The little unwritten rules

These customs are often learned through meeting people. They do not form a universal rulebook, but they rest on a simple idea: respect everyone's time, space and work.

Beginner: finding your place

1. Ask whether the moment is right

An exhibitor may look available while listening out for their class being called.

Try: "Hello, do you have a moment, or would you rather I came back afterwards?"

The American Kennel Club recommends this way of approaching handlers and advises leaving conversations until after their run.

2. Ask before setting up

An empty chair or a corner near a table does not necessarily mean the spot is free. Someone may come back with their dog or need that space to get ready.

Try: "Can I sit here without getting in your way?"

Also keep the aisles and ring access clear, as the AKC recommends.

3. Admire the grooming with your eyes first

A lovely hairstyle can represent a lot of preparation. Avoid the spontaneous pat that ruffles everything just before going in!

Try: "Can I stroke him? Where do you prefer?"

The AKC reminds us to ask permission and to take into account the work done on the coat.

Intermediate: sharing the space with tact

1. Ask before borrowing equipment

A brush sitting on a table is not self-service. Even among acquaintances, ask before taking a chair, a comb or a lead.

The right reflex: give the item back quickly, clean and in the same place. If you damage it, tell its owner.

2. Offer help without taking charge

Is someone looking for their number or struggling to carry their things? An offer may be welcome.

Try: "Would you like a hand?"

Wait for their agreement and instructions. Don't take a dog's lead and don't move a crate on your own initiative.

3. Keep dog-to-dog meetings optional

Two dogs waiting side by side don't necessarily need to get acquainted.

Try: "Would you prefer us to keep a bit of distance?"

The AKC article on show etiquette stresses the importance of controlling dogs and respecting their limits in a shared space.

Advanced: contributing to a good atmosphere

1. Ask before giving advice

Spotted a way to improve a presentation? First check that the person wants your opinion, especially just after their judging.

Try: "If you're interested, I can share a trick I use in training."

Advice that is accepted is more likely to help than a correction thrown out in front of everyone.

2. Welcome beginners without making them uncomfortable

Numbers, classes and calls are not obvious at a first show. If someone is hesitating, simply explain what you know.

Try: "The ring steward will be able to confirm when to go in; I can show you who to ask."

Avoid "Everyone knows that." You had a first time too.

3. Let everyone tell their own result

Some exhibitors want to celebrate straight away; others prefer to catch their breath or understand their judge's report.

Try: "How did your run go?"

Avoid asking for the grade, reading a document left on a table or posting someone else's result without talking to them. For photos and posts, the Royal Kennel Club's code of conduct recommends respecting privacy and asking permission in situations involving identifiable people.

The little MyDogShow reflex

"Is that all right with you?"

For a spot, a conversation, some help or a piece of advice, this little question avoids a lot of awkwardness.