National and local dog shows have continued to increase in popularity as American’s fascination with dogs continues to grow. Dog shows are an excellent way to get involved with your dog, spend quality time with your dog and network with other dog lovers. They require significant time and effort; however, it can be a rewarding experience showing off your pride and joy to an arena full of people and possibly even a television audience. Regardless of whether you will show your own dog or have a handler do so, you will need to take the following steps to get started. 

1. Research breed standards and requirements: If you have a registered pure bred dog you will need to make sure that the show you wish to enroll in accepts your particular breed. In addition, you will have to make sure your dog conforms to the required standards of the breed or he will not have a very good chance of winning or being allowed to compete in the first place. Breed standards are different for each breed, but they share some of the same specifications. Your dog’s coat should be one of the allowed colors, his ears should have the appropriate clip or fold, he should be of a certain height or weight and other physical characteristics.

2. Attend dog shows: Try going to as many dog shows as possible to observe the dogs and their handlers. Pay special attention to the requirements placed on the dog so you can later mimic them at home. You can also use these events as an opportunity to network with other dog owners or handlers. It would be beneficial for you to find someone who owns your particular breed so you can ask them any questions you may have. People love to talk about their dogs and they will likely have some valuable information to give if you just ask.

3. Fill out the appropriate paperwork: You will need to complete entry forms or applications for any show you enter. You will also likely have to pay an entry fee to participate in the show. When filling out your paperwork you will need information about the breeder, your dog’s parents, your dog’s medical history, place and state of birth, etc. Before submitting the application you should make sure all of your information is correct and up-to-date.

4. Train your dog: This is the most time consuming portion of dog showing; however, it will pay off regardless of what place your dog achieves in the show. This training will help the two of you to increase your bond and have fun together. Perhaps the trickiest part of the training is the “stacked” position where the dog stands for judging. Some dogs must free stack while other breeds can be assisted, it just depends on the breed so do some research on this one before training. The stacked position involves standing erect with head held high, torso forward and legs straight behind the dog. You will also need to teach your dog to sit and stay by your side and to heal while on a leash. If you are having problems with this training, as most people do, try enrolling in a ring craft class for help. You are allowed to use small treats in the ring so use them in training to motivate your dog.

5. Groom your dog: Grooming for a show requires more than your standard shampoo and nail clip. Show dogs must be impeccably groomed and depending on the breed this could include an elaborate haircut, ear and teeth cleaning, fur bleaching and many others. You should also brush up on your grooming skills as you will be responsible for any touch ups required just before show time.

This article was sent in by the generous authors from pet super store - visit their site for electric fences, wooden dog crates and small dog electric collar.