Puppy and Dog Shows

How to Prepare Your Pet

For a Puppy/Dog Show

Dog shows are part Grooming

Part Performance to Breed Standard

1. A Dog Show Demands

Calm Socialization of your Puppy/Dog

Puppy/Dog Shows are very busy, noisy often crowded environments – you pet should be very comfortable

• With other dogs nearby/in close quarters
• Loud noises
• Other dogs barking
• Nearby distractions such as other owners feeding treats to their pets

Note: your puppy/dog must be comfortable with show judges running their hands over their fur/body and examining teeth

2. Grooming and Coat Care

For Show Readiness

Each breed of dog has specific grooming expectations for a show

• Regular bathing and grooming with the proper soaps and combing brushes
• Proper trimming or no trimming as required for your breed of puppy dog
• Clean ears thoroughly
• Clean teeth – get veterinarian advice
• Have veterinarian check and trim nails – learn the technique

Be certain about your breed of puppy/dog show requirements – judges are precise about details – no exceptions.

3. Teach “Stacking”

It is a Basic Must Learn

Stacking is how your puppy/dog must stand for judging during the show.

1. Free Stacking – you puppy/dog must naturally stand square – normal body stance
2. Hand Stacking – you the handler place your puppy/dogs feet precisely

This is the show stances – practise daily – rewarding with praise and treats.

4. Gait Training

Walking/Trotting for Judges

Judges watch how your Puppy/Dog moves.

1. Practise walking/trotting your puppy/dog – encourage good movement with praise and treats
2. Train using a straight line or a proper triangle form
3. Maintain a controlled pace
4. Maintain a smooth attractive pace

Advice: a thin show lead aids in presenting a clean show movement.

5. Practise Show Ring Handling

Consistently and Regularly

Ask trustworthy relative/mates to act like judges

• Run their hands over your show dog
• Check the teeth
• Lift tail
• Examine stance
• Watch you walk/trot like in the show ring

Reward your puppy/dog with praise and treats for being calm and confident.

6. Practise Show Ring Handling

Join Local Conformation Classes

Learn to Be Confident and Consistent

Show ring classes are referred to as “conformation classes”.

1. These classes stimulate shows
2. Help giving your puppy/dog show confidence
3. Builds your confidence as a show handler

You and your puppy/dog learn proper ring etiquette – manners are important with judges.

7. Show Day

Be Prepared

As excited as you will be, get a good nights sleep.

1. Arrive early at the show location – allows your show puppy/dog time to adjust to the event happenings
2. Calmly continue grooming
3. Bring food, water, treats
4. Have a proper crate/carrier for quiet time/rest

Every puppy/dog owner learns the moment their pet gets that personal competitive show attitude – it’s an exciting time.

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Will Give You/Your Family

Unconditional Love

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