Level 1Beginner
Who does what around the ring?
The answer
One person examines the dogs, another writes, a third calls out numbers… At your first show, it's hard to know who to talk to!
The judge assesses, the secretary records, the ring steward organises and the handler accompanies their dog. Here are the roles to recognise so you feel more at ease.
The judge: assesses the dogs
The judge examines the dogs against their breed standard. They decide the grades and the placings. They are also in charge of the ring.
While you are in the ring, listen to their instructions: where to stand, when to trot your dog and when to stop.
The secretary: keeps a record of the judging
The secretary is responsible, among other things, for writing the report where one is provided for, and for the administrative follow-up of the results.
Think of them as the ring's written memory: they record the judge's comments. They do not choose the placings.
The ring steward: keeps things moving
The steward helps gather the dogs by class, spots the absentees and organises the entries according to the judge's instructions.
They are usually your first point of contact for a practical question: "Has my class already been called?" or "Where should I wait?"
The exact split of tasks between the secretary and the steward can vary from team to team.
FCI — Dog Show Regulations, page 17, heading "Management of rings and assistants" (PDF).
The handler: accompanies the dog
The handler takes the dog around the ring, helps it stand and makes the examination easier. You can take on this role yourself or ask someone else to show your dog.
The word handler simply means the person presenting the dog; it does not automatically mean "professional".
Centrale Canine (the French kennel club) — "Can someone else show my dog?".
What about everyone else?
An interpreter can help with communication if needed. The organisers run the show as a whole. Spectators watch from outside the ring.
To avoid distracting the dogs, keep your cheering discreet and ask the owner's permission before approaching their companion.
Who should you ask?
| Your question | Your first point of contact |
|---|---|
| "When do I go in?" | The ring steward |
| "Where do I collect my judging sheet?" | The secretary, when they are free |
| "There is a mistake in my entry." | The show secretariat; let the ring staff know as well |
| "Where should I trot my dog?" | The judge, while you are in the ring |
Beginner: finding your bearings
- Introduce yourself to the ring staff. Give your number and say it is your first show.
- Keep your number visible. It helps them spot you quickly.
- Watch a class before yours. You will understand the calls and the movements better.
Intermediate: making the team's job easier
- Stay available near the ring. Plan your breaks by keeping an eye on how the judging is progressing.
- Ask your questions at the right moment. Wait for an opening rather than interrupting an examination.
- Flag any problem quickly. A wrong class or a change of handler should be brought to the staff's attention.
Advanced: keeping your turn smooth
- Plan ahead for your different entries. Spot any clashes in timing and let the teams concerned know.
- Respond simply to instructions. Calm, clear gestures make it easier to watch the dog.
- Leave space for the other teams. Get ready without blocking the entrance or getting in the way of movement.
These nine tips are practical suggestions. The FCI regulations cited cover international shows awarding the CACIB.
Illustration caption: the secretary writes, the judge examines, the handler accompanies and the ring steward welcomes the next entrants.