My dog is overexcited at the show: how can I help him come down?

This agitation can come from enthusiasm, but also from frustration or stress. An overwhelmed dog may struggle to respond to requests he actually knows very well. The aim: to help him regain enough calm to enjoy the experience. [1]

Beginner — Bringing the agitation down

1. Move away from what is winding him up

If every dog that goes past sets off leaps, leave the ringside for a while. Look for a quieter spot and increase the distance. See whether he can look at you again and move more calmly. [1, 2]

To try: take a break off to one side before coming back, rather than asking for repeated “sits” in the middle of the walkway.

2. Keep interactions peaceful

Speak softly and avoid gestures that excite him further. Reward a simple behaviour: four paws on the floor or a few calm steps. Shouting and punishment don’t teach him what to do instead. [1, 2]

The good reflex: spot that split second of calm and reward it.

3. Leave room for rest

Before the show, offer an outing suited to his age and health, with time for sniffing. Also protect his sleep. Excessive activity can tire him to the point of making rest harder. [2]

To remember: a well-prepared day includes movement, exploration and breaks.

Intermediate — Learning calm before the big day

1. Make the mat a place to chill

At home, put a comfortable mat in a quiet room. Quietly reward relaxed behaviour: he settles on it, lets his body go loose or rests his head. At first, a few moments are enough. [3]

The idea: build a habit that you can then use during the waits at shows.

2. Add distractions gradually

When he relaxes easily at your home, practise in another quiet place. Then introduce a mild distraction, such as a person passing at a distance. If he can no longer settle, increase the distance or simplify the situation. [3]

Note: lying down with a tense body doesn’t necessarily mean being relaxed.

3. Prepare a short wait

Practise asking him to stay briefly in a familiar position. Reward while he holds it, then release him. Lengthen the duration in small steps, in short sessions. [3]

Application in the ring: for the standing position used in showing, start with one comfortable second, reward, then give a break. This example adapts the principles of progression to showing.

Advanced — Building a tailor-made preparation

1. Spot the moment when excitement rises

Observe the circumstances: arriving at the venue, the closeness of dogs, waiting or someone approaching. Also note when he stops responding as usual. These observations will help you step in earlier. [1]

Example: if he stays responsive at a distance but gets carried away at the ringside, work first from the zone where he succeeds.

2. Rehearse a short show sequence

Here is a practical exercise based on short sessions and gradual progression: a few steps on the lead, a brief stand, a reward, then a break. Add distractions only when this sequence remains easy. [3]

The criterion for moving on: he can take part without being constantly re-engaged or held back.

3. Plan when to stop

If he leaps around without being able to recover, mouths people or becomes difficult to handle safely, take him away and stop the preparation or the presentation. If the agitation persists, appears suddenly or disturbs his rest, consult a vet; behavioural support can complement the assessment. [1, 2]

Your best indicator of progress: a dog who regains his calm more easily and stays available at your side.