Level 3Experienced
I have to show several dogs: how do I organise my day?
The answer
Two dogs, three leads, numbers to keep track of… and sometimes two rings calling almost at the same time! Showing several dogs mainly calls for an organisation that gives each one time to be prepared and looked after.
Here are nine tips to keep track of the day.
Beginner — Prepare the essentials
1. Make a sheet for each dog
Gather its official name, its class, its exhibitor number, its ring and the time announced. Check this information in the event documents.
The practical tip: one line per dog on a single sheet lets you compare the rounds quickly.
2. Match each number to the right dog
Keep the number cards separate, with the matching information. Before going in, check that you are wearing the number of the dog you're showing.
Your little check: right dog, right class, right number.
3. Plan who looks after the waiting dogs
While you're showing one dog, the others must stay in suitable, safe conditions. Arrange for a trusted person to be present and a comfortable resting area.
The question to settle before you set off: who looks after each one while you're in the ring?
Intermediate — Share out the roles
1. Spot possible overlaps
Compare the times and the distance between rings. If two rounds seem incompatible, contact the organiser, then tell the ring stewards concerned about the problem.
To remember: asking for help doesn't guarantee your time will be moved. Under the FCI framework, ring organisation problems are dealt with by the chief ring steward and the judge. [2]
2. Get another handler ready
MyDogShow tip: if two classes overlap, ask someone you trust to handle one of your dogs, and arrange this help early enough.
The practical tip: do a few rehearsals with that person so your dog finds its bearings again: start, gait, stop and contact.
3. Pass on simple instructions
Explain to your helper what each dog knows, how to reward it and what may worry it. Also say where you'll meet up after the round.
Example: “With Oslo, start gently; with Naya, leave a little space before the stop.”
Advanced — Anticipate tricky situations
1. Plan for comparisons between your dogs
Two of your dogs may be called together, in particular if they compete in the same class or in a later comparison. Have a handler available for each if this happens.
The right habit: explain your arrangements to the ring steward before the call and ask for instructions on a possible change of handler. The FCI regulations provide that such changes are notified to the judge. [2]
2. Tell logistical help from “double handling”
Your helper can get the next dog ready, look after the documents and keep an eye on the schedule. However, they must not attract the attention of the dog being shown from outside the ring.
The official benchmark: “double handling” is strictly forbidden at FCI international CACIB shows. [2]
3. Keep some margin for extra rounds
After each result, ask whether your dog has to come back for a comparison or a competition in the ring of honour. Then update your schedule.
The practical tip: keep the numbers, leads and sheets within reach until the end of the planned entries. A win can add an appointment to your day!
The best sign of a well-run day: each dog gets a prepared round and real breaks between demands.
What the official sources say
MyDogShow tip: organise a relay with another handler if needed, checking the event’s rules and those that apply to the handler.
For FCI international CACIB shows, the regulations set out the role of the ring stewards, the notification of changes of handler and the ban on “double handling”. They also give priority to the welfare and health of the dogs. [2]
The sheets, pouches and rehearsals with a helper are practical tips, not regulatory requirements.