Level 2Exhibitor
How do you congratulate someone?
The answer
A great placing, a first show well done or a dog finally at ease in the ring: there are plenty of good reasons to say well done.
The best congratulations are simple, sincere and given at the right time. There’s no need for a speech: a few well-chosen words can give pleasure and strengthen the friendly atmosphere around the ring.
Beginner: saying well done simply
1. Wait until the person is free
The result has just come out, but the handler may still need to reward their dog or prepare for a recall. Let them finish before going over.
Try this: “Well done on your result! I’ll let you look after him, see you later.”
The American Kennel Club recommends waiting until the end of the presentation and the exchanges with the team before approaching an exhibitor. [1]
2. Keep it short and warm
A smile and a straightforward sentence are enough. You don’t need to know all the titles to congratulate someone.
Try this: “Congratulations on that lovely placing!” or “Well done to you both!”
If you’re not sure of the exact result, avoid announcing a title at random.
3. Congratulate without automatically touching the dog
Your enthusiasm is no substitute for permission to stroke. Ask before putting out a hand and accept that the dog may need some peace.
Try this: “He’s gorgeous! Can I stroke him?”
The AKC recommends asking before approaching or touching a dog. [1]
Intermediate: making the compliment personal
1. Point out something you noticed
A specific compliment shows you paid attention to the class.
Try this: “I really liked your presentation: you looked really at ease together.”
Stick to what you saw, without inventing a technical judgement to impress.
2. Recognise progress too
Not everyone goes home with a first place. A dog who accepts the examination better or a beginner who is gaining confidence also deserves encouragement.
Try this, if you know the pair: “He was so much more relaxed today, it’s lovely to see how far you’ve come!”
Take care not to turn the compliment into an embarrassing reminder of past difficulties.
3. Avoid congratulations followed by a “but”
“Well done, but the competition was easy” takes all the pleasure out of the sentence. The same goes for “At last, a win!”
The right habit: let your compliment end on a positive note. The person doesn’t need an analysis of the placings at that moment.
Advanced: keeping up good sportsmanship
1. Congratulate your direct rival too
You hoped to win and someone else was chosen? You can be disappointed and still offer them a sincere well done.
Try this: “Congratulations on your win, enjoy the moment!”
Avoid slipping in a criticism of the judging or a comparison with your dog afterwards.
2. Adapt your words to the person
A regular may be happy to talk about the result. A beginner who is still emotional will sometimes simply appreciate a few reassuring words.
Try this: “Well done on your first show! How did you find your turn?”
If the person has to go back into the ring or prefers to be left in peace, end the conversation with a smile.
MyDogShow tip: if an exhibitor is not available, come back later.
3. Let the person choose how to celebrate
Before a group photo, a hug or a social media post, ask whether they are happy with it.
Try this: “Would you like a souvenir photo?” and then, if you want to post it: “Can I share this photo and tag you?”
The success is theirs: go along with their enthusiasm without imposing your own way of celebrating.
The MyDogShow quick reflex
The right moment, a sincere compliment, then space to enjoy it.
And to begin with, two words do the job very well: “Well done, both of you!”