer conformation practice, where owners or handlers bring their dogs to expose them to a pretend version of a dog show. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends watching one or more dog shows prior to entering your dog so you know what to expect.
Grooming
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Dogs are judged on their appearance, and many owners bring portable dog crates, grooming tables and all their grooming supplies to ensure that their dogs looks their best before entering the ring. The dogs remain in their crates until a few minutes before they are scheduled to show, then the handlers will usually walk them in a designated "potty" area to ensure that no accidents occur in the show ring.
Handler Grooming
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Dogs are not the only ones that must look their best--handlers must look appropriate, too. Men usually wear suits and ties, and women wear dresses or skirts. High heels are inappropriate, however, because the handler must run in the ring if she is showing anything bigger than a toy breed dog.
Checking In
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At least 30 minutes before your dog is scheduled to show, check in with the ring attendant, and collect your armband with your dog's number. This armband should be positioned so the number can be easily read when you stand with your left side to the judge.
The Ring
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Line up with the other competitors in your group a few minutes before your dog shows. The order of the dogs as listed in the ring attendant's book is the same order in which you must enter the ring. Find out who is ahead of you, and be prepared to move quickly when your group is called.
Hold the dog's leash in your left hand only. The judge can set her own required show pattern, but frequently all the dogs will jog once around the ring, then stand in the correct position for their breeds (stacking). The judge will then request that each dog and handler perform certain tasks by themselves. Watch dogs that show before your dog so you know what the judge will ask of you.
Stack your dog, then leave him alone. Each breed stacks differently, so practice many times at home or at conformation classes to make sure your dog understands what is expected of him. Keep a few tasty treats in your pocket, and use one, if necessary, to keep your dog's attention and to keep his head up while the judge is examining him. Under no circumstances should your dog ever growl or snap at a judge. Run, shifting your gaze from your dog to the judge and back again. Judges frequently make subtle hand movements, directing handlers to another part of the ring or dismissing them, so pay close attention.
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