Show Dogs Training - How to Train a Show Dog

Major dog shows are held worldwide, and over 130 different breeds compete in shows, such as the Westminster in the US or Crufts in the UK. Establishing a good show dog requires a high level of commitment, time energy and rigorous training though.

Dogs, like humans, are all individuals, so even amongst well known show breeds, there will be dogs that are not show material. Dogs that fit the ‘ideal’ have quite specific conformation – distinct positioning of parts - legs, tail, head, ears, etc - that determine the dog's appearance. Show dogs are usually the offspring of other show dogs, as conformation is difficult to judge in young puppies.

Once you have selected a pup, you're ready to begin a dedicated training regimen. Across several months, and sometimes years, trainers first teach the ‘basics’, and then move to more advanced behaviors, training daily. Sit, stay, heel, and so on are covered, but more attention is paid to precision with these movements.

Under the scrutiny of large crowds and judges a show dog has to hit a mark (a specific spot in a show ring), pose ('stack') exactly, and walk in tune with its handler.

Beginning training young is the key. Along with the basic behaviors, you'll need to teach the dog to be calm in the face of much handling. Judges will inspect eyes, teeth and other body parts along with the coat and general posture.

One of the best ways to begin the process is through bathing. Teach the dog to enjoy having its feet moved, its gums exposed, ears fondled and so forth. This should be pleasurable for the dog and fun for you. You’re on your way to success if you can teach them to defer shaking vigorously when wet!

Practice posing ('stacking') during and after the bath. In the show ring, all feet on the ground, one foot raised, standing and sitting, and other postures will all be needed. In every instance the dog needs to hold the pose precisely and for as long as you wish.

The goal when leash training the dog to walk, is to get them to follow you exactly whichever way you choose to go at any given second. Start with normal walking/heeling, but move to sharp direction changes quickly.

Utilize a clicker when executing a change to encourage the dog to follow, or give a quick, sharp tug and release on the leash. Of course, the tug should be in the direction you go. The dog should always be directly at your side, never ahead or behind.

Graduate to walking on a very loose leash. With training the dog should be able to follow along at a brisk pace and sense immediately when you change direction. It should then turn as you do and resume the 'at the side' position.

Gradually increase the speed of the walk until you work up to a slow trot.

Just as important is to stop at the precise moment you do. The dog can quickly learn to follow with a clicker or tug and release method. Go when you go, stop when you stop, for as long as you stop or walk. Only the slightest indication on the leash should be needed before long.

Praise, and a sense of fun is always useful with any training program. While often temperamental, show dogs usually take enjoyment from competing in the ring. Without enjoyment for you or the dog, an endeavor into the show world will be futile.

         

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