Can you touch another exhibitor's dog?

The dog may be waiting for its turn, enjoying a break or coming out of a long preparation. Before reaching out a hand, one small question makes all the difference: "May I pet him?"

Beginner: ask before you touch

1. Wait for a real "yes"

Speak to the owner or the handler, then wait for their answer before putting out a hand. A smile or a wagging tail is not a substitute for permission.

The American Kennel Club explicitly recommends asking before petting a dog at a show. [1]

2. Accept a refusal gracefully

"Not now" can mean that the dog is about to go into the ring, needs some quiet or doesn't much like contact with strangers.

The right reply: "No problem, good luck!" There's no point insisting with "But dogs love me".

3. Respect its resting space

Don't put your fingers into a crate or pen, even if the dog comes up to the bars. Ask the person looking after it how to meet it.

With a child: supervise each approach and remind them that we ask before touching. The AKC's official guidance advises against letting children approach dogs abruptly or put their hands into their crates. [1]

Intermediate: choosing the moment and the gesture

1. Prefer a quiet moment after the turn

Just before going into the ring, the team is getting ready and concentrating. Wait until they have finished and are available.

The tip: start with "Do you have a moment?" rather than interrupting the final preparations. The AKC advises waiting until the end of the presentation to start the conversation. [2]

2. Let the dog choose to come closer

Even with its human's agreement, don't pursue a dog that backs away or turns its head. Avoid putting a hand under its nose or leaning over it.

If it comes over calmly, ask where to pet it. The AKC recommends letting the dog take the initiative for contact and favouring the side of the body or the chest rather than the head. [3]

3. Respect the grooming work

An immaculate coat can represent a lot of preparation. Before touching, ask: "Where can I pet him without disturbing his coat?"

Avoid lifting an ear, handling the tail or checking the teeth out of curiosity. A pat is not an examination! The AKC article on show etiquette notably reminds you to take grooming into account. [1]

Advanced: setting an example

1. Ask for specific permission for any handling

Helping to hold a dog, adjusting its presentation or simulating an examination calls for a separate request.

A useful phrase: "Would you like me to help you hold him?" Wait for the handler's instructions and stop if the dog is uncomfortable.

2. Keep treats in your pocket without permission

Permission to pet does not mean you can feed. Ask separately before offering a treat, then let the owner choose what is suitable.

The tip: to get acquainted, a calm presence is often enough. You don't need to convince the dog to come over.

3. Protect concentration during judging

If you know the dog being shown, resist the urge to call it or put out a hand from the edge.

The official rule: attracting the dog's attention from outside the ring is "double handling". The FCI regulations forbid it and provide for the grade "Cannot be judged". [4]

The little MyDogShow reflex

I ask the human, I let the dog come to me and I respect the right moment.

And if the meeting is limited to admiring the dog from a distance, that's already a lovely meeting!