Level 1Beginner
What to pack in the dog’s bag?
The answer
His essentials for a day at a show
If your dog packed his own bag, he would probably start with the treats. It’s up to you to add the water, the resting gear and a few useful accessories! The aim: to have what you need to look after him from arrival until you head home.
Beginner — The essentials
- Water and his bowl
Bring drinking water for the journey and the show, with a bowl that is easy to clean. Offer him a drink regularly.
The good habit: keep the bowl within reach rather than at the bottom of the bag.
- A suitable lead and collar
Take the equipment he normally uses for travelling. If you use a specific lead for showing, add it too and check its condition before you leave.
The good habit: try the equipment out in training before using it in competition.
- His favourite rewards
Prepare a few treats he knows, in small pieces, in a sealed pouch. A familiar toy can also serve as a reward.
The good habit: choose what he really likes, without piling on new things.
MyDogShow tip: water, bowl, lead, collar and rewards are the basics of your show bag.
Intermediate — Extra comfort
- His resting mat
A mat or blanket he is used to gives him a place to settle while he waits. Choose one that is easy to carry and wash.
The tip: get him used to relaxing on it at home before taking it with you.
- A small cleaning kit
Bring poo bags, a towel and a bag to keep dirty or wet things separate.
The tip: the towel can be useful after a trip out in the rain or for wiping his paws before showing.
- His brush or comb
Take only the tools suited to his coat and that you know how to use. A few touch-ups are often enough after the journey.
On the rules: at an FCI international show, substances that alter the structure, colour or shape of the coat, skin or nose are prohibited. [Source 2, section 4, page 6]
Advanced — Planning for the unexpected
- A spare lead and collar
A broken fastening or a forgotten accessory can complicate the day. A small spare set takes up little room.
The tip: check the spare equipment too: size, stitching and fastenings.
- His usual food, if necessary
If the trip covers a mealtime, bring a portion of his usual food in a closed container, with an extra bowl if needed.
The tip: plan his meal around his routine and your schedule, rather than relying on treats all day.
- Gear suited to the weather
Add an extra towel in case of rain and plan a sheltered resting spot. For an outdoor show, check the options for shade and the equipment the organiser allows.
On the rules: the FCI requires the dog’s welfare to be protected and in particular prohibits leaving him in a car in excessive heat or cold. [Source 2, section 4, page 4]
His checklist to tick off
- Drinking water and bowl.
- Suitable lead and collar.
- Show equipment, if different.
- Usual treats and perhaps a toy.
- Resting mat or blanket.
- Poo bags.
- Towel and bag for dirty items.
- Suitable brush or comb.
- Spare lead and collar.
- Usual meal if necessary.
The packing tip: one pocket for drinking, one for showing and one for cleaning. You’ll quickly find what your dog needs.