What does a show day look like?

A show day alternates between setting up, waiting, going in front of the judge and taking breaks. Some dogs then take part in the honour ring competitions. Here are the stages so you can find your bearings without running around!

1. Before you leave: check the information

Re-read your entry confirmation and the organiser’s instructions: venue, access times, schedule, documents to present and departure arrangements.

Also prepare for the comfort of your duo: water, bowl, mat, poop bags, lead, small treats and comfortable shoes.

Allow a margin for the journey, parking and setting up. Arriving calmly helps you start the day serenely.

2. On arrival: find your bearings

Follow the directions from reception for entry formalities and any checks planned.

Check your catalogue number and how to collect the number to wear during the presentation. Then find your ring, the space where your dog will be judged.

Drahthaar Club de France — Beginner exhibitor’s guide, section “For taking part in a show”.

3. Settle in and wait for your turn

Choose an authorised spot where your dog can settle comfortably. Give them time to discover the surroundings, offer water and plan a toilet break.

Check the running order and ask the ring staff if necessary. Stay alert for the calls: a long walk at the wrong moment could make you miss your turn!

The Drahthaar Club guide notably recommends a familiar mat for the dog and a seat for their handler.

Drahthaar Club de France — Beginner exhibitor’s guide, section “What do I need?”.

4. Going in front of the judge

When your number is called, go into the ring and follow the instructions.

The judge examines your dog:

Standing still, to assess their build.
During the close examination, in particular the teeth and hands-on check.
Moving, to observe their gait.

The judge then makes the comparisons needed for the placings. The exact order of the steps may vary: there is no need to learn a choreography by heart!

Centrale Canine (the French kennel club) — Shows, description of the judging and presentation.

5. Receiving the result

The judge awards a grade and, depending on the class, a placing. A judge’s critique may come with the result: it contains their comments on the dog.

Check where and when to collect your documents or any prize. Then give your companion a break.

Centrale Canine (the French kennel club) — Shows, awarding of the grade and comments.

6. Possibly, joining the honour ring

Some selected dogs continue the competition. The Best of Breed winners can notably compete for Best in Group, then the Group winners for Best in Show.

If your dog is selected, ask for the times and the meeting point.

Centrale Canine (the French kennel club) — Dog shows, presentation of the final selections (PDF).

7. Getting ready to leave

Do not assume that finishing your judging automatically lets you leave. Check the exit conditions set for this event and any remaining classes you still have to take part in.

Drahthaar Club de France — Beginner exhibitor’s guide, section “The judgement given”.

Beginner: getting your bearings

Keep the useful information on your phone. Your entry confirmation, map and number will be easy to find.
Find your ring as soon as you arrive. You can then settle in more calmly.
Put comfort first. Water, rest and breaks matter as much as preparing for your turn.

Intermediate: organising your time

Keep an eye on how the judging is progressing. Adjust your breaks without going far away when the call comes.
Prepare your dog briefly. A few steps and a stack are often enough to find your rhythm again.
Note one point to work on. Re-read the comments calmly after the day.

Advanced: managing the whole day

Anticipate a possible extra class. Bring water, food and equipment to stay longer.
Pace the demands on your dog. Avoid pointless repetitions between two presentations.
Prepare a comfort plan. Adapt your set-up to the weather, the ground and the crowds.

These nine tips are practical suggestions. The reception arrangements, times and exit conditions remain those of the organiser.

Illustration caption: arriving, settling in, showing your dog and heading home after a well-organised day.