Some Tips For The Dog Show

First, take it easy. When you get nervous, you can remind yourself about the hundreds of thousands of other exhibitors who feel exactly the same!  The whole thing should be fun.

Second, when the judge doesn't choose your dog as the best of the day, it doesn't mean that other judges wouldn't appreciate him. Of course it is wonderful when you get a good result.

Third, a good preparation gives you confidence and it definitely looks nice when there is harmony between the dog and the owner.

For you:

All required papers.

Choose clothes that you feel comfortable in. Practical and nice. Shoes that won't slip.

Something - a safetypin - to attach the number on your clothing.

A foldable chair and other things that make you feel comfortable while you are waiting.

A good mood and  sportsmanship. Encouraging words for other participants make you feel good as well.

For your toller:

Newly washed dog. Wash  with dog shampoo at least two days before. You don't have to trim a toller when you don't want to. I personally like short hair by the ears and tidyly trimmed paws (do the job some weeks beforehand). You don't have to if they look nice anyway. Especially not with a young dog.

Just in case there is a need: a brush and a comb.

A thin lead and no separate collar.

A bowl of water and Robidog-bags. Goodies in the pocket (be creative).

A Portable Pet Home or a mat for resting.

When it is your turn:

You can very well tell the judge that this is one of your first times. He will then pay attention to clear instructions.

When the judge asks you something (ex. the dog's age) you should of course answer but one doesn't talk to him otherwise. You don't explain this and that and especially no discussion about the looks of your dog or complaints about the results! There are exhibitors, that do this regularly and the behaviour is neither fair towards the others nor is it respectful toward the judge.

Now you can show, what you have been rehearsing at home:

The dog stands in front of the judge (young dogs have a certain freedom) and allows the judge to inspect the ears, eyes and muzzle. The constitution, muscles and tail (and the testicles by male dogs). It is a good idea to let people to touch the dog a lot.

Always remember that it irritates the judge when he can't see the dog clearly from the side. Let the dog stand some meters away from the judge's table as immobile as possible. When the dog tries to sit down, encourage him to stand up again. When he refuses, you can put your hand under the stomach to keep him standing. The best thing is to rehearse this at home with a "judge" or alone in front of a big mirrow/window. A big parking lot is best for running. Railway stations are ideal for rehearsing with a lot of people around.

The dog runs nicely and attentively (he knows what you have in your pocket) by your side. He won't have to be dragged along. Encouraging and calming wonds with a positive attitude adds to the harmony. Don't use unfriendly language in the ring.

Usually one runs a tringle or a round and also back and forth.

When there are a lot of dogs in the class, it is too much for a dog to keep a perfect position all the time. Let the dog sit or lie down while others are being inspected. Don't forget though, that when the judge glances at you, it is good when you two look good!

In the ring you have eyes only for your dog. No comparing looks right or left! You see and admire only your dog! It doesn't mean that you couldn't be friendly with others but you are allowed to admire your own dog. He is the best after all!

When you are anxious about making mistakes, you can comfort yourself with the fact that most judges see and recognize a soundly built dog with a good character!

Shows mean to me not only exhibiting my dog. They are also training days. Work is important for the toller. It is also important that they are socially stable. Small exercises, outside-play and a corner to take it easy make the day interesting. Big international shows are unfortunately not optimal for dogs, but we have many good memories from smaller retriever shows.