IT’S SHOWTIME

There are several different types of dog shows. The one most people think of is breed competition or conformation shows. Dogs of each breed compete in five different classes at a dog show: puppy, novice, bred-by-exhibitor, American-bred, and open.

 

There are several important things to remember before entering any show. Your dog must be in excellent health, with all its vaccinations up to date, since it may be exposed to contagious diseases at a show or pass on ailments to the other dogs. It must also have an immaculate general appearance.

 

You and your Wheaten should also have some skills in ring-craft. You do not want to disrupt the other entrants. Your first time in the ring should not be the first time your dog wears a collar or walks on lead. You want to be able to concentrate of showing the dog to its full advantage without worrying about controlling bad behavior.

 

When you first arrive at the show you and your dog will probably both be excited. Be sure to check your ring time and check in at your ring. Find a place to wait with your dog and get your setup ready. Be sure to walk and potty your dog before you enter the ring. Then try and relax and wait your ring time.

 

Be ready to enter the ring when your number is called. Once in the ring set your dog in its stance on a level piece of ground. Adjust the dog’s legs and tail with as little interference as possible.

 

A dog should stand still and remain calm while the judge examines it. Keep the dog’s head in the correct position and don’t forget about that tail. The judge is looking for a healthy, good-tempered dog that best matches its official breed standard on that day.

 

The judge will want to see the dog’s movement or “gait”. You may be asked to trot the dog in a triangle  so the judge can watch how it moves from side to side, in front and behind. An experienced show dog should move smoothly in a straight line. You will be expected to move at the same speed as the dog, which is normally a fast walk or easy run.