Level 1Beginner
How to handle waiting times?
The answer
A simple rhythm to keep you both ready
“Are we up soon?” At a show, the answer can change as the judging goes on. To handle that uncertainty, organise the wait into three phases: rest, a short break to move around, and getting ready to go in.
MyDogShow tip: the gaps between classes can be long. Planning for your own comfort is therefore part of the preparation.
Beginner — Laying the groundwork
- Ask how the judging is going. When you arrive, check with the ring steward’s desk which class is in and what comes before yours. That helps you plan your breaks without guessing an exact time. The useful phrase: “We’re in junior bitch class. Which classes are still to be judged before us?”
- Put rest first. Settle your dog on his mat in a permitted spot. Let him relax rather than constantly asking for his attention. The Royal Kennel Club recommends giving dogs time to settle in and relax.
- Think about your own comfort too. Drink, have a snack and sit down when you can.
MyDogShow tip: bring something to drink, eat and sit on while you wait.
Intermediate — Alternating breaks
- Plan short outings at the right time. If your class isn’t close, use a break for toilet needs and a few relaxed steps, in the permitted areas. Check how things are progressing before you go off. The tip: choose an easy walk that you can cut short to get back quickly.
- Get your kit ready while he rests. Attach your number, find the show lead and get the rewards ready. You’ll avoid hunting for everything when you’re called.
- Keep rehearsals short. If some recall practice is useful, do a few steps and a short stand, then finish on a success. Adapt this preparation to your dog: a long wait doesn’t have to turn into a long training session.
Advanced — Adjusting the plan
- Reassess as things actually unfold. The announced schedule is still the one to follow, but also keep an eye on progress and on messages from the organisers. The Royal Kennel Club points out that several breeds may follow one another and that ring changes are possible. The tip: an alarm can remind you to check the ring; it does not replace the calls.
- Fit the wait to your dog. If he rests well, leave him in peace. If he struggles to settle with classes going on around him, find a quieter permitted spot and space out your requests. The FCI requires health and wellbeing to come first. It forbids, among other things, dangerous situations such as leaving a dog in a car in excessive heat or cold.
- Share the tasks if you have company. One of you can follow the calls while the other takes the dog for a short outing. Agree clearly on a meeting place and how to reach each other. The tip: after the judging, check whether a recall is planned before arranging another break.
What rhythm should you adopt?
Practical guidelines, with no set duration.
| Situation | Suggested approach |
|---|---|
| Several classes go in before yours | Rest, offer water and a short outing when possible |
| Your class is getting close | Return near the ring with your kit ready |
| Your class is called | Follow the staff’s instructions |
| The judging is over | Check for recalls, then plan a break |