Level 1Beginner
How early should you arrive?
The answer
A buffer so you can settle in without rushing
For a first show, aim to arrive at the venue 60 to 90 minutes before the start of the judging that concerns you, where access times allow.
This is a practical suggested buffer, not a regulatory requirement. The opening time, any admission cut-off and the instructions on your schedule come first.
If no time is announced for your breed or class, plan around the general start of judging.
Beginner — Getting your bearings
1. Tell the opening time from the start of judging
Opening lets you get in and set up; judging starts afterwards.
MyDogShow tip: find in your show’s programme the time for entry and checks, then the start of judging: these times change from one event to another.
2. Count the time between the car and the ring
Parking, unloading, getting through reception and finding the right spot all take time.
The trick: your arrival time is the time you reach the car park, not the time you take the last motorway exit!
3. Keep some time for your dog
Plan a short toilet break, offer water and let it explore the place quietly. The Royal Kennel Club advises arriving early enough to let the dog and its handler relax. [Source 1]
Intermediate — Organising your morning
1. Add a buffer to the journey
Traffic jams, a distant car park or a queue at the entrance: anticipate the foreseeable difficulties.
The trick: work out your departure time from the arrival time you want, then add a margin suited to the journey.
2. Find your ring as soon as you arrive
Check the ring number, your class and the running-order information with the ring secretary. The Royal Kennel Club recommends locating your spot and your ring before letting the dog settle in. [Source 1]
3. Watch before you take part
If you have time, watch a few presentations: where do the exhibitors wait? How do they go in? What movements are asked for? The Royal Kennel Club recommends this kind of observation to beginners. [Source 1]
Advanced — Adjusting without being caught out
1. Adapt the buffer to your preparation
Several dogs, equipment to set up or grooming touch-ups? Allow more time. For a dog that is ready quickly, mainly set aside a proper break after the journey.
2. Follow how the judging is really going
Do not work out your turn only from the number of dogs entered. The Royal Kennel Club points out that ring changes can happen and recommends keeping an eye on the judging. [Source 1]
3. Use the spare time to settle
Once set up, alternate rest and short preparation. There is no need to rehearse the presentation throughout the wait.
The aim: to arrive at the ringside with a dog who is ready and your equipment prepared.
A simple example
Fictional example, to be adapted to your schedule.
| Announced time | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| Opening to exhibitors: 8 a.m. | Aim to arrive around opening time |
| Start of judging: 9 a.m. | Use the available hour to get in, take the dog out and set up |
| Individual turn not specified | Stay alert to the calls and the progress of the ring |
If you risk being late, contact the organiser as soon as possible. Do not assume your turn can be moved.