Level 1Beginner
What to put in your bag?
The answer
The essentials for a well-prepared show day
The judge calls your number. You look for the lead… which is under the towel, behind the bowl. To avoid this little treasure hunt, pack your bag by use: the papers, the dog's things and your own comfort.
For a show in France. The organisation tips below are practical advice; the requirements of the event should be checked with the organiser.
Beginner — The three must-haves
- A folder for the papers
Gather the birth certificate or pedigree, the I-CAD card (the French pet identification record), the health record and, depending on your situation, the passport and any health documents required. Add your invitation and your exhibitor number when available.
MyDogShow tip: Bring the documents showing origin, identification and health, along with your entry number. Having them in your bag does not mean they will all necessarily be checked at the entrance.
The tip: put the folder at the top of the bag, safe from water-bottle leaks.
- Something to drink, walk and reward with
MyDogShow tip: Bring water, a bowl, a lead, a suitable collar and rewards your dog enjoys: these are the day's essentials.
The tip: use treats your dog already knows, in small pieces. Show morning is not the best time to try out a new recipe!
- Something to wait comfortably
MyDogShow tip: Add a mat your dog knows. For you: a drink, a snack and, if the venue allows, a folding chair, as the wait between judgings can be long.
The tip: think about your whole day, not just the few minutes in the ring.
Intermediate — The three useful extras
- A kit for staying clean
Slip in some poo bags, a towel and a small bag to keep wet or dirty things separate.
The tip: keep a roll of bags in an outside pocket. You will find it without putting all your things on the ground.
- A simple grooming kit
Take the brush or comb that suits your dog's coat, one you already know how to use.
At FCI international shows, substances that alter the structure, colour or shape of the coat, skin or nose are prohibited. [Source 1, section 4, page 6]
The tip: do the main preparation at home; at the venue, plan mostly for small touch-ups.
- A "just before the ring" pouch
Put together the lead used for showing, the rewards and a number holder if you use one. The ring is the space where the judging takes place.
The tip: this pouch should come out of the bag in one move. Practise finding its contents without searching.
Advanced — The three planning reflexes
- A small emergency equipment kit
A spare lead and collar can save the day if a clip breaks or you lose your gear.
The tip: check the clips, buckles and collar size the day before. A backup item must be usable immediately.
- Equipment suited to the venue
Outdoors, think about rain, sun and ground conditions: waterproof clothing, an extra towel and a shade solution allowed by the organiser.
These practical choices serve a regulatory priority: the dog's welfare. The FCI specifically prohibits leaving a dog in a car in excessive heat or cold. [Source 1, section 4, page 4]
The tip: check the weather and the venue's rules before loading the car.
- A bag ready for the next show
After the show, wash the bowl, dry the towel, remove any food scraps and replace anything that is missing.
The tip: keep a checklist in the bag. Next time you will check its contents instead of rebuilding everything from memory.
The checklist before you leave
- Documents and invitation.
- Water and bowl.
- Suitable lead and collar.
- Usual rewards.
- Poo bags and towel.
- Resting mat.
- Brush or comb.
- Exhibitor number and fastener, as provided for.
- Drink, snack and personal items.
- Spare equipment and weather gear, if needed.