Word from the APKC® Board of Directors:

Many of us have limited or no experience in dog shows. We are painfully aware of how overwhelming it can be to enter the dog show world with zero experience. Unless you’re an experienced dog shower, you may not understand the purpose of a dog show beyond a beauty contest.

Shows are an important aspect of progressing this breed. Attending these functions can be a lot of fun. We hope to keep the stress, drama, and politics away so we all have a clear path to learn more, have a community of fellow breeders to discuss our challenges, and move forward together in unity.

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For either newcomers or veterans, shows can be exciting and rewarding experiences.

Below we have put together some tips for you and your dog to ensure that attending your first show is a success!

BEFORE THE SHOW

Socialization
Socializing your dog will be key. It's important for your dog to be comfortable around other dogs and people. This will help them remain calm and focused during the show. Practice taking your dog to different environments and exposing them to various sights, sounds, and smells.

Loose-Leash Walking
Walking on a lead is another skill to work on. Your dog should be able to walk beside you calmly and confidently. Practice loose leash walking to ensure a smooth and controlled walk during the show.

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NEW Pre-Show Grooming Video - 30min

3 Min, Part 1 Grooming Video

3 Min, Part 2 Grooming Video

AT THE SHOW

Attitude
Firstly, the attitude of both you and your dog is key to a memorable and fulfilling first event. And a positive, appropriate attitude can also contribute toward an improved score in the ring! Being a good sport and showing courtesy and consideration toward other handlers, dogs, and judges is a big part of participating in the show. As a handler, you will be expected to be in control of your dog and attentive to the events in the ring.

Grooming
At the show, you will want to allot time for grooming prior to your exhibition time. You will want your dog’s coat to be clean and free of mats, and trimmed where appropriate. Toenails should be cut to the proper length and the face should be free of tear stains. Ears should be clean of excess earwax or dirt. Grooming should not include the use of dyes or other cosmetics.

Stacking
You may want to familiarize yourself and your dog with the concept of "stacking." Stacking is the term used when you position your dog to showcase their best features. This involves assisting your dog with the placement and spacing of feet, relative to each other, the table or examination space, and the judge. Practicing this technique at home will ensure your dog stands still and presents themselves well in the ring.

How to train your Pomsky to stack video.

The Examination
How your dog may be approached and examined by the judge is important to prepare for, for a positive experience in the show ring. Desensitizing your dog to being touched (and by strangers) is crucial, as your dog may be required to be presented on the show table, have their bite, muzzle, or head structure examined, and have a thorough full-body evaluation. Acclimate your dog to being touched all over their body, including sensitive areas like paws and ears. This will help them remain calm and cooperative during the judging process.

Gaiting
During the show, a judge may provide brief instructions of patterns they would like to see you and your dog move through. Pay attention and listen carefully to their instructions; if their directions are unclear or unheard, it is acceptable to ask for the directions to be repeated. There are several gaiting patterns worth becoming familiar with, the most basic of which are “Go Around” and “Down and Back.” Practicing these moves to become familiar with your dog’s optimal speed and motions required to move smoothly through them will help both you and your dog show the judge your best performance.

Remember, your first dog show is all about having fun and learning. Take your time, be patient with your dog, and enjoy the experience. Good luck on your journey into the world of dog shows!

Resources:

• Show Tips

• Common FAQs

• What to bring to a show

Resources:

AKC Beginners Guide to Dog Shows
https://images.akc.org/pdf/events/conformation/GESHW1.pdf

AKC Guide to getting started in dog shows
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/how-to-get-started-in-dog-show-conformation/

Socialization
https://www.akcchf.org/canine-health/your-dogs-health/caring-for-your-dog/socializing-show-dogs.html

Leash Walking
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/ask-our-trainers-teach-dog-walk-nicely-leash/

Handling
https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/4h/4-h-716-w.pdf

Dog Show Grooming Tips
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/10-grooming-tips-dog-show-experts/

Stacking
https://www.wikihow.com/Train-Your-Dog-for-a-Dog-Show

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUsnAdkSj7g&t=6s

AKC Oral Exam Guidelines
https://images.akc.org/pdf/events/conformation/Oral_exams.pdf

Gaiting Patterns
https://www.uwyo.edu/4-h/projects/_files/dogs/showmanship/files/patterns-gaits.pdf