Owning a show dog is kind of like having a child on a traveling soccer team who just happens to also be a prima ballerina. Not only do owning and showing a dog require a massive time commitment, a lot of maintenance and monitoring are necessary for a dog to successfully show. To the uninitiated, a dog show may seem to be simply the dog version of a beauty pageant, but that just isn’t the case. A show dog is judged not just on beauty, but how close he comes to the breed standards.
But above all, a show dog must be healthy, and free of diseases or health issues that are inherent to certain breeds. Be aware, though, that even those petmeds that are necessary for the dog’s health may disqualify him as some dog shows impose strict rules regarding drugs and their effects on the animals. Along with health, appearance and a few other key ingredients make for an optimal show experience.
Grooming
Watch the movie Best in Show, and you’ll get a caricature of what a show dog owner goes through to make their dog a winner. While the movie may be just a bit exaggerated, the paramount importance of the dog’s grooming should not be overlooked.
A dog’s coat is an important part of the breed standards, and first impressions matter to a judge, as much as they attempt to remain unbiased. A gleaming coat that flows well with the animal also allows a judge to properly examine the animal’s movements. And imagine a judge trying to feel the bone structure of an animal with a knotted or matted coat—it just isn’t going to work. It is also important to keep in mind that a dog can be disqualified (at least in the U.S.) if the natural coloration or markings of the dog have been altered. No dyeing your Irish wolfhound’s coat bright green, then.
Training
Training a show dog is a continual process of positive reinforcement, as you want to make the process of showing as enjoyable as it can be for the dog. Attitude matters in the ring. A dog should be happy, extroverted, and calm, not shying away from the judge’s touch, or exhibiting aggressive behavior.
If you’re interested in showing a dog, several variables must be considered, and it is a decision you must make soon after getting the puppy. Training needs to start fairly early, and working with a professional handler may also be the right choice. In that case, the relationship between handler and dog should be established at an early stage in the dog’s life.
Outside the Ring
Remember, a show dog is a dog first, and has a dog’s needs. Make sure he is well-fed and watered, properly exercised and healthy; a show dog is supposed to be the pinnacle of the breed. As much as raising a show dog is a lifetime commitment, sometimes he just needs to be a dog.
He can’t be perfectly mannered all the time, nor should he be. Of course there are going to be moments when grooming is lost to a mud puddle or a rainstorm, but don’t take that opportunity to discipline for something that is simply in his nature. Going out and playing (even if it isn’t the ideal type of “play”) is not an activity that should be associated with negative correction — fun should be fun. As a show dog, play time is scarce, and should be enjoyed whenever there is the chance.
Most dog owners and handlers put in long hours preparing for the ring both at home and at events. But good handlers and owners know that a happy dog shows better, and a happy dog is one that gets a healthy dose of play and fun in their lives, and is well-loved by their family.
Finally, remember that while you may want to show your dog, he may not want to be shown. Any responsible dog owner will agree that a happy dog matters more than a well-ribboned one. If he enjoys the show and the ring, keep going to shows. If he doesn’t, then don’t. Take him home and play to his heart’s content.
