Beginner’s Guide: How to Get Started in Dog Shows

Dog shows can be a thrilling experience for any dog owner. Not only do they offer an opportunity to showcase your beloved pet, but they also provide a chance to meet fellow dog enthusiasts and learn about the different breeds. However, getting started in dog shows can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process, from finding the right show to preparing your dog for competition. By the end of it, you’ll have all the information you need to confidently enter and participate in your first dog show.

Understand the different dog show categories

Each dog show category can be a mystery, but with a little research and understanding, anyone can learn the differences between them.

One of the most common categories is the conformation category, which judges dogs based on their appearance and how closely they match their breed’s standards.

Another category is the obedience category, which judges dogs on their ability to complete certain tasks and follow commands.

The agility category tests a dog’s speed and agility in completing an obstacle course, while the field trials category judges dogs on their hunting abilities.

Last but not least, there is the herding category, which tests a dog’s ability to herd livestock.

Understanding each category can help you decide which one is best for your dog and help you prepare for future shows.

Research dog breeds and their standards

Researching dog breeds and their standards can be a fascinating and enriching experience. There are so many different breeds out there, each with its unique set of characteristics and traits. To get started, you could begin by exploring the various breed groups recognized by organizations like the American Kennel Club, such as the sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding groups. Once you’ve narrowed down your focus, you can delve deeper into the specific standards for each breed within that group, looking at factors such as size, coat color and type, temperament, and more. By doing your research, you’ll be able to gain a better understanding of the different types of dogs out there and what makes each one special.

BREED	PHYSICAL APPEARANCE	TEMPERAMENT	UNIQUE TRAITS	HISTORY/ORIGIN	HEALTH CONCERNS
Labrador Retriever	Sturdy, medium to large build, short coat in black, yellow or chocolate	Friendly, outgoing, eager to please	Water-resistant coat, webbed toes, love of swimming	Originally bred for retrieving game	Hip dysplasia, obesity, ear infections
German Shepherd	Large, muscular build with medium-length coat in black and tan, sable, or all black	Loyal, protective, intelligent	Excellent working and obedience dog, known for their ability to learn commands quickly	Developed in Germany for herding and guarding sheep	Hip dysplasia, bloat, allergies
Golden Retriever	Medium to large build, long golden coat	Friendly, intelligent, loyal	Excellent family pet and service dog, love of retrieving objects	Originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game	Hip dysplasia, cancer, skin allergies
Bulldog	Medium to large build, short wrinkled face, thick-set body	Friendly, calm, stubborn	Known for their distinctive appearance and loyalty to their owners	Originally bred in England for bull-baiting	Breathing difficulties, hip dysplasia, skin allergies
Beagle	Medium-sized build, short coat in tricolor or bi-color	Friendly, outgoing, stubborn	Excellent scent hound, known for their love of tracking scents	Originally bred in England for hunting rabbits	Obesity, ear infections, hip dysplasia
Boxer	Medium to large build, short coat in fawn or brindle	Friendly, energetic, loyal	Excellent guard dog, known for their playful and outgoing nature	Originally bred in Germany for hunting and guarding	Cancer, hip dysplasia, heart problems
Dachshund	Small to medium-sized build, short legs, long body, short coat in various colors and patterns	Friendly, curious, stubborn	Excellent scent hound, known for their love of digging	Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers	Back problems, obesity, dental issues
Poodle	Medium to large-sized build, curly coat in various colors	Intelligent, loyal, active	Excellent show dog and service dog, known for their hypoallergenic coat	Originally bred in Germany and France as a water retriever	Hip dysplasia, eye problems, skin allergies
Yorkshire Terrier	Small-sized build, long silky coat in blue and tan	Confident, curious, energetic	Excellent lap dog and companion, known for their small size and lively personality	Originally bred in England for catching rats	Dental issues, hypoglycemia, tracheal collapse
Shih Tzu	Small-sized build, long silky coat in various colors	Friendly, outgoing, affectionate	Excellent lap dog and companion, known for their small size and love of attention	Originally bred in China as a companion dog	Breathing difficulties, eye problems, dental issues
Chihuahua	Small-sized build, short coat in various colors	Lively, loyal, bold	Excellent lap dog and companion, known for their small size and big personality	Originally bred in Mexico as a companion dog	Dental issues, patellar luxation, heart problems
Rottweiler	Large, muscular build, short coat in black with tan markings	Loyal, confident, protective	Excellent guard dog and working dog, known for their strength and loyalty	Originally bred in Germany for herding and guarding	Hip dysplasia, bloat, cancer
Siberian Husky	Medium to large-sized build, thick double coat in various colors	Friendly, energetic, independent	Excellent working dog and sled dog, known for their endurance and love of running	Originally bred in Siberia for sled pulling	Hip dysplasia, eye problems, allergies
Doberman Pinscher	Large, muscular build, short coat in black, red, or blue	Loyal, intelligent, alert	Excellent guard dog and working dog, known for their agility and trainability	Originally bred in Germany for guarding and protection	Hip dysplasia, heart problems, cancer
Great Dane	Extra large build, short coat in various colors	Friendly, patient, gentle	Excellent family pet and guard dog, known for their size and presence	Originally bred in Germany for hunting and guarding	Hip dysplasia, bloat, heart problems

Find local dog shows or kennel clubs

Are you a dog lover looking to get involved in the world of dog shows? One of the first steps is finding a local dog show or kennel club. But where do you even begin? The process can feel overwhelming at first, with so many different options and locations to consider. It’s important to do your research and find a club or show that aligns with your interests and goals. This may involve attending a few events, speaking with other dog enthusiasts, and exploring different online resources. But don’t worry, with some persistence and dedication, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect local dog show or kennel club for you and your furry friend.

DOG SHOW NAME	LOCATION	DATE	KENNEL CLUB
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show	New York, NY	February	Westminster Kennel Club
AKC National Championship Presented by Royal Canin	Orlando, FL	December	American Kennel Club
National Dog Show Presented by Purina	Philadelphia, PA	November	Kennel Club of Philadelphia
The Great Western Terrier Association of Southern California	Long Beach, CA	May	Great Western Terrier Association
Golden Gate Kennel Club Dog Show	San Francisco, CA	January	Golden Gate Kennel Club
Houston World Series of Dog Shows	Houston, TX	July	Houston Kennel Club
Boston Terrier Club of America National Specialty	Louisville, KY	October	Boston Terrier Club of America
American Whippet Club National Specialty	Oklahoma City, OK	April	American Whippet Club
Chihuahua Club of America National Specialty	St. Louis, MO	September	Chihuahua Club of America
Labrador Retriever Club National Specialty	Westminster, MD	October	Labrador Retriever Club
American Rottweiler Club National Specialty	Kissimmee, FL	April	American Rottweiler Club
American Foxhound Club National Specialty	Syracuse, NY	May	American Foxhound Club
Pekingese Club of America National Specialty	Las Vegas, NV	April	Pekingese Club of America
American Spaniel Club National Specialty	West Springfield, MA	July	American Spaniel Club
Bulldog Club of America National Specialty	Louisville, KY	September	Bulldog Club of America

Attend a dog show and observe

Attending a dog show can be an overwhelming experience, especially if it’s your first time.

As you walk through the gates and into the arena, your senses are immediately bombarded with sights, sounds, and smells that you may have never encountered before.

The cacophony of barks and yips from the dogs, the hustle and bustle of the handlers, and the excited chatter of the spectators all combine to create an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and intimidating.

But don’t let that stop you from observing and learning. Take a deep breath, find a comfortable spot, and simply watch.

Observe how the dogs move, how the handlers interact with them, and how the judges evaluate their performance.

Pay attention to the different breeds, sizes, and colors, and try to identify their unique characteristics.

As you watch, you may start to notice patterns and trends. You may see that certain breeds tend to perform better than others, or that some handlers have a particular style or technique that sets them apart.

You may also notice that the judges have specific criteria that they use to evaluate the dogs, such as movement, conformation, and temperament.

By observing a dog show, you can gain a better understanding of what it takes to compete and succeed in this world.

You can also get a sense of the camaraderie and community that exists among the participants and enthusiasts.

So, take the opportunity to attend a dog show and observe. You may be surprised at what you can learn.

OBSERVATION POINT	NOTES
Judging Process	Observe how judges evaluate each dog's breed characteristics, movement, and behavior.
Dog Breeds	Take note of the different breeds present and their characteristics.
Dog Show Etiquette	Observe how handlers and owners interact with their dogs, judges, and spectators.
Show Preparation	Take note of how handlers prepare their dogs for the show. Observe grooming techniques, training methods, and handling skills.
Competition Levels	Take note of the different competition levels and how the dogs are judged.
Awards and Prizes	Take note of the awards and prizes given to the winning dogs.

Prepare your dog for a dog show

Preparing your dog for a dog show can be an exciting but challenging task. To ensure your dog is ready to compete, there are several things you need to do. First, start by researching the breed standard and requirements for the specific dog show you plan to enter. This will help you understand what the judges will be looking for and how to properly groom and train your dog.

Next, focus on socializing your dog with other dogs and people. This will help your dog feel comfortable and confident in different environments, which is essential for success in a dog show. You can start by taking your dog to obedience classes, dog parks, and other social events.

Another important aspect of preparing your dog for a dog show is grooming. This includes bathing, brushing, and trimming your dog’s coat, as well as clipping their nails and cleaning their ears. You should also practice handling and posing your dog, so they are comfortable and respond well during the judging process.

Finally, don’t forget to practice with your dog before the show. This includes practicing their obedience skills, as well as practicing the specific routines and movements required during the dog show. With proper preparation and practice, your dog can be ready to compete and shine in a dog show!

Train your dog to walk on a leash

You may think that training your dog to walk on a leash is an easy task, but it can be quite challenging.

Start by choosing the right type of leash and collar, as this will greatly affect your dog’s behavior.

It’s important to keep your dog on a short leash at first, as this will help you maintain control and prevent pulling. However, you should also give your dog some freedom to explore and sniff around. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior and discourage bad habits. Be patient and consistent in your training, as it may take some time for your dog to learn how to walk on a leash properly. Remember that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another, so be prepared to adjust your training methods as needed. With time and patience, you and your furry friend can enjoy peaceful walks together.

Teach your dog basic obedience commands

Training your dog in basic obedience commands is crucial for their development and to build a stronger bond between you and your furry friend. But teaching your dog these commands can be quite perplexing at times, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. It’s important to start with simple commands such as ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘come’, and ‘down’. Burstiness is key during training sessions, so make sure to mix up the commands and practice in different locations to keep your dog engaged and attentive. Additionally, keeping the predictability of your training sessions low can help prevent boredom and keep your dog’s brain active. Remember to always use positive reinforcement, like treats and affection, to reward your dog for good behavior. By being patient and consistent, you can successfully teach your dog basic obedience commands and have a well-behaved and happy companion.

Groom your dog appropriately for a dog show

Preparing your pup for a dog show can be overwhelming and exciting at the same time. However, grooming your dog appropriately can be the difference between winning or losing. The first step is to ensure your dog is clean, with a shiny coat, trimmed nails, and clean ears. Brush their coat thoroughly, paying attention to tangles and mats. Consider bathing your dog a day or two before the show to ensure their coat is clean and shiny. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid irritating their skin. When it comes to trimming, leave it to the professionals or, if you are confident, use the right tools and techniques to ensure a clean and crisp appearance. Lastly, ensure your dog’s ears are clean and free of wax buildup. Gently clean them with a damp cloth or cotton ball and remove any excess hair. With attention to detail and proper grooming techniques, your dog will be ready to strut their stuff in no time!

STYLE	OVERVIEW	MAINTENANCE	SUITABLE BREEDS
Poodle Continental	The coat is shaved close on the hindquarters, belly, and legs, and left longer on the head, tail, and upper body.	High – requires frequent grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Poodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Schnauzer	The coat is trimmed short on the body, legs, and belly, and left longer on the head, eyebrows, and beard.	Moderate – requires grooming every 6-8 weeks.	Schnauzer, West Highland White Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier	The coat is long and sleek, parted down the middle of the back, with hair on the head tied up in a topknot.	High – requires daily brushing and grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso
Bichon Frise	The coat is fluffy and curly all over, with a rounded head and a short, trimmed snout.	High – requires frequent grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Bichon Frise, Poodle, Coton de Tulear, Havanese
Golden Retriever	The coat is thick and fluffy, with feathering around the ears, legs, chest, and tail.	Moderate – requires regular brushing and occasional grooming every 8-12 weeks.	Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Cocker Spaniel	The coat is long and silky, with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and belly.	High – requires daily brushing and grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, American Water Spaniel, Boykin Spaniel
Shih Tzu	The coat is long and silky, with hair on the head tied up in a topknot.	High – requires daily brushing and grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier
Afghan Hound	The coat is long and flowing, with feathering on the legs, ears, and tail.	High – requires frequent grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Afghan Hound, Saluki, Borzoi, Scottish Deerhound
Poodle English Saddle	The coat is shaved close on the hindquarters, legs, and belly, and left longer on the head, ears, neck, chest, and tail.	High – requires frequent grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Poodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Chinese Crested	The coat is either hairless or with a crest of long, flowing hair on the head, tail, and feet.	Moderate – requires occasional grooming every 8-12 weeks.	Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli, Peruvian Inca Orchid, American Hairless Terrier
Portuguese Water Dog	The coat is curly and woolly all over, with a distinctive topknot.	High – requires frequent grooming every 4-6 weeks.	Portuguese Water Dog, Poodle, Bichon Frise, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Dalmatian	The coat is short and dense, with black or liver spots on a white background.	Low – requires occasional grooming every 8-12 weeks.	Dalmatian, Pointer, English Setter, Weimaraner
Great Pyrenees	The coat is long and thick, with a dense undercoat and a mane around the neck.	High – requires regular brushing and occasional grooming every 8-12 weeks.	Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog
Standard Schnauzer	The coat is wiry and short on the body, legs, and belly, and longer on the eyebrows and beard.	Moderate – requires grooming every 6-8 weeks.	Standard Schnauzer, Giant Schnauzer, Miniature Schnauzer
Bernese Mountain Dog	The coat is long and thick, with a dense undercoat and rust-colored markings on a black base.	High – requires regular brushing and occasional grooming every 8-12 weeks.	Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Great Pyrenees

Enter your first dog show and have fun

Entering your first dog show can be an exciting but intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and a positive attitude, you can have a great time showcasing your beloved pooch. Make sure to research the rules and requirements of the show in advance, such as registration deadlines and necessary documentation. Choose the right class for your dog’s size, age, and breed, and practice your handling and grooming skills beforehand. Show day can be chaotic and nerve-wracking, so take deep breaths and focus on having fun with your furry friend. Remember that every participant has a different level of experience and skill, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t win any ribbons. Instead, use the opportunity to learn from the judges’ feedback and connect with other dog lovers. Who knows, your first dog show might be the start of a lifelong passion for canine competitions!

Learn from the judges’ feedback and improve

Have you ever felt frustrated after a dog show, wondering what you could have done differently to place better? One of the best ways to improve is to learn from the judges’ feedback. The feedback may not always be what you want to hear, but it can provide valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your dog. The key is to approach the feedback with an open mind and a willingness to improve. Take notes on what the judge says and use it to create a plan for future shows. Practice the areas where your dog needs improvement and showcase the areas where your dog excels. With hard work and dedication, you may see your dog’s performance improve and your show placements rise.

What is a dog show?

A dog show is a competitive event where dogs are evaluated and judged based on their conformation to breed standards.

How can I find a dog show near me?

You can check the AKC’s website for a list of upcoming dog shows in your area.

What should I bring to a dog show?

You should bring your dog’s registration papers, a leash and collar, grooming tools, and any necessary food or treats.

Can any dog participate in a dog show?

No, only purebred dogs that are registered with a recognized kennel club can participate in dog shows.

What are some tips for preparing my dog for a dog show?

You should make sure your dog is well-groomed, well-socialized, and well-trained. You should also practice stacking and gaiting with your dog to help them look their best in the show ring.

How are dogs judged in a dog show?

Dogs are judged based on their conformation to breed standards, which includes their physical appearance, movement, and temperament.

In conclusion, getting started in dog shows requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and patience. It is important to do your research, find a reputable breeder, and choose a breed that you are passionate about. Practice and training are essential, and you should always strive to present your dog in the best possible way. With these tips, you can embark on an exciting journey in the world of dog shows and create many cherished memories with your furry friend.