Exhibitor Do’s and Don’ts

Exhibitor Do’s and Don’ts

Patty Metzger

David Fitzpatrick

Steve Keating

Carol Kniebusch Noe

Before entering the ring:

If you have multiple entries of dogs, make sure the armband number matches the dog you take in the ring.  To be certain, it is helpful to write the name of the dog on the back.

Be ready to go in the ring when your number is called and if you have multiple exhibits, make sure you have help ringside to change dogs and armbands.

Be prepared to go into the ring in armband catalog order and know what number is in front of you.

Exercise your dogs before going into the ring.  Accidents can happen but they should be avoided if possible because it takes time away from the judging to clean the ring and you will avoid embarrassment.

Watch the ring pattern of the classes ahead of yours so you are ready and prepared to follow the judge’s instructions.

Never enter the ring with a dog that hasn’t been thoroughly groomed and never enter the ring with a dirty dog.

Don’t enter complimentary entries under a judge, as they will probably never look at the catalog and never know it.

Never send gifts to judges unless it is a picture thanking them for a win.

Train your dog well before entering it in a show.  Many good dogs lose because they are not trained properly for the ring.

Wear appropriate dress and footwear for the ring.

Know your breed standard!

While you are in the ring

When your dog is on the table or set up on the ground, move away from the front of the dog so the judge is able to examine and go over the dog….and keep your head out of the way.  When setting up the dog on the table, place the dog close to the judge’s side so it is easier for them to examine and view the profile.

Don’t feed the dog while it is being examined by the judge.

Don’t string up the dog and move at the appropriate speed for the dog.   Train your dog to walk on a loose lead so he looks balanced on the move.

Don’t allow your dog to crowd the dog in front of you and don’t allow the dog behind you to crowd your dog.

Don’t distract the other exhibits with bait or squeaky toys.

Don’t keep looking at the judge.  Pay attention to your exhibit at all times.

Don’t let down on your exhibit, always keep your dog looking its best in the ring.  The judge is always looking and evaluating your dog even after examining it.

Be ready to go in for Reserve Winners if the Winner is chosen from your class.  Stand in the place in line for that class.  If you are in the ring and own the second place dog, make sure you have some help to bring in the dog.

Don’t go in the ring for Best of Winners and try to make your dog act up so that the other sex can get the cross over major.

Watch the professional handlers and other successful exhibitors to learn how to present and handle your dog better.  You can even learn a great deal about grooming your dog by watching people with other breeds.