Learning to go round the ring

This movement lets the judge, among other things, observe the gaits and, in a group parade, compare the dogs moving. Your aim: follow the requested route, keep a suitable pace and leave enough space for the other teams. [1, 2]

A good circuit starts with a clear path and a dog that moves with you easily.

Beginner — Understand the route

1. Listen to the instruction before setting off

The circuit is usually done anticlockwise, but always follow the judge's directions. They may ask for several circuits.

Your habit: look at the direction indicated and ask for an instruction to be clarified if needed. Watching a class before yours will also help you understand how things go. [1]

2. Get your dog used to walking on your left

For the usual circuit, the dog is on your left and the lead is held in your left hand. That puts it on the inside of the route.

To try: first practise a few steps in a straight line on your left, without pulling, before tracing a wide curve. [1, 3]

3. Prepare a simple start

Before setting off, position your dog facing the direction you're going to move in.

The little game: announce your start with a short word, then reward a few coordinated steps. Prepare this signal in a quiet place, without asking for a full circuit straight away. [3]

Intermediate — Linking straight lines and turns

1. Build a small practice ring

In an open space, use a few visible markers to mark out a wide route. Nothing should get in the way of the legs or the lead.

To try: practise a straight line, then a curve, before putting them together. This home-made route is a teaching suggestion for learning step by step.

2. Signal changes of direction

A dog doesn't always guess your path. Preparing the turn lets it follow you without being pulled along by the lead.

To try: briefly get its attention before turning and use your usual signal. Start with easy changes of direction, then move closer to the show route. [3]

3. Keep the pace that suits your dog

The aim is to show fluid movement. Your speed must suit your dog and its breed.

Your mission: have a trainer check your pace. Avoid speeding up to “catch up the circuit”: a steady pace helps more in observing the gaits. [2]

Advanced — Showing among the others

1. Protect the space in front of you

In a group circuit, don't get too close to the dog in front. A comfortable distance lets you keep the right speed.

To try: in class, follow another team without trying to catch it up. The space needed depends on the dogs and the route: there is no universal distance. [1]

2. Add distractions gradually

Other dogs, spectators and noises can disrupt a path you have mastered perfectly at home.

To try: start with a single team at a distance, then train in a small group with a trainer. Ringcraft classes are designed precisely to prepare for walking despite the presence of people and other dogs. [4]

3. Film a full circuit

A video lets you check how you are handling without constantly looking at your dog while moving.

Your check: do you keep a readable path? Do the turns stay smooth? Do your lead or your positioning get in the way of the movement? Correct one detail at a time with an experienced person. [2]

On the day

Follow the route indicated, keep your dog under control and stay alert to the judge and to the other teams.

At the end, go back to your place as instructed and get your dog ready for what follows. You don't need to add extra circuits of your own accord. [1]

The right circuit of the ring is the one that lets the judge look at your dog without your handling getting in the way of its movement.

The exercises suggested are teaching tips. The habits described by the organisations below are not a universal rule: the judge's instructions remain your reference in the ring. The illustration evokes the situation and does not define a technical path.