Behavior: Preparing Your Dog for a Show

If you want your dog to compete in shows, you must prepare him properly. Although the appearance of your dog is important, you must also spend time teaching your dog to behave properly during the show.

Watch a dog show on television, and notice that the dogs stand in proper stacked position when they are not circling the ring. The paws are straight and evenly aligned, so there is a rectangular shape between the front and rear paws. The foot position of some dogs varies in some breeds so view photographs of a properly stacked dog of the breed you are training.

Benefits of Stacked Position

Stacked position makes it easy for judges to see the details of your dog’s build and shape. This makes it possible for the judges to compare your dog’s structure to the breed’s standard characteristics.

Teaching Stacked Position

Set aside time to teach your dog to stand still for several minutes at a time. Position his paws so he learns to stand with the correct posture.

Inspections

Judges will examine your dog’s teeth and feel his body structure. He must remain in position and be comfortable with a stranger inspecting him. Keep in mind that smaller dogs are examined on a table so train your dog to stand on one. Conduct practice inspections with friends your dog does not know.

Practice Getting Attuned to Your Dog’s Gait

When your dog moves around the ring, you also need to effortlessly match his gait. Practice holding him on a loose leash and matching his gait multiple times a day. Be careful to practice where your dog will have firm footing and is unlikely to slide.

Do not forget to reward your dog after a practice session. Essenti has a variety of rubber dog balls, dog tugs and fetchers, and other floating rubber dog toys that will help your dog enjoy exercising after he been practicing his stance. Keep several on hand so your dog can relax after practicing his behavior.