Showing dogs: Getting started

14
Apr
2009

Chow chows are popular show dogs
(c) Flickr Ozulus

Showing dogs has become popular for dog owners worldwide, and dedicated followers travel extensively showing their dogs.

Dog showing, a great British pastime, attracts a large following and has come a long way since its first inauguration in 1859. In 1873 The Kennel Club (KC) was founded, and when it began to regulate dog shows, the scene really started to take off.

So how can you get involved in showing your dog? It is easy to take the first steps into the showing world. Let’s say you have bought a puppy and plan to show him.

The first step is attending ‘ringcraft’ classes, where you will learn the basics of ring training and your puppy can be socialised with other dogs and people. Next you join the Breed Club for your chosen breed and learn how to prepare your dog for exhibition.

Don’t be baffled by the number of categories and shows available to you. The first question you should ask is whether you want to enter a single breed show, or a general multi-breed show that runs classes for several breeds of dog. Single breed shows are organised by the Breed Club and are a good place to start, as many of the exhibitors will be experienced and able to offer you guidance with your dog type.

Shows are either Restricted (limited, for example, to members of the club hosting the show) or Non-restricted (open to everyone).

At the Open Shows you will find many other novice handlers and their various dogs. Anyone can enter and these shows and they are attended and organised by experienced dog owners who are happy to help those just starting out.

Open Shows can schedule over 20 classes for each breed and as a new exhibitor you should enter the beginners’ classes.

On the day, make sure your dog is looking his best – he should be bathed, groomed and clipped if necessary. It is also important that you wear appropriate clothing that is relatively smart and compliments your dog’s appearance.

Once in the ring, the judge will examine your dog and look at his conformation and movement. Once the judge has looked at all the exhibits in the class, having judged them against the official Breed Standard - which basically describes the ideal specimen for that given breed - and seen them move around the ring, the dogs will be lined up in order of merit.

Championship Shows are the most prestigious shows and Kennel Club Challenge Certificates are on offer. Challenge Certificates - CCs - are the highest award achievable. If a dog wins three CCs it is entitled to be called a Champion. These types of shows tend to attract the largest entries.