How to Show a Dog?

Have you been thinking about showing your dog?

While you may think showing a dog is all about registering for and attending a competition, there is so much more that goes into entering this world. Dog showing is for passionate pet owners who love their dog and would jump at the chance to have that extra special bonding time. But dog showing is a lot of work, expensive, and fiercely competitive.

If you have been considering showing your dog but aren’t sure where to start, this short guide on how to show a dog is for you.

Learn the Rules

If you want to get started, the first thing to do is find out what the requirements to show a dog are. Dog showing is all about how well your pet conforms to its breed. It’s less about aesthetics and more about standards. There are strict rules qualification rules for dogs, so you need to learn the rules before deciding if you can show your dog.

However, as this blog post shows, your dog can win the title, even if he is the first of his breed.

Choose Your Show Dog

Once you know the rules, qualifications, and regulations for dog showing, you need to decide what dog to show. While every pet owner thinks their pet is the best, you do need to choose a dog that qualifies for the competition. Make sure your pet qualifies before going any further.

Attend a Few Shows

One of the best ways to get a feel for showing dogs is to attend a few shows. Think of your attendance as a fact-gathering mission. You will get a feel for the judging, how other pet owners are showing their dogs, and what the competition entails.

Sign up for Training Classes

A great tip for dog showing for beginners is to get the best training for you and your dog. While your dog will be doing most of the work, you will also need to learn certain poses and handler holds. You can DIY this training or hire a professional.

Sign up for a Competition

Once you have done all of your homework, it’s time to enter your dog in a show!

This is the moment you have been waiting for and the cumulation of all your hard work. It’s important to be patient with your dog and yourself. Dog showing is a competition and like any competition, experience gives you a better chance at winning.

This Is How to Show a Dog Like a Pro

By implementing these tips for how to show a dog, you can start your dog-showing journey a little more prepared than the average beginner.

Start by learning the rules and regulations for showing your dog, and choose a dog that qualifies. Attend a few shows to get a feel of the competitions and join the AKC to make it official. Make sure to take advantage of all the training you can and consider having a practice run.

Don’t forget to browse our blog for more tips on being a great dog owner.