Five Simple Tips To Get Your Dog Ready For Dog Shows

Every truly avid dog-owner wishes for the chance to show off his pet at the nearest dog show. It is both a way to validate your pride in owning your pet and a chance to see other beautiful dogs in action. For the first timer, however, entering the world of competitive dog shows can truly be a daunting experience.

Here are five simple tips to get your dog, and yourself, ready for the limelight:

1) Know The Field - Everybody has to start somewhere and entering dog shows requires that you know what to expect. Read up on the literature. Go to dog shows as a spectator and see what goes on. Get a good grasp of the jargon. Knowing the difference between all-breed dog shows and specialty shows can help a lot in determining what shows to join and how to get your pet ready.

2) Know Your Dog - Knowledge of your pet is essential when getting ready for a dog show. A little effort in researching your dog's breed and health history can pay off immensely. Getting familiar with your dog's quirks, habits and abilities is also a great way to bond with them and paves the way to a successful performance in the show ring.

3) Training, Lots of Training - Training for the show, for yourself and your dog is very important. It is advisable that you have the help of a trained handler when you're starting out. Training dogs also requires conditioning them physically so that they are in tip-top shape when they participate in the show. Remember, dog shows are like beauty pageants. A well-trained dog is both pleasant to look at and be with.

4) A Visit To The Vet - Every dog needs a visit to the vet when getting ready for a dog show. Having your pet inoculated is a standard procedure to protect your dog, and other dogs, from spreading diseases during the show. A check-up on your pet's physical condition would also help greatly in assuring that your pride and joy is ready for the show.

5) Ask Questions - Learning is a continual process. Asking questions from handlers and veterinarians on how you should treat or handle your dog can open up insights on caring for it.

These five simple tips are just the beginning. Like they say, experience is the best teacher, but with this advice you're well on your way to getting your dog ready for the show.

About the Author: Jack Russell is a a long time dog fancier, visit his Dog Resources Blog and download his Free Dog Owners Handbook - it's Dog Gone Good! http://www.daveshealthbuzz.com/dogcare/

Posted in in Dog Shows | Permalink

There are two types of dog shows licensed by the American Kennel Club. One is the all-breed show. The all-breed show includes classes for all the recognized breeds, and groups of breeds such as all terriers, all toys. The second dog show is the specialty show for one particular breed that also offers championship points.

A benched show is one where the dog show superintendent supplies benches (cages for toy dogs). Each bench is numbered and its corresponding number appears on your entry slip that is sent to you prior to the show. When you enter the show, take your Shih Tzu to the bench. Your Shih Tzu should remain on the bench until it is time to groom him before entering the ring to be judged. After judging, your Shih Tzu must return to the bench until the show is dismissed.

At an unbenched show the club makes no provision for your Shih Tzu other than an enormous tent if outdoors or an area in a show hall where all crates and grooming equipment must be kept if the show is inside.

When you enter the show grounds, whether it is a benched or unbenched show, you are expected to keep your Shih Tzu under complete control. You should use a short lead in crowded aisles or getting out of cars. At a bench show, a "bench chain" is needed. A bench chain should allow your Shih Tzu to move around, but not off the bench.

There is always at least one professional photographer who will take your Shih Tzu's picture along with the judge and whatever is won, the ribbons, etc. These photos make excellent advertisements in the various dog magazines.

Some shows also offer Obedience Trials. Obedience Trials are always considered a separate event. There are three obedience titles. First, the Companion Dog or C.D. title; second, the Companion Dog Excellent or C.D.X.; and third, the Utility Dog or U.D. You can receive detailed information in a booklet entitled Official Obedience Regulations from the American Kennel Club.

About the Author

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Posted in in Dog Shows | Permalink