Level 1Beginner
What to do while you wait?
The answer
Keeping your dog ready for the ring
At a show, a few minutes in the ring can be preceded by a long wait. The best plan: rest, short outings and light preparation, while keeping track of the judging.
The Centrale Canine (the French kennel club) points out that the wait between classes can be long and advises bringing what you need to settle in, drink and eat. [Source 1]
Beginner — Setting up a comfortable break
- Give it a place to settle
Set out its mat in a permitted spot, without blocking the aisles or the ring entrance. Stay near it and let it rest.
The Royal Kennel Club (the UK kennel club) recommends finding your ring, then giving the dog time to settle in and relax. [Source 2]
- Offer water regularly
Keep the bowl within reach and offer a drink during the wait. Water and a bowl are among the essentials recommended by the Centrale Canine. [Source 1]
The tip: check that a bowl placed on the floor stays clean and doesn't get in the way.
- Plan a short toilet break
When the schedule allows, take your dog to the permitted area for its needs. Keep it on a lead and pick up its mess.
The tip: find out how your class is progressing before you go away.
Intermediate — Filling the wait without tiring it out
- Watch a few runs
Look at the movements asked for, where exhibitors wait and how they go in. The Royal Kennel Club advises beginners to watch one or two classes before their own. [Source 2]
- Do a short rehearsal, if it's useful
A few steps, a pause standing, a reward… then back to rest. Choose a spot where you won't be in anyone's way.
The tip: one small success is enough. There's no need to turn the whole wait into a training session.
- Choose the meetings
Ask other owners' permission before approaching and leave space between dogs. Your companion can take in the atmosphere without greeting all its neighbours.
The tip: if it prefers to stay quietly on its mat, respect that break.
Advanced — Adjusting to the dog and the schedule
- Adapt the spot to its comfort
If your dog struggles to settle in a busy thoroughfare, look for a quieter permitted spot. Also check shade, ventilation and shelter from rain.
The FCI puts health and wellbeing first and, in particular, prohibits leaving a dog in a car in excessive heat or cold. [Source 3, section 4, page 4]
- Get your equipment ready before the class is called
Number attached, lead ready, rewards within reach: then you can wait calmly. Keep grooming touch-ups to what's necessary.
The tip: get your things ready while your dog rests, rather than keeping it standing.
- Keep an eye on the ring
Follow the progress and the announcements. The Royal Kennel Club points out that several breeds may follow one another and that ring changes are possible. [Source 2] If someone is with you, they can watch for calls during a short outing; however, confirm the instructions yourself with the secretary's office.
Just before your turn
- My dog has had the chance to rest.
- I have offered it water.
- Its toilet break is done, if needed.
- My number and my equipment are ready.
- I know which class is currently being judged.