Things You'll Need:
- Dog Crate
- Grooming Supplies
- Show Lead
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Step 1
Decide what event you want to show in. Most kennel clubs offer a variety of events such as conformation, obedience and agility. Choosing your sport allows you to focus and hone your skills without spreading yourself too thin. Select the breed of dog you handle. Choose a breed that you are knowledgeable with and enjoy handling.
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Step 2
Find a mentor in your breed to learn as much as possible before entering the ring. Mentors are people who know the breed well and can offer their advice and expertise to help you hone your skills. Speak with your local kennel club or breed club to find breeders you might be interested in contacting.
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Step 3
Contact a breeder to purchase your dog. Select a dog who is bred from good stock and is free of any health defects or faults. Your mentor can offer you suggestions and point you in the right direction.
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Step 4
Sign up for handling classes with your show prospect. Handling classes help you learn the skills you need to be successful and allow you to build a bond with your dog.
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Step 5
Attend shows in your area to get accustomed to the environment. Dog shows can be noisy and confusing to newcomers, so spend time to understand the policies and procedures. Volunteer to set up show rings or even to ring steward.
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Step 6
Enter your dog in matches to prepare for your actual shows. Matches are non-pointed events in which knowledgeable people serve as judges to give handlers an idea of what will happen in the ring and to evaluate their dogs. A match closely follows actual show ring procedure, helping you polish your skills and present your dog in a low-stress environment.
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Step 7
Groom your dog a day or two before the show. Bathing your dog and doing any major trimming in advance will give the natural oils of the coat a chance to redistribute and give your dog a more natural appearance. Trim your dog's nails to prevent any tenderness in the ring. If your breed is one that requires extensive grooming such as the poodle, contact a professional show groomer to make sure your dog is groomed appropriately.
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Step 8
Arrive at the show early enough to set up your area and locate your ring. Do not rush yourself on a show day, as this leads to nervousness that you will pass onto your dog. Check in and get your number, attaching it to yourself immediately to prevent losing it.
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Step 9
Observe a class or two that runs before yours to get a feel for the judge's style and what he is asking of his exhibitors. Most judges follow a set pattern for their rings and will conduct each class in the same manner.
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Step 10
Perform any last-minute touch ups that your dog needs as close to show time as possible. A last-minute trim or brushing of the coat can make the difference between winning and losing. Put on your dog's show lead and head to the ring to keep from holding up the class.
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Step 11
Enter the ring promptly and listen carefully to the judge. Always keep your dog between yourself and the judge to give the judge every opportunity to see your dog at her best. Stack her according to breed standard and allow the judge to examine her, following his directions for gaiting after inspection.
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Step 12
Watch the judge and listen carefully at all times. Once the judge has made his decision on winners, he selects his choices from the line up and presents ribbons to the winners. Some judges to this with verbal commands, while others only use hand signals, so paying close attention is necessary. Always thank your judge and be courteous and respectful of his decisions, even if you do not agree with them.
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Step 13
Ask the judge how to improve your handling skills and for a critique of your dog after his judging duties are finished. Some judges are very forthcoming with hints and tips for success.
