Top Tip #31
Break each of the show training into smaller tasks.
Every exercise has a word (like stand, trot, turn) and a reward. If you get frustrated that your dog isn´t “getting it”, then play!
It is so important that your dog thinks that showing is fun and relates the training s being enjoyable. The most enjoyable dog to show is a dog which enjoys being in the ring and wants to please you.
Top Tip #30
You must be consistent with the terminology for any command given for a desired response.
Take great care that you are making it clear to your dog what exercise they are being rewarded for.
Stacking your dog
If you have a stacked breed, consider how you pick up your dogs legs; below are some do’s and don’ts of placing your dogs legs.
Do…
…place your dogs legs one at a time
…gently place your dogs feet on the ground
…pick your dogs leg up from the centre of the leg
…stay calm and take your time
…keep the stacking calm and rythmatic (one foot, two foot, 3 foot, 4 foot, head, tail, present)
…remind them of the command
Do not…
…pick your dog up from the under-carriage
…drop your dogs legs from height
…be rough with your dog
…use jerky movement
…throw your dog off balance
Remember to stand your dog in front of a mirror so you can see how you have stacked them to make sure that they are correct or ask your trainer to watch how you do it and give any advice to improve if needed.
Have a look at some more advice of stacking your dogs on the blog post Standing your dog – part I
Top Tip #29
Keep all training sessions short and sweet with your dog, especially puppies. Always use positive training methods and end each session on a good note!
Top Tip #28
Remember the show results are not final until the card/rosette is handed to you. Keep showing and presenting your dog to the judge until the card/rosette is in your hand.
Stay focused
While in the ring there are lots of things you will need to think about and concentrate on. Pay attention to what is going on in your ring. Remember the first and last dog so you know when the class is about to come to an end and be ready for when it is your turn.
Try not to engage into chit chat with others inside or outside the ring too much. Keep it to a minimum and make sure you are paying attention to what else is going on in your class, the judge and of course your dog.
It is advisable to also watch what the judge asks the other handlers/exhibits to do so you can prepare for what you are asked. This is especially important in Handling classes where the judge may ask for patterns different to the norm of a breed class.
Watching and ‘reading’ the judge will allow you to see what type of judge they are. In breed classes, how will your dog react to this type of judge? This is especially important in dogs which may be naughty in the ring or skittish. In Handling classes, can you ‘read’ the judge to see what type of handling style they may prefer? What are they asking from other handlers and what are they watching for?
Keep an eye on everything in the ring at all times. Also watch the judge when they are making their choice of placing’s to be ready if they do pick you.
Confidence
Confidence shows and can make a huge difference to you and your dog in the ring. If you oose confidence your performance will look better, neater and smarter and you will find your dog will show better for you as feelings and emotions are easily transferred down the lead to the dog.
What changes in you with confidence and a positive ‘can do’ attitude is your overall look and your posture will improve and you will make more eye contact and smile.
LOVE what you are doing and let it show. Smile LOTS and enjoy your time in the ring.
Knowledge of Dogs
In handling classes you may be asked questions on dog anatomy or breed- specific questions about the breed you are showing or about other breeds and groups. Therefore it is important to know and understand dog anatomy and know the history of the breed you are handling and roughly know the breed standard and characteristics.
If you are handling dogs in the breed ring, understanding the dog anatomy, construction and the breed standard will allow you to ‘judge’ the dog you have in the ring and understand it’s streghts and weaknesses. Once you know what these are you can try and hide the faults where possible to make the dog look better.
Respect & Manners to the judge and other exhibitors
Keep making eye contact with the judge but be careful not to stare them down. Remember you are there to show your dog off to the judge, be polite and always present the dog for the judge to see. For example, stand the dog where the judge wants them stood and get out the way of the judge by stepping aside if needed.
When doing circuits and if you are first in line, ask the handler behind you if they are ready to go and check the other handlers look ready before setting off. Also be courteous to other exhibit by not letting your dog wander towards the centre of the ring and keep your dog calm not jumping around in the line.
Don’t forget to always thank the judge and congratulate the winners of your class.
Shorten that lead….
If I had a pound for every time I told a handler to shorten their lead….
If you are having problems with your dogs movement, try shortening the lead. This doesn’t mean tightening the lead.
The shorter lead will give you so much more control and most handlers find the new lead length and arm position gives them more control and is more comfortable.
Give it a go and let me know how it goes.