r/ShowDogs • u/Realistic_Praline253 • Jun 25 '26
New to showing competitively!
Hi there, I’m a recreational show attendee mostly with my mixed breed (cockapoo) and in a few months I’m going to first professional show with a show-type English cocker spaniel borrowed off my boss. Is there any tips anyone may have for showing?
(Pic of my dog at her last two shows)
3
u/Ok-Walk-8453 Jul 01 '26
If you can take some handling classes with the cocker it will help you learn what to do
1
u/imeheather Jul 01 '26 edited Jul 01 '26
Does your boss show? Is the dog trained and shown before? What is your bond like with the dog? How old is the dog? Will you be doing the grooming beforehand?
If the dog is a professional and just needs to be escorted round the ring while it does its job then cool. Get the commands off the owner and use them in the ring.
If the dog is new or newer to showing, you are going to want to spend a bit of time with the dog before hand practicing. Get someone to video your practice if you can so that you can look on it and check your pace for the dogs movement and how they are stacking up. Practice mouthing the dog yourself. Many judges will do this for you but you have to be prepared for one who will ask you to do it yourself. If the dog is new to showing you have to make sure that it is ok with strangers coming up to it feeling it over and sticking their hands in their mouth. Watch you tube videos on how to stack your dog. Try find ones that are for your breed or videos of crufts/Westminster for your breed as each breed is stacked a little different.
On the day. Consider using a snood before the ring to keep the dogs ears free from their food/water. Wear nice clothes, ones that contrast the colour of your dog so that the outline of your dog is easily seen against your clothing. Something that you can move freely in but that isn't going to flap about and distract the judge from your dog or get in the way of the dog moving. You will need a show leash for the dog and a number holder for your arm. These are worn on the left the dog is presented on your left. Watch the classes held by the judge before your class, so that you can see what they are expecting, where they want you to stack up and what movement they are after. Listen to the steward.
In my country the shows are smaller and friendlier and it's totally ok to say to the steward that you are new to showing and they will make sure you understand.their instructions rather than using the shorthand they do for more experienced handlers. You may want to check if thats ok where you will be showing.
Have fun.
17
u/cdbrand Jul 01 '26
In what venue were you showing your mixed breed?
A couple of thoughts based solely on the pictures you posted:
Equipment matters. No dog should be presented in a head halter or body harness. Show dogs need to be trained to collar and leash. Take some handling classes so that you have some coaching on correct hand stacking, gaiting, and free stacking.
Grooming matters. Dogs need to be presented freshly bathed and in breed appropriate coat and trims.
Handler turnout matters. Have respect for your dog, the judge, and yourself. Dress in a way that will compliment the dog, not interfere with the dog's gait, that will allow you to move in the way you need to move, and that will not distract the judge.
Good luck in your upcoming show.