If you find dog shows alluring & fun, and you want to spend more time with your pet, preparing and going to dog shows yourself can be a great idea. Some people think they’re superficial or weird, even, but the fact of the matter is that dog shows are actually fun and allow people to show and strengthen their own bond with the pet. During dog shows, you can showcase your bond and the talents that the pet might have. It’s all fun and can create happy memories for you and your pet. If you’re interested, here are 5 unique tips on how to turn your dog into a show dog!
Begin by making them socially (un)awkward
The first thing to do when you’re preparing for a first-time appearance is to remove all awkwardness (or as much of it, as possible) in their behaviour. If they’re easily unnerved when a stranger approaches them, your chances of performing well or just having a good time at the show are significantly diminished. There are some tasks and stages where a judge might approach and get up close to the dog. They have to remain still.
The same applies to being around other dogs. It’s cool to show signs of familiarity and interest, but you should learn how to stop and/or prevent your pet from sniffing on other dogs’ bottoms during the show.
Practice basic things
Don’t focus on something super challenging and difficult. It’s always smart to start and do the most basic things first. Commit to perfecting 4-6 basic commands instead of asking them to do something incredible. For example, teach them to walk and trot by your side as well as to follow you. Training with treats is always recommended as savoury bites tremendously reduce the steepness of the learning curve…
And since we’re speaking about the basics, make sure that your pup is eligible to participate. If it’s the highest level of competition or the most prestigious event, mixed-breeds and some particular puppies might not be eligible.
Learn to gait
Gaiting is probably the most important feature of dog shows. If you’re in it not solely to have a good time but to perform well too, then you have to learn how to gait. It is a type of exercise/routine which shows just how well-behaved and how impressive the dog is. Gaiting tests their emotional as well as physical capabilities.
Gaiting is a particular type of trot which is tricky to nail for the first time. The front-left and the left-rear leg must keep at the same distance and move in-rhythm at all times. Make sure to look at in-depth tutorials or learn in clubs from experienced teachers. It’s what makes and breaks the dog show.
Groom and trim
Of course, grooming is also very important. Beginning with the teeth and the hair, you shouldn’t overlook the nails, paws and their tail as well as rectal area. Groom and brush them the night before and be careful – they shouldn’t get dirty or messy until after the show. Get a kit for corrections on the go (scissors or hair cutting machine, a rechargeable dog nail grinder and treats, of course).
Comfort them during every step
Your dog needs to feel rewarded for following your commands. Pretty much all breeds are born with the instinct to please a human but you have to be precise and obvious on your goals and wants. Don’t leave it for the dog to figure out – show your appreciation, guide them and reward their efforts.
All in all
All in all, don’t get the order of things confused. Yes, you can buy the grooming kit with the electric nail grinder for dogs and the scissors first, but adaptation to socialisation is the first order of the day. Once your pet is comfortable around other dogs and people, you can proceed to train them and groom them in order to make them a true dog show winner. Have fun!
