How to Teach a Dog to Stand in the Show Ring

Show dogs are required to stand, or stack, in the show ring. They are required to hold this pose while being inspected by the judges. Some dogs have trouble learning to stand correctly and hold it while being inspected. Proper training is vital to a successful show career. Follow these steps to learn how to train your dog to stand correctly in the show ring.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ensure that you know the breed requirements for how your dog is supposed to stand. Some dogs are just supposed to stand still and look alert while other breeds must be hand stacked with their feet placed in a precise position.

2. Use a firm but gentle training approach when you teach your dog how to stand. You don't want to make standing in the show ring a scary experience.

3. Practice consistency in your training. Place his feet in the exact same position every time you work with your dog and eventually he will stand correctly on his own.

4. Utilize two important training tools when teaching your dog how to stand and look alert in the show ring, the lead and the bait. Bait can be anything your dog loves such as a squeaky toy or a dog treat.

5. Hold the bait in front of your dog's nose to get him to hold his head high and straight. It's OK if he nibbles it during training. Pull the bait away to get his attention and to make him look alert.

6. Place the lead up high behind his ears to keep his head still. Don't pull his head up too far.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have trouble teaching your dog how to stand correctly you can have a professional dog handler train him for you.