How to Register Your Dog in a Show

Participating in dog shows is thrilling and entertaining, seemingly as much for the dogs as it is for humans. There are plenty of things to do to prepare for a dog show too, such as training and grooming. However, the initial necessary task is to register your dog, first with a kennel club (for purebreds) and then for a show event.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Breeding papers for your dog (if applicable)

Learn How to Register Your Dog In A Show

1. Take first things first. If you plan to show your dog in an AKC (American Kennel Club) show, then you must first register your dog with the AKC (see Resources below). Note that in order to register with the AKC, your dog must be a purebred.

2. Be prepared to furnish certain information when you register your dog with the AKC, including litter number (if known), name of sire and dam (father and mother) and the name of the breeder, if applicable.

3. Consider what type of show is best for your dog. Does he stand a good chance of winning best in breed? Should you enter your dog in an agility contest? Is your dog a working breed (as in sheep herding)? These are the types of things to think about before you register your dog in a show.

4. Check the schedule of upcoming dog shows and register to attend online (see Resources below).

5. Read the rules and guidelines for the dog show very carefully to make sure the event is right for your dog, otherwise your dog may be disqualified. Also note what attributes the judges will be looking for so you can polish those before show time.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't let the 'Heinz 57' heritage of your hound stop you from entering your dog in a show. Register your dog in the Nuts for Mutts show instead (see Resources below). This show is dedicated to mixed breeds and even senior dogs.
• You might want to take a handling class before you register your dog to show to ensure that you learn how to train properly and get the best performance from your dog.
• Remember to lavish your dog with praise when he's performed well, whether in a show or just during practice training in your back yard. After all, he lives to please and drools over your approval.

Resources

• Register your dog for Nuts for Mutts
• Register your dog for AKC
• Dog show schedule at the AKC website