Preparing for your first dog show can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of items to bring to ensure you and your dog have a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Spectators: Grab your free ticket here.
Dog Breeders: Grab your dog registration here.
Pomsky Pet Owners: Grab your fun dog show registration here.
Essentials for the Dog:
Crate or Kennel: A safe and comfortable place for your dog to rest.
Exercise Pen: For them to have relaxing off-leash time.
Bedding: A blanket or bed for the crate to keep your dog comfortable.
Blanket: To go over the crate to provide privacy for your dog between events.
Water and Bowl: Stay hydrated throughout the event.
Food and Treats: Keep your dog’s energy up with regular feeding and rewards.
Highest value treats, since you want your dog’s focus in a noisy environment
Leash and Collar: The ‘show’ ones are common but not required.
Grooming Supplies:
Brush/Comb: For last-minute touch-ups.
Small Grooming Table.
Towels and Wipes: To clean any messes.
Scissors and Clippers: For any necessary trims.
Dog Shampoo and Conditioner: For pre-show grooming.
Hair dryer/trimmers - there will be access to electric outlets.
Waste Bags: To clean up after your dog.
Essentials for the Handler:
Show Entry Documents: Confirmation of entry, registration papers, and any other required documentation.
Identification Tags: For both you and your dog.
Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Suitable for the ring and handling.
Show Lead: A specific lead used for presenting your dog. Be sure your dog is familiar and comfortable with it.
Number Clip/Arm Band: To display your dog’s entry number, will be provided at the front desk.
Towels and Wipes: For quick cleanups.
Additional Helpful Items:
Portable Fan: To keep your dog cool if the venue is warm.
First Aid Kit: For both you and your dog.
Comfortable Chair: To sit, relax, and socialize between events. The tables have an attached picnic bench but we assume they are not comfy.
Pen and Notepad: To take notes or jot down important information.
Camera/Phone: To capture memories and important information.
Snacks and Drinks: For yourself to stay nourished throughout the day. There will be a food truck on site to buy lunch.
Tables: A wood picnic table (venue-provided), and basic plastic table coverings are provided. If you have logo-coordinating tablecloths and decor, we recommend you bring those. Feel free to make that assigned space ‘yours’.
Day of the Show Tips:
Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to set up and acclimate your dog to the environment.
Stay Calm and Positive: Your dog will take cues from you, so maintain a calm and positive demeanor.
Observe: Watch other handlers and dogs to learn and understand the flow of the show.
Practice: Take some time to practice in the ring if possible before your class.
By being well-prepared, you’ll help ensure a positive experience for both you and your dog at your first show. Good luck!
Resources:
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.