5 Tips for a Successful Dog Show (+ Checklist!)

Are you planning to enter a dog show with your dog? Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-timer, a dog show can be an exciting but also very demanding experience. Proper preparation is key if you want to present your dog in the best possible light and impress the judge.

In this article, we’ll share 5 valuable tips to help you and your dog shine in front of the judge—from perfect grooming to a confident performance in the ring!

1. Training for the dog show

Training for your dog’s first show should ideally begin when he is still a puppy. It is important to get your dog used to the show lead early on and to practice the routines in the ring, such as walking in a circle behind other dogs. Your dog should also learn to present itself calmly and allow a stranger to touch it. This is because the judge will want to touch your dog and may even look into its mouth to check its teeth. It is also recommended to participate in a special ring training session to practice behavior in a show setting under realistic conditions. It’s best to check with your local kennel club to find out where such training is offered near you.

2. Grooming Before the Dog Show

Thorough grooming of your dog before the show is essential—after all, you want to show him off at his best. For dogs with long coats, remove any mats and carefully detangle the fur. Also, trim your dog’s nails and clean his ears and eyes. Be sure to take breed-specific characteristics into account as well. Some breeds require special coat care or a specific haircut. If your dog needs a lot of grooming, a visit to the groomer shortly before the show can ensure the perfect finish.

3. A quiet spot for your dog at the dog show

Dog shows are always associated with a lot of commotion and stress for your dog. So make sure to provide a cozy place for your dog to retreat to. This could be a crate or a comfortable bed—the main thing is that your dog has a chance to relax and unwind. This is also where they can retreat if the commotion becomes too much.  A quiet place to rest helps reduce stress and maintain focus for the show in the ring. Since wait times are often long, don’t forget to bring a folding chair or another place to sit for yourself!

4. CBD for relaxation and improved concentration

For dogs that get particularly stressed or nervous at dog shows, CBD products—such as CBD oil —can be a helpful aid. CBD promotes relaxation in a completely natural way while also improving focus—this allows your four-legged friend to handle the hustle and bustle of the event with greater composure and perform better in the ring.

Ideally, you should start giving your dog CBD early on and even before training. On the one hand, this has the advantage of positively influencing training and helping your dog stay more focused. On the other hand, when administering CBD, it’s important to build up a “CBD level” very gradually—that is, slowly increase the dosage until you reach about 1 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight per day. You can read more about CBD dosing for dogs here. 

5. Packing List for the Dog Show

Being well-prepared is essential for a relaxed and successful dog show. It’s best to make a packing list in advance so you don’t forget anything and can focus on what matters most on the big day. Here’s a checklist of the essentials:

• Show lead – You'll need a special show lead for the show.
• EU Pet Passport – You need the pet passport to prove your dog’s vaccination status.
• Registration documents and race number – Make sure you have both of these documents on hand. There are also special race number holders available so you can attach your race number to your clothing where it’s clearly visible.
• Appropriate clothing – Choose clothing that isn’t too flashy, but ideally matches your dog. Contrasting colors work especially well, since a black dog is hard to see against a black outfit.
• Crate or blanket – see the section titled “Safe Space”
• Your dog – Don't forget the most important thing 😉