How do you meet other exhibitors?

You don’t need to be a great talker to get to know people. You already have something in common: dogs! A simple question and a little attention at the right moment can start the conversation.

Beginner: making the first move

1. Introduce yourself simply

Start with a hello and a few words about yourself.

Try this: “Hello, I’m new to showing with my dog. Are you showing a youngster today too?”

You don’t need to tell your whole story. A short introduction is enough to get the conversation going.

2. Check that the moment is right

Someone who is watching the ring or finishing grooming may be focused on their next round.

Try this: “Do you have a moment, or would you rather we chat afterwards?”

The American Kennel Club advises favouring conversations after the showing and coming back later if the exhibitor is busy. [1]

3. Ask an easy question to share

The dog’s age, a first show or a training experience are good ways in.

Try this: “What helped you at your first show?”

Avoid starting with a personal question about money or a criticism of the placings. The AKC encourages visitors to ask questions to discover breeds and shows. [1]

Intermediate: creating a real exchange

1. Listen as much as you talk

After your question, let the person answer. Pick up on what they say rather than immediately launching into your dog’s story.

Try this: “You say he was reserved at first: how did you organise his first outings?”

A conversation is more enjoyable when everyone gets their turn.

2. Respect the dogs’ space

While the humans get to know each other, the dogs don’t necessarily need to say hello.

Keep yours close to you and ask before approaching or petting. The AKC points out the importance of respecting boundaries between dogs and asking before touching them. [2]

The trick: you can chat perfectly well with someone while keeping a few steps’ distance.

3. End the conversation without holding the person up

If they keep glancing at the ring, gather their things or start getting their dog ready, let them go.

Try this: “I’ll let you get ready. Thanks for the chat and good luck in the ring!”

A short, pleasant conversation often makes people want to meet up again later.

Advanced: keeping up the connections

1. Suggest a concrete follow-up, without pushing

If you hit it off, suggest keeping in touch or meeting up at a future show.

Try this: “Would you like to swap contact details so we can meet again next time?”

Let the person choose how to be contacted and simply accept a refusal.

2. Look for opportunities outside the ring too

Ask exhibitors whether they know of handling sessions, club meetings or activities you could take part in.

Try this: “Do you train in this area? Do you know who I could turn to?”

The AKC states that talking with participants can help you find, among other things, show preparation classes. [1] Then check the possibilities with the organisation concerned.

3. Make room for newcomers

When you begin to know people, introduce them to each other, with their agreement.

Try this: “You both show the same breed; if you like, I can introduce you.”

Avoid conversations that leave a beginner on the sidelines. A short explanation or a question addressed to everyone lets you include them naturally.

The little MyDogShow habit

A hello, a sincere question and respect for the other person’s time.

You don’t need to leave with ten new contacts. One pleasant conversation is already a very good start.