Many owners ask, "Can I Show My Dog?" and wish to experience the thrill of the ring.

Dog Shows: A Primer

To an outsider, the world of dog show competition can seem overwhelming and filled with rules and regulations. And it can be just that, if you don't have a little bit of information before starting. It is not recommended for beginners to jump into the fray without knowing exactly what they're getting into.

Dog shows have been held for centuries throughout the world, and the "sport" has evolved into a huge variety of competitions, classes, and expectations. The Westminster Kennel Club (WKC), founded in 1877, and the American Kennel Club (AKC), founded in 1884, is the premier dog-showing organizations in the United States today.

Each dog show has very strict requirements for participants, both human and canine alike. At the top echelons of the game, the dogs must be purebred, and must have all the desirable characteristics of the breed. The human handler must know how to give the proper commands to the dog, and be familiar with the process of guiding the animal around the ring and through whatever paces the judges require.

Show dogs must typically be practically perfect specimens of their breed, highly trained and able to withstand an incredible amount of activity, discipline, noise, and anxiety.

How to Get Started

If you have a purebred dog and you wish to participate in dog shows beyond the annual pet parade in the neighborhood, consider joining a local kennel club. If you have a Dalmatian, check to see if your city or county has a Dalmatian club. Or, you can join a club that accepts all breeds. It's at this club that you'll learn the basics of showing your dog. You'll be able to participate in classes that teach ring etiquette, show basics, and obedience. You'll also have access to information about upcoming regional shows and competitions to start getting your feet wet. And last but not least, you'll meet other people who are interested in showing their dog, and many who are farther along in the process and can offer valuable points of advice.

If you love the thrill of the show but don't want to get down to the nitty-gritty, you can hire a professional handler to take care of the actual ring. You'll still be in charge, but will be able to benefit from the handler's years of experience and know-how.