Ring Craft Training Near Me? Top Answer Update

Show dogs are typically bred and raised to compete—but are they good pets? You may be surprised to learn that many show dogs start out as beloved family pets! Of course, not all doggos have what it takes to bring the band home.

Thinking about adopting a retired show dog or buying a puppy that didn’t quite make it? Let’s explore 3 reasons why show dogs make good pets, plus a few things to consider before opening your home to a canine competitor.

Show dogs receive the best care in their class

Whether your dog is a conformation champion, sports star, or show dog, you can rest assured that he has received the best “paw-paw” care of his entire life! Breeders and handlers invest a great deal of time and money in grooming their dogs before they are even born. Show dogs receive first class veterinary care, daily grooming, professional training and quality food. Dogs that compete in sport shows are fed special, nutrient-dense diets to optimize their performance. “Pawpula” diets include Royal Canin and Eukanuba. Both brands offer recipes specifically designed for dog athletes. The exercise program of a show dog also depends on the needs of its breed. Some breeds, like Chihuahuas, thrive on a few short walks a day. Other breeds, like boxers, need variety. Responsible breeders and handlers offer a range of activities to stimulate their puppies’ minds and bodies.

Show dogs are well trained

It’s safe to say that show dogs have mastered several tricks in the dog training manual! While all show dogs have a solid grasp of the basics of socialization and obedience, they also learn specific commands depending on the type of show they are entering. Dogs competing in conformation shows (aka breed shows) must master gait training and stacking. Gait refers to a dog’s running patterns and speeds. Every breed has a gait standard – show dogs are judged on their ability to meet that standard. Stacking refers to standing poses. Each race has its own stacking standard. Dogs that participate in dog sports also learn commands specific to that sport. For example, those who compete in rally obedience shows learn to slow down, speed up, and change direction on cue. Herding dogs also learn special commands like “get up,” “goodbye,” and “stay away.”

Show dogs get along well with people and other dogs

If you consider yourself a socialite, a retired show dog could be the right choice for you. Show dogs are used to busy environments with lots of people and other dogs. Competitors at breed shows are also used to being handled by strangers, so you probably don’t have to worry about your fur baby nibbling on one of your houseguests. The same applies to sport show dogs, who often complete tests in a team with other dogs.

Things to consider before buying or adopting a show dog

Sure, show dogs can make great pets. On the other hand, caring for a show dog, retired or not, isn’t exactly a walk in the dog park. Here’s what you need to consider before buying or adopting a show dog. Not All Dog Breeders Use Positive Training Methods Search any showdog blog and you will likely find eyewitness accounts of show dogs being trained using negative reinforcement methods. Studies show that negative reinforcement training increases stress in dogs and has a long-term impact on their health. While most breeders treat their show dogs like family pets and even royalty, not all breeders are created equal. For more information, see our article on finding a reputable breeder. Purebred dogs have more health problems than mixed breeds A long history of inbreeding has narrowed the gene pool and increased the risk of birth defects in purebred dogs. Purebred puppies are more likely to develop conditions such as dilated cardiomyopathy, cataracts, and epilepsy. In addition to the upfront cost of purchasing a show dog, pet insurance and veterinary care can quickly become expensive. Contracts are an integral part of caring for a show dog. When it comes to selling their show quality puppies and adopting their retired show dogs, breeders are very picky. Trusted breeders want to know about you and tour your home. Many breeders expect to keep the breeding rights to the dog, some even request co-ownership. If you plan to show the dog, you will likely need to sign a show contract with your breeder. If you don’t plan on competing with your dog, opt for a pet-quality dog ​​instead. Sport show dogs can have high prey drives. Beagles and coonhounds that participate in field trials are trained to follow the scent of prey such as rabbits and raccoons. These scent work trials do not require dogs to actually hunt the game and no animals are harmed. However, if you plan on adopting a dog that has been trained in scent work, never let them off the leash, especially at a wildlife sanctuary or similar location. Clever Beagles can also escape a fence in pursuit of prey, so always supervise them outdoors.

Are show dogs good pets? Wrap up

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This document was prepared for you by the American Kennel Club to help you understand the points schedule and how championship points are counted. Learn more about conformation here.

The American Kennel Club requires a dog to have two major wins (a major win is worth three points or more) totaling 15 points to be a champion. The Majors must be won under different judges and at least one other judge must award some of the remaining points – so you must win under at least three different judges.

You will see how to calculate the points when your dog or bitch wins Winners Class, Best of Winners, Best of Opposite Sex or Best of Breed.

Winning Dog — WD

Champion bitch — WB

Best of Breed – BOB

The best of the opposite sex – BOS

Best of Winner – BOW

How to get points for Winners Dog and Winners Bitch

In the show catalog you will see a points table for your breed, which will look something like this:

Keep in mind that points schedules vary by venue. If you are not at the show, be sure to get the points schedule for the event region where your dog won. See point table.

To calculate your points, count the dogs that compete in the regular classes of your dog’s gender. Then compare that number to the point plan in your catalogue.

Winning dog — WD (3 dogs = 2 points)

Winner bitch — WB (4 bitches = 3 points)

TIPS: When counting dogs in competition, only count dogs present that are being judged. Dogs that are disqualified, released, excused or withheld of all awards do not count. Also, any class dog that advances to Best of Breed is counted as a champion, not a class dog.

Check the posted copies of the judges’ book before leaving the show to ensure your dog has been marked as a winner. Mistakes happen! Also, verify that your dog’s AKC registration number is correct in the catalog. If it is incorrect, inform the superintendent before leaving the show. In either case, it’s easier to fix on the day of the show than later.

This is how you determine points if your class dog or bitch is Best of Breed

Count regular class dogs to your sex, plus all climbers and champions of both sexes entered in the Best of Breed competition. Absences don’t count.

WD becomes BOB (3 class dogs + 3 champions = 6 dogs for 5 points)

WB becomes BOB (4 class bitches + 3 champions = 7 bitches for 5 points)

TIPS: Veteran dogs or other non-regular class dogs will not be counted when determining points.

How to determine if your class dog or bitch is performing best of the opposite sex

Count class dogs in your sex plus all champions & climbers, same sex only, competing for Best of Breed.

WD goes BOS (3 class dogs + 2 champion dogs = 5 dogs for 4 points)

WB goes BOS (4 class bitches + 1 champion bitch = 5 bitches for 4 points)

How to determine points for Best of Winner

Count the points first for Winners Dog, then for Winners Bitch. Whoever is awarded the Best of Winner receives the highest number.

WD goes BOW over WB (2 points males and 3 points females = 3 points for BOW)

WB goes BOW over WD (2 points males and 3 points females = 3 points for BOW)

TIPS: You only get the highest score – you cannot combine the points of dogs and bitches.

Example: WD gets 2 points and BOW gets 3 points. The award is 3 points, not 5 points.

It is important when a class male or bitch is awarded BOS to determine these points before determining BOW.

How to determine if the best-of winner gets a point

If neither gender had enough competitors to qualify for a point and the gender total equals or exceeds the number required for a point in its gender, the Best of Winner will receive 1 point.

WD or WB goes BOW (0 points for males and 0 points for females = 1 point for BOW)

Tips: With the above method, you can only get 1 point on a show.

sample

Work through the following examples and check that your answers are correct. We’ve put together a sample judge sheet to help you understand some of the possibilities.

WD (3 points)

WB (4 points)

WD becomes BOB (5 points)

WB becomes BOB (5 points)

WD becomes BOS (5 points)

WB becomes BOS (5 points)

WD goes BOW over WB (4 points)

WB goes BOW over WD (4 points)

WD goes BOW, WB goes BOS – points for WD are (5 points)

We hope that the above has helped you understand the scoring system and thus contributed to your enjoyment of dog shows.

Now go to the points board and work through the above scenarios for your race.

If you have additional questions, please refer to Chapter 16, Section 1, Dog Show Rules.

Pattern work is where exhibitors are asked to do one of the following patterns to show the movement of the dog. It will always be the judge’s preference when it comes to asking for sample work. Below is a list of patterns commonly used in the show ring.

The triangle

This is the most common shape used in the ring as it shows your dog’s back, side and front movement. Start with your dog in front of the judge with your dog’s leash in your left hand, making sure your dog is in line with you, move in a straight diagonal line towards the right corner of the ring when you Reach the corner, make a clean left and follow the back edge of the ring straight. When moving your dog, don’t stop at the corner, slow down to create a flowing sharp turn, always encourage your dog with voice commands. When you reach the left corner of the ring, turn left again, making the last diagonal straight line back to the judge.

The straight up and down

This is another commonly used pattern. Position your dog in front of the judge’s feet and you are directly to the right, with your dog’s leash in your left hand. Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on something you want to aim for to create the perfect straight line. Walk in a straight line to the end of the ring, turn around and walk straight back towards the judge.

The circle

This can be requested by the judge at any time during the class but is mainly used at the beginning or end of a class to compare dogs. With your dog’s leash in your left hand, walk to the right (counterclockwise around the ring) and follow the ring all the way around the edge, stopping once you regain your place in the ring. You may be asked to complete more than one circuit, so listen to what the judge asks. If asked to move around the ring with other dogs, don’t get too close to the dog in front of you – keep a comfortable distance so you can move your dog at the right speed.

A dog show is a competitive dog sport where purebred dogs are presented and judged for compliance with their respective breed standards. Some people view dog shows as “canine beauty pageants,” while others view them as an essential step in the improvement of any breed.

Why are there dog shows?

Dog shows, also known as “conformation tests” or “breed shows”, are intended to show purebred dogs with the ideal characteristics of their respective breed. These standards are set by each breed’s official parent association and are maintained by organizations such as the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain and even improve each breed so that future lines remain of the highest quality.

Dog show judges determine the best specimens of each dog breed. Many dog ​​breeders prefer to breed dogs that have competed in dog shows so that the puppies have the most desirable traits of this dog breed. These puppies are often healthier, more desirable, and worth more money.

What happens during a dog show?

At conformation shows, the dogs are presented in the ring by their handlers. The handler may or may not be the dog’s owner. Dog owners often hire professional handlers to show their dogs. Dog handlers generally have a lot of experience with dog shows and know how to make the dogs look their best in the show ring.

In the ring, the dogs are judged by knowledgeable and experienced pedigree dog experts. These judges look at the physical attributes, movement/gait and temperament of the dogs. Then they determine which dogs come closest to their respective breed standards.

Dog Show Awards

At a dog show, the dogs first compete against each other with dogs of the same breed. The winner receives the title of Best of Breed and competes for Best of Group. Groups are races that share similar characteristics. The AKC divides dog breeds into seven groups:

herding

hunting dogs

Not athletic

Athletic

terrier

toys

To work

Other kennel clubs have similar types of groups.

Best in Group winners continue to compete for Best in Show where a final champion dog is determined.

Champion dogs are considered better breeding stock than non-champion dogs because they have been shown to be ideal specimens of their breed. Because of this, their offspring tend to have a higher monetary value.

At most dog shows, multiple placements are awarded:

Best of Breed is the title given to the dog that best represents its breed standard according to the judge of that round. During this round dogs are shown with others of the same breed.

is the title given to the dog that best represents its breed standard according to the judge of that round. During this round dogs are shown with others of the same breed. Best in Variety is awarded instead of Best in Breed when a breed of dog has multiple varieties of the same breed. An example is the poodle, which has miniature, standard, and toy varieties.

is awarded in place of Best in Breed when a breed of dog has multiple varieties of the same breed. An example is the poodle, which has miniature, standard, and toy varieties. Best of Opposite is awarded to a dog of the opposite sex as Best of Breed or Best in Variety that best represents the same breed as determined by the same judge. This suggests that the pair is ideal for breeding.

will be awarded to a dog of the opposite sex of Best of Breed or Best in Variety that best represents the same breed as determined by the same judge. This suggests that the pair is ideal for breeding. Best in Show designates the overall winner of the dog show. This dog will be selected from all Best in Group winners at that show. Best in Show is the highest award in a stud dog show.

designates the overall winner of the dog show. This dog will be selected from all Best in Group winners at that show. Best in Show is the highest award in a stud dog show. Merit Awards may be given, at the judge’s discretion, to outstanding entries that did not win Best of Breed or Best in Show.

Matthew Palmer/Getty Images

Dog show terminology

Whether or not you’re a fan of dog shows, you may have heard a few terms that have you guessing. Some of them may be easy to understand, others are not so obvious. Here are some of the terms commonly used in dog shows, with explanations of what they mean:

Allrounder refers to a show judge who is authorized to judge all breeds.

Baits are items used to attract and maintain a dog’s attention in the show ring, such as B. a treat or a toy. Some shows do not allow the use of bait.

Benched Show (or Bench Show) refers to a dog show where dogs are assigned to separate benches when not in the show ring. Viewers can approach each bench to learn more about the dog. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the few bench shows in the United States.

Bitch is the term used to describe an intact bitch (not spayed). An intact male is simply referred to as a dog.

The breed standard is a written description of the ideal physical, functional, and temperamental characteristics of a particular breed. This is the standard by which all dogs of this breed are judged. The breed standard is established and enforced by the parent club for each breed.

Champion (Ch.) is a title given to a dog that has earned a certain number of points at AKC shows.

Conformation describes a dog’s structure and physical characteristics and how well they meet the breed standard. Dog shows are also often called conformation shows.

Mother refers to the mother of a litter of puppies.

Dog is used in the dog show world to describe an intact male dog (not neutered). An intact female dog is called a bitch.

Gait refers to the movement of the dog and can also be referred to as “action”. A competing dog’s gait is judged as the dogs walk and run around the ring. This helps indicate correct or incorrect structure and conformation.

Handler means the person who leads the dog into the ring. This is not always the dog’s owner; it is often a professional handler who is paid to show dogs. An excellent trader is paid well, as good performance can make the difference between winning and losing.

Stack refers to the position in which a dog stands while being shown. Certain dog breeds have their own special positions. Most breeds stand with all four paws aligned.

Flynn, a Bichon Frize, was crowned Best In Show, the most prestigious title awarded at the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City on February 13th. Flynn beat six other group champions and more than 2,800 other dogs for the title. To celebrate, he took home the Westminster Legend Trophy and a polished pewter gallery bowl, among other rewards. What is missing in the price package is: a monetary compensation. Winning the show isn’t really lucrative. In fact, few dog shows offer cash prizes. But many participants still believe that the events are worthwhile and that there is nothing that can beat the feeling of victory. At dog shows, a successful night “is absolutely unforgettable and brings tears to your eyes,” Glen VanDerHart, an owner who competed in Westminster with his Puli Blu, told CNBC Make It.

Best in Show winner Flynn, a Bichon Frize, poses for photos at the conclusion of the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at The Piers on February 13, 2018 in New York City. Drew Angerer | Getty Images

While some best-in-show recipients can earn huge prizes, such as the $50,000 offered by the AKC National Championship, dog show competitors generally don’t focus on getting rich. But competition is also expensive. “Depending on the number of shows you attend, it could be tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands,” says VanDerHart. Personally, he estimates that he spends a few thousand dollars a year showing his dogs. Sharon Fremer, the owner of a five-year-old Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Houston, says the same thing. She estimates that she invests around $7,000 a year in Houston travel, care and exhibitions.

Costs can vary wildly depending on how much owners are able and willing to spend. In the run-up to a major competition like Westminster, top competitors typically do a year-long “campaign” to generate interest in their dog. This can add up to more than $250,000 when you combine the costs of travel, entrance fees, and a professional handler, as handlers are common and range from $100 to $300 or more per show, depending on your level of experience. When Jeanine Dell’Orfano travels with her Bergamasco Sheepdog Faggia, she works alongside professional handler Amanda Shea from Sheaman Kennels. Shea’s fees vary, according to her website: For all-breed shows, she charges around $100, but for Westminster and other elite national competitions, that price increases to $300-$500.

Faggia, a Bergamasco Shepherd, is groomed at the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Monday, February 12, 2018 in New York, USA. Bloomberg | Getty Images

Grooming costs also vary by breed. While Fremer describes her Corgi as “wash-and-wear” compared to other breeds, VanDerHart takes a long time to clean and dry his Puli’s cords. He grooms his dogs himself and says the most expensive part of grooming the breed’s dreadlock-like coat is the conditioner, which costs about $25 a bottle. VanDerHart uses two bottles per dog per wash, as well as an arsenal of other products. “If you’re using quality products, you’re paying quality money,” he says. One of the biggest costs associated with shows isn’t dog-specific at all: it’s the price of traveling to out-of-town shows. Between transportation and hotel fees, travel expenses can add up quickly, especially for owners who travel frequently.

I have a connection to all my animals. For me it’s teamwork. It’s about connecting with him. Something works. Sharon Fremer owner of Houston, a corgi

Yet despite this spate of spending, many owners remain resolute, even without showing a clear route to recoup their investment. Why do they choose to take the tedious steps of preparation, training, and traveling with pets? First and foremost, it’s about passion. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved dogs,” says Fremer. “As a kid, I stole people’s cats and dogs and brought them home and hid them in my mom’s laundry room. I have a connection to all my animals. For me it’s teamwork. It’s about bonding with him, something.” VanDerHart appreciates the quality time he spends with Blu. He likens the experience of showing dogs to that of parents watching their children achieve academic success. “There’s no prize money for the kid who does well in school, but you’re proud that the kid does well,” he says.

A competitor seen grooming her dog before the competitions started. The Westminster Kennel Club’s 142nd Annual Dog Show in New York. SOPA images | Getty Images

collect points

A dog begins its show career by competing to become a “champion.” To earn an AKC Championship title (and be able to put Ch. in front of his/her name), the dog must earn 15 points at AKC shows. Points are earned by defeating other dogs of the same sex and breed in classes held specifically for non-champions. Breed points used to determine national rankings are recorded by the AKC and are based on the number of dogs defeated. For each dog defeated at a dog show, the other dog gets one breeding point. The country’s top dogs easily have more than 50,000 points in one year.

TRAINING A SHOW DOG: OVERVIEW

1. If you have a mixed breed dog, check out the Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America, which offer conformation, obedience, and rally competitions for mixed breeds.

2. Keep all of your training sessions with your show dog short and positive.

3. Use a high rate of reinforcement when teaching a new behavior. Gradually reinforce your dog with less food and more praise as he completes the tasks you are teaching him.

4. Read author Vicki Ronchette’s book, Positive Training for Show Dogs, for more details on training dogs for the show ring.

Sitting ringside at a large dog show recently, I saw a woman preparing to walk her Visla into the group ring. After watching for a few minutes I told a friend I thought the dog was clicker trained. There was something very revealing in the way the dog interacted with its handler that led me to believe that the dog was comfortable trying things to impress its handler. After speaking to the handler, I discovered that the dog was clicker trained and had in fact been fully trained using positive reinforcement methods. It’s always very exciting for me to see people using these methods for the show ring.

You don’t have to be a judge to recognize a show dog that loves what they do. A dog that genuinely loves to show off and enjoys what they do is obvious to even the untrained eye.

Dog Show Basics

Almost everyone has been to a dog show, or at least seen one on TV, but not everyone knows how they work or why they exist. The original purpose of dog shows was for breeders to have their breeding stock judged. Many breeders will not breed a dog until the dog has completed his championship. The dogs that most closely conform to the breed standard in structure and temperament are the most desirable.

The largest registry for purebred dogs is the American Kennel Club (AKC). Most dog shows in the United States are AKC shows. There is also a United Kennel Club (UKC) and a Mixed Breed Club of America where people can compete in conformation with their castrated or neutered mixed breeds. I recommend the Mixed Breed Dog Club to anyone interested in dog sport with their mixed breed. This organization allows mixed breeds to compete in conformation, obedience and rally. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to start showing.

Successful show dogs: what it takes

So what does it take to be successful and win at dog shows? Apart from the fact that the dog is a true representative of its breed, the dog must also enjoy its “job”. Part of what makes a successful show dog is showmanship. A show dog must be able to perform and appear to enjoy it. The only way I know of to maintain and increase enjoyment from this work is through positive reinforcement techniques.

An important piece of the puzzle of success is the relationship between dog and handler. In order for the dog to enjoy what it is doing and feel comfortable and relaxed in the ring, it must have a strong connection or relationship with the handler, whether the handler is their breeder, owner, or a professional handler. Positive reinforcement training can help strengthen this bond. Training methods that focus on positive reinforcement rather than physical punishment allow the dog to trust and feel safe with their handler; this in turn allows the dog to relax and enjoy strutting his stuff around the ring.

Clicker training and other positive training methods have found their way into many different areas of dog training, from teaching good manners to family dogs, to agility and rally competition training for professional dog athletes. The behaviors required for agility or obedience are much more complex than the behaviors required of a show dog. It is only logical that positive training should also find a place in show ring training. My goal is to make it the norm!

Positive reinforcement training can not only teach a dog the behaviors they need to perform in the ring, but also teach them in a way that the dog can have fun and enjoy. Positive training allows the dog to try and find out things without worrying about being physically punished in any way. That alone is incredibly powerful, especially when part of the end goal is a dog that looks like it’s having fun.

There are three basic behaviors a show dog must learn to do well. It must “walk”, “stack” and be examined. Walking means moving at the right speed and in the right position without pulling on the leash so the judge can assess how the dog is moving.

Stacking means he has to stay on the ground (if he’s a small dog, he’ll also have to learn to stand still on a table) so the judge can watch the dog and form an opinion of what the dog looks like and when stand still.

Finally, a show dog must be able to stand still and remain calm while a judge examines them. The judge actually has to put his hands on the dog to determine the overall structure of the dog. These things are not particularly challenging to teach. In fact, I’ve found them to be pretty easy using the clicker and other positive reinforcement techniques.

gear

In order to show off your dog’s exterior in the ring, you need a special combination of collar and leash.

For small dogs, I like to use a Resco all-in-one style collar with leash. The Resco is basically a sling with a slider that slides down to hold it in place where you want it on the dog’s neck. For medium or large sized dogs, I recommend a martingale-style collar that closes enough so that the dog’s head doesn’t slip out, but doesn’t tighten further like a choke collar would. There are all-in-one leash and collar martingales, or separate martingale collars that you can attach to a matching leash.

clicker training

I often use clicker training when working with show dogs. I see clicker training as sending non-emotional information to the dog. If your timing is good and your training plan is well thought out, you can use the clicker to clearly communicate to the dog exactly what you want from him.

How does this happen? The clicker tells the dog that what he was doing when he heard the click was the desired behavior and that a reward is coming.

In order for a dog to understand this, it takes a few training sessions to teach the dog the relevance of the clicker. You do this by simply clicking and then giving the dog a treat. Practice this about 10 times each session and then take a break. Make sure that you and the dog are not always in the same position or in the same place. You want him to learn that a click leads to a treat no matter what. Once you’ve done that, you can start training some behaviors.

Keep your workouts fairly short. Three minutes is enough time for a good session. Several short sessions throughout the day are enough to teach the show ring how to behave. It’s okay to teach a dog several new behaviors at the same stage of their training. However, it helps the dog if you work on each new behavior during its own separate training session. For example, work on the aisle and then take a break before moving on to stacking.

First behavior: walk

Walking a show dog might seem like a simple behavior, but when you think about it, it’s quite complex. You don’t just walk the dog. Rather, you are asking the dog to walk at a specific speed in a specific space in relation to your body. You don’t want the dog to pull on the leash, but you don’t want it to lag behind either. They need his tail and head to be carried in the correct position for his breed. You don’t want him sniffing the ground or watching you while he moves. Oh, and he has to look like he loves it! That’s asking a lot! You have to train in small increments to get there.

I usually start with the dog off the leash. I put some treats in my left hand and the clicker in my right hand. I tell the dog I have treats and then I walk away. I click to see if the dog comes along or if he even starts to come along. After clicking, I give him a treat on my left side, always with the dog’s head forward. I don’t want the reinforcer to be delivered with the dog’s head facing me. Unlike foot tracking, where you might want the dog to face the handler, with conformation we always want the dog’s head to face forward so the judge can always see the dog in profile.

Once the dog seems to understand what I’m rewarding him for and moves reliably next to me, I add the leash. At this point I place the treats in my right hand and the clicker and leash in my left hand. Be sure to pull the leash up so it doesn’t hang down distractingly.

Start walking again and click and reward immediately if the dog runs away with you – always give the treat with the dog’s head forward. If your dog pulls ahead, just say “Uh-oh!” or “Oops!” in an upbeat voice and go back to the starting point. On your next try, try to click and treat very soon – before the dog has a chance to pull. Click and treat frequently while he’s by your side. Don’t yank or jerk your dog’s neck; that won’t help him understand what you want, and it won’t teach him to like conformation play.

Once your dog has learned to move beside you without pulling, you can slowly “up your criteria” — that is, require him to do a little more before you give the click and treat. Adding changes is challenging, so just add one at a time. For example, if your dog is watching you and pulling as you move, you may need to ignore the fact that he is looking at you while you are teaching him not to pull. Once he stops dragging, you can only start clicking when his head is facing forward. Ask for small pieces at a time. This is really important because if you ask too much, your dog won’t understand and you’ll both be frustrated.

Once the dog is moving correctly, in the right position, and at the right speed, start clicking less often (lower the “Rate of Reinforcement”) until you’re mostly using your voice as reinforcement, with rare treats. At this point, I set this on cue or command, telling my dogs, “Let’s go!” just as we take off.

Stack

Stacking is the behavior where the dog stands in the correct position for its breed’s written standard. There are two types of stacking: free stacking and manual stacking. Free stacking is when the dog finds the position itself; While you might ask him to reposition a foot or two, don’t put your hands on the dog. When stacking by hand, you actually put the dog in the desired position.

Photo by Susan Joseph

The dog must be stacked a number of times each time it visits the show ring: immediately upon entering the ring; before moving them as a group; individually for the practical test by the judge; and at the end for lining up with the other dogs.

Small dogs are examined by the judge on a table, so they must learn to stack both on the floor and on a grooming table. Medium and large dogs are stacked on the floor. Some shorter but heavy breeds like Basset Hounds and Bulldogs may be examined on a ramp or lower larger table that they walk on. Many people only stack the dog for the judge’s exam and let the dog stack freely the other times.

Stack by hand

Do not use a clicker for hand stacking; It is too easy to click directly on the dog’s ear, which is not comfortable for the dog. Also, you will need both hands to hold the bait (treat) and reposition the dog. Small dogs are hand stacked on the table and medium and large dogs are hand stacked on the floor.

Start with a good piece of bait. When hand stacking, use baits that the dog can nibble on, such as B. a slice of dog food roll (tube food) or a piece of chicken breast. Position the dog so that it is standing sideways in front of you; You are on his right side. Hold the food safe and slightly protected in your right hand and let the dog nibble and chew small bits while you position his body with your left hand.

Whether you’re putting a small dog on the table or leading a large dog into a pile, always start with the dog’s front paws in the correct position; This way you only have to reposition the back feet. When positioning the front legs, move the legs at the elbows. When repositioning the hind legs, move the legs at the hock. Never reposition the dog’s legs by grabbing his feet. this almost always causes him to shift and reposition himself in ways you don’t want. When hand stacking, always gently run your hands over the dog and keep your hand on him, rather than pulling your hand away from his body and putting it back on, which can startle him and cause him to move. Once he’s in position, give him a final nibble and then give him a rest before starting over. Practice this until he is comfortable stacking by hand.

The next step will be teaching him to hold it. Stack him, then say “stay” and take the food away from his mouth for a moment. If he holds his position, say “Yes!” and give him a bite of bait. Repeat, slowly increasing the time it takes him to stay in position as he becomes comfortable holding the position.

Some dogs get overstimulated with a piece of food and do better when the food is not held by the mouth. For such a dog, put the treats on a nearby table. Lead him in front of you (or put him on the table if it’s a small dog), then put your right hand inside his collar and talk to him softly while repositioning his front legs; Then grab a treat, give it to him, and then let him rest.

Once he is comfortable with this, do the same, but then fix his hind paws as well. Gradually adapt this behavior to stack it, have it hold the position, and then get a treat.

Free stacking

Train this behavior like everything else in small steps. Start by getting some treats and your clicker. First click on whether your dog is standing, whether it is standing perfectly or not. If it persists, keep clicking and treating. Walk away and allow him to walk up to you and click and treat him before he has a chance to do anything else. Continue doing this until your dog offers the standing position. Do this until your dog gets up easily very frequently.

Next, teach your dog how to stack in the desired position. I like to teach the dog to “walk back” (which means “walk backwards and reposition the hind paws”) and “kick” (which means “step forward so that both front paws are next to each other”).

To teach Back Up, step slightly towards your dog and click and treat each shift in motion backwards. First, don’t expect a full “backup”; shape by clicking and reward increasingly correct, successive approximations to the reset behavior. Another way to teach backwards is to put the dog between two objects, such as a dog. B. the long, narrow space between your couch and coffee table to come at you and click and treat when he retreats. Once the dog can easily step back, say “Back” just as he steps back, then click and treat.

To teach “step,” I simply prompt the dog by stepping back slightly and clicking and treating as soon as he moves a front foot forward. Once he can do this easily, say “step” just before prompting him to do so.

In the end, free stacking will look like a dance with you and the dog. If he doesn’t stack perfectly, say “back” and reinforce that, or “step” and then reinforce that. When it’s finally the way you like it, say “stack” and then click and treat! If he holds it, click and treat him again. Give him plenty of boosts when he finds the right positioning.

Some people are of the opinion that show dogs should not be taught to sit because the dog will be sitting in the ring. This usually happens because owners practice sitting more than standing. If you reinforce standing a lot and make it very rewarding, there is no problem teaching both sitting and standing.

judge exam

Most social, well-adjusted dogs don’t mind the gentle treatment of a judge. However, you just need to make sure your dog is comfortable with people laying hands on him. Get him used to it as soon as possible. Make it part of your daily routine to put your hands all over your dog. Get him used to having his teeth checked. If you have a male dog, get him used to having his testicles touched. If you have a small breed that a judge can pick up (such as a Pekingese), get them used to it.

I like to let my dogs know what’s coming next by saying a word right before that part of the exam. Every time I examine my show dog’s bite, I say “mouth please!” so he knows it’s coming. I also do it in the ring to let him know that someone is about to look him in the mouth. Once your dog is comfortable with you doing these things, practice by having friends do the same. Remember to let your friends know to be gentle and respectful when examining your dog.

Good handlers make it look easy to show a dog. The truth is that the behaviors aren’t overly complex, but really taking the time to train them well will make your job – and your dog’s – so much easier and more enjoyable. Using positive reinforcement techniques will not only help the dog enjoy the training process, but also teach them to like the ring behavior in general.

Vicki Ronchette, CPDT, CAP2, is a dog trainer and behavior consultant specializing in positive reinforcement training for show dogs. She is the author of Positive Training for Show Dogs: Building a Relationship for Success and owns and operates Braveheart Dog Training in San Leandro, California.

He’s your best friend – and he’s pretty good-looking, if you do say so myself. You think he has what it takes to compete in a dog show, but where do you start? Here’s everything you need to know about showing your dog:

Learn the basics

First things first: the official term for dog shows is conformation—as in, the act of conforming or making conform. A dog show may look like a beauty pageant, but it’s not: dogs aren’t compared; They are judged on how closely they conform to the standard of their respective breed. Why? Because the closer a dog’s appearance is to the breed standard, the better the dog’s ability to produce puppies that conform to the standard. This is also the reason why mixed breeds and neutered or neutered purebreds are not eligible to participate.

Eligibility:

Six months or older on the day of the show

AKC recognized breed

Registered with the AKC

NOT spayed or neutered

No disqualifying faults as specified by their breed’s parent organization.

In good health and up-to-date on vaccinations.

The size of conformation events ranges from large shows for all breeds with over 3,000 dogs entered, to small shows by local specialty clubs showing just one breed. Each dog is exhibited (“treated”) by its owner, breeder or appointed professional (“Handler”). Most dogs compete for points toward their AKC championships. It takes 15 points to become an AKC Champion of Record. The maximum number of points awarded at an event is five. Males and females compete separately within their respective breeds. Learn more about the assessment process here.

Finally, see the AKC Sports Code to learn more about the core values ​​of AKC Sports and Events participants.

Attend a show in person

We cannot stress enough how important it is for you to familiarize yourself with what actually happens at a conformation event. Attend one or more shows and get acquainted with what is happening in the show ring and experience the energy and camaraderie between the spectators in the stands and the participants (also called “exhibitors”). It also gives you an idea of ​​whether you want to show your dog yourself or hire a professional (“handler”).

Join an AKC club near you

We encourage newcomers to get involved with their local AKC club. Not only do they offer invaluable resources and training courses, you will also meet new people with similar interests who are more than willing to share their knowledge and help.

Prepare your dog – and yourself

A conformation course prepares you and your dog for your first experiences—and your best chances of winning. Lessons are often conveniently held on weekdays and focus on how to handle your dog in the show ring. Contact a local AKC club to inquire about training opportunities.

In addition, your dog should know basic behaviors such as: B. Leash walking on the left side and stacking. He should also be very comfortable with other dogs. In addition to classes, we encourage you to visit dog parks to practice his socialization skills. Finally, before your first show, your pet should be well groomed – think trimmed nails, tangle-free coat and no dirt.

If you think you would be more comfortable hiring a professional trader, here’s how to hire one.

Try a match show

Wish you could do a practice run before you go to a real show? That’s what match shows are for. This is where you and your dog come together in an informal, educational show environment, meet other dog show enthusiasts and share stories. Another bonus? Experienced handlers, judges and other dog owners will give you the guidance and feedback you want before you actually step into the ring.

While it may seem like a lot to learn, remember that the goal here is for you and your dog to have fun together! Competitiveness doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you own a pedigree or a crossbreed, there are dog shows to suit all tastes across the country. They can be a lot of fun and you meet some nice like-minded people along the way. The following information is by no means concise and is intended only to provide a brief overview and introduction to dog showing.

So I suggest you sign up for more information on the Kennel Club website www.the-kennel-club.org.uk or contact them by phone on 0870 606 6750. You will also find the current rules and regulations there. I have always found them very helpful.

There are Companion Dog Shows, Open Dog Shows and Championship Dog Shows.

The Companion Dog Show

These shows sometimes take place in conjunction with a village festival, but not always. The classes held vary from pedigree classes (for pedigree dogs) from 6 months old to most beautiful bitches, prettiest dogs, dogs that the judge would most like to take home and best crossbreeds and many other similar titles.

These are entertaining shows and have the best rosettes and generous prizes in my experience. Normally admission per class on the day is no more than a few pounds. These shows are advertised either in local newspapers or in Our Dogs or Dogs Today.

The open dog show

These shows are for Kennel Club registered pedigree dogs and must be booked in advance by sending in a schedule from the Show Secretariat. These shows are advertised in Our Dogs and Dogs Today, both of which are excellent dog newspapers for those who do the shows.

The dogs must be at least 6 months old at the beginning of the first day of the exhibition. The classes are divided into groups, Gundog, Hound, Terrier, Toy and Pastoral Group.

There are also classes for each variety not classified separately (AVNSC) and each variety of hound, each variety of terrier, etc.

The Championship Dog Show

These shows are also advertised in the Our Dogs and Dogs Today newspapers. Championship dog shows are where you attend to qualify for Crufts and earn challenge certificates to lead your dog to championship status. Not all championship dog shows offer Challenge Certificates (CCs), nor do all breeds offer CCs.

Only registered pedigree dogs are allowed to participate and these must also be booked in advance. At these shows, the dogs are usually benched under cover away from the show ring. Therefore, a secure collar and bench chain are required. Some dogs are put in boxes.

What to take with you

Show lanyard(s), Pooh bags, proof of entry, grooming kit, water for your dog (bring more than you need in case you get held up in traffic on a warm day), food for yourself, drinks for yourself, Money/credit cards, towels, linens for bank, bank chains. Dog crate if required, entrance tickets, parking tickets, water sprayer to cool down the dogs, ice cubes on hot days. Patch, number clip or number tape for race number, regular leash and collar, comfortable shoes, jacket/coat, sun hat, sunglasses, baby wipes to freshen up face and camera for placement or even better for victory!! !

Some of the above are more for championship shows like the passes, however some 2-3 day open shows also ship passes ahead of the event.

The registration form

When you submit your show registration form, try to include an SAE for your schedule to save time and money on the show secretariat.

Once you receive your class schedule, first read it in its entirety, paying particular attention to the rules and conditions and available classes.

Fill out the registration form, which is usually in the middle of the schedule, BUT NOT before making a photocopy of it in case you make a mistake on the first one.

The name of the sire, dam and your dog’s name must be filled in along with the breeder name and your name and address. There is often a box to tick if you do NOT want your name and address to be published in the exhibition catalogue. Enter the classes you wish to put your dog in, whether you would like a catalog (I would always reserve one so you can see which ring you are in, how many dogs are registered and you can too mark where the dogs were placed).

Check it and then enter your payment details. Some shows only accept checks, while others accept credit cards.

Include a self-addressed, stamped postcard with “Receipt for ……Show” and the name of your dog and breed and enclose it with your submission. The exhibition secretariat will then send it back to you as confirmation that they have received your application. Get proof of postage, too, so if you come to a show and aren’t on the entry list, you can at least prove that you sent the entry in from the start. How embarrassing and disappointing it is to come to a show after a very long journey to discover your name is not written on the registration sheet.

Park first class and wait.

NB: You do not need to book service dog shows in advance.

Other suggestions

– View open shows and championship dog shows before entering your dog.

– Chat with other people of your race for advice and support.

– Observe those who are placed to see how they have treated their dog and presented it to the judge.

– The breed you selected was stacked in front of the judge (owner places paws and body as they should be) or handler free placed (trained to stand correctly without being touched). Stand it facing the judge or to the side. Was it on a table or on the floor? Observe and you will learn if you observe the right people.

– Find out as much as possible from your breeder which judges prefer their “type” of dogs. Some like finer lines, shorter backs, etc. The breed standard is interpreted differently by different judges.

– Study the breed standard for your breed. Sign up on the Kennel Club website for more details.

– Make sure you wear clothes that are not only flattering and comfortable for you, but flattering for your dog as well. For example, if you are showing a black dog, avoid wearing black clothes. Maybe wear cream or lilac or even light blue. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

– Even if the judge doesn’t look at your dog that day, try to be well dressed yourself.

– Make sure your dog has a chance to acclimate at the show before your class starts and a chance to relieve himself before entering the ring.

– Remember that the judge’s decision counts on the day. If your beloved dog is not placed, please show good sportsmanship and congratulate the winners.

– I have seen many people of all breeds consumed by frustration because their dog was not placed as high as the owner felt or not placed at all. They always take the best dog home and can be adopted another day.

… Finally, have fun and good luck!

With the Westminster Dog Show comes the talk of the dog show.

While many people choose to take the sport apart, there are just as many people who want to learn more.

I am there for interested people.

In front of the show ring and all the glitz and glamor that is rumored to be, there has to be a dog first.

Here are 9 things to know about that show dog you think you want:

1. Show dogs are not easy to come by.

You can’t call a breeder and tell them you want a show dog now and expect to get one.

Most breeders will not give a show dog to someone they have just met.

They ask for their crème de la crème and if they have no idea who you are, your chances of getting a dog that can compete in dog shows are slim to zero.

So don’t expect to get a show dog right away.

Some people wait years for a show dog from a certain line.

Want a dog from this year’s Westminster winner?

If he/she is bred responsibly that will likely never happen, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a great dog from another responsible breeder, you just need to know where to look.

If one day you call a breeder out of the blue and tell them you want a show dog and they say they have one ready, run away.

2. Show Quality vs. Pet Quality.

These are actually terms that I don’t like very much because I think most people take them out of context and some people get offended because they think their dog is seen as flawed.

Good breeders strive for dogs with few faults, bearing in mind that no dog is perfect.

In some cases, the difference between a show quality dog ​​and a pet quality dog ​​is so small that only a breeder or judge can see it.

A dog sold as a pet may look the same as a show dog. While it ultimately depends on each breed’s standards, minor flaws can include an underbite or overbite, coat markings, coat texture, eye color, etc.

Health and temperament should never have anything to do with a puppy’s faults, and the most important thing about whether it’s a show dog or a pet is that the dog goes into a home that will love and care for them their entire life he cares.

3. Show quality puppies don’t always need to be shown, but don’t lie.

If you want a show quality puppy but don’t plan on showing him, keep an open mind.

Some responsible dog breeders may be ok with this, while others will only allow a dog to go to a “show” home.

Expect to pay a little more for a show puppy as they are considered high quality breeding stock.

Don’t like the word breeding? Get used to it or don’t get a show dog.

It’s a common term used in the dog show world, as is the bitch. That doesn’t mean your dog is less of a dog or less of a family member, but he is a show dog and those words go with territory.

4. Be ready to sign a contract.

If the breeder and you have agreed that your puppy will be placed in the conformation ring, you will most likely need to sign a contract stating this.

I’m not a breeder so I won’t go into detail but show contracts do exist and I have one.

There are different ways it can be grown and it ultimately depends on the breeder and you.

A show contract may state that every opportunity must be taken to complete that dog in a reasonable time or that the breeder has the right to take the dog back and show it.

I’ve never seen this in person, but I can certainly understand it.

You’ve asked and maybe even begged for a show dog, so keep your word.

You will also need to complete health clearances for your show dog, e.g. B. OFA at hips and elbows.

5. Be prepared to wait.

If you are looking for a specific type of dog, you may have to wait.

For example, I wanted a brown male showing Newfoundland dogs from a specific line.

I wasn’t the only one wanting this, so I had to wait my turn.

The first litter available was a small litter with a bay male that was show quality.

I had to wait for the next litter.

Some people wait YEARS for a dog from a particular litter.

6. Show dogs must remain intact

Whatever gender you want to be, be prepared to deal with it and deal with it responsibly.

The show ring was originally intended to present high-quality breeding animals.

The dog’s conformation – its overall appearance and structure – is an indication of the dog’s ability to produce quality purebred puppies, and that is what is judged in the ring. It has been like this for hundreds of years.

7. Be willing to be co-owners.

Consistent with #1 and #6 above, if a breeder has agreed to sell you a show dog, they may only do so on a joint ownership basis, meaning they retain partial ownership of the dog.

There can be several reasons for this, e.g. B. that the breeder wants to keep the breeding rights to the dog, he wants to protect the dog, he doesn’t want the dog to be irresponsibly bred to other dogs, etc.

Read your contract carefully and ask questions if you don’t understand it! I do NOT co-own Sherman or Leroy but my breeder still reserves the right to use Sherman in her breeding program if or when she so chooses.

(Since writing this post, if I ever get a dog from the same breeder, it is in co-ownership as their contract has since changed because people have been dishonest.) Remember, you represent your breeder’s work.

8. Be willing to work.

A show dog is not born a show dog.

He was born a dog.

They are raised to show dogs with care, love and determination.

They have to learn that and you too.

Conformity classes are a must so you and your dog can get comfortable with the routine.

Even if you plan to hire a handler to show your dog, he still needs to take several conformation classes before he enters the right ring.

Show dogs don’t just get in the ring and run around, they need to be shown with an appropriate gait, be properly socialized, properly groomed and have good exercise.

This takes time to learn for both the dog and the owner.

You take the time to teach your dog agility or play Frisbee, I teach my dogs how to show off.

9. Don’t expect to get rich with your show dog.

Dog shows are not money makers. In fact, they can get pretty expensive.

Your dog will win a first place ribbon costing approximately $3.00 and you will be given the right to show off.

I have 2 walls covered in $3.00 tape that cost me hundreds of dollars.

We will never recoup financially what we have invested in dog shows, but for most people it’s more about the ride than the money.

If you don’t understand this, you will be very disappointed.

Of course, there’s a lot more to the whole show dog thing, but first things first, let’s understand the show dog before we run out and get one or before we criticize one.

Sharing is caring!

Man’s best friend will take center stage at the 2022 Westminster Dog Show.

It’s an event decked out in opulence; The show usually took place under the glitz and glamor of the lights of Madison Square Garden. Participation in the contest can cost owners thousands of dollars.

Some owners even spend upwards of $100,000 over the course of a year grooming their dogs.

That’s a lot of kibble.

But how much do Westminster Dog Show contestants get? Sporting News has you covered.

Westminster Dog Show Purse 2022

Dog shows attract serious attention. However, they are not the most profitable ventures. The Westminster Dog Show is no exception as winners receive no cash prize.

Hopefully handlers have a dog treat or two to offer their furry friends.

How Much Does the Best in Show Winner Earn?

At the Westminster Dog Show, the dogs call the shots. However, they won’t have much to show for it; Best in Show does not receive an award.

Those looking to make a small profit from a dog show will have to wait a little longer; The American Kennel Club National Championship awards the dog that takes home Best in Show $50,000. However, this event usually takes place in winter.

Who won the Westminster Dog Show in 2021?

Pekingese Wasabi won the Westminster Dog Show last year. Wasabi, the grandson of the 2012 Westminster Best in Show winner, strutted in an impressive performance on the Lyndhurst Estate, beating over 2,500 other dogs to secure victory.

Its owner-handler was David Fitzpatrick.

The winner of the 145th #WKCDogShow Best in Show is Wasabi the Pekingese! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/81dz9sLAin – Westminster Dog Show (@WKCDOGS) June 14, 2021

How much does it cost to enter a dog for the Westminster Dog Show?

While not the most profitable endeavor, it does cost owners a bit of money to attend the Westminster Dog Show. According to a report by Yahoo Finance, the Westminster Dog Show entry fee is $100.

However, it will cost you a lot more to ensure your dog is ready for the show. sometimes even up to $250,000.

How much does a Westminster Dog Show ticket cost?

With the event held without spectators in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be allowed back to the Lyndhurst Estate to see their favorite dogs compete at the 2022 Westminster Dog Show.

Tickets during the prelims are $12.50 for children 5 years and older and $25 for adults. This price increases to $15 and $30 respectively during the agility finals.

Children under the age of four have free entry.

Families planning to drive to the event should be prepared to pay a little for parking. Daytime parking at the event is $15 per car.