Get Your Vet To Check Your Dog
Make sure your dog is up to date on all visits and shots. Before going to a show where your dog will likely be in contact with many dogs from many different countries, a trip to the vet will make sure after you return you will continue to have a sound dog. Core shots like DHPP (distemper shot) and rabies are a given, but bordetella and influenza sometimes can be overlooked. The latter two shots are especially important anytime your dog is in contact with a group of dogs.
Most dog shows do require proof of vaccinations before allowing a dog to show. Try to make this visit for 6 months or so before the show date. As well as getting shots updated, this is a good time to take care of problems like anal sac inflammations, and ear infections. Your vet can, also, give you a good idea on food and supplements.
At the highest level of conformation shows, particular care and focus should be had over the dog’s skin and coat.
Invest In a High-Quality Diet
Nutrition is an often overlooked item in the preparation for a show, but it matters. Of course, a dog owner will always want the best health for a dog. However, much of how dog performances and shows depend on the adequate diet. Does your dog have a few pounds to lose? Or a bit on the slim side? These issues should be part of the ongoing preparation that you do one year to six months prior to the show date. The label should obviously say certified complete and balanced.
Supplements for dogs have limited value. In general, supplements should be avoided because the industry is not well regulated. Plenty of consumer studies have shown that the buyer’s dog doesn’t even get what is contained in the bottle half the time. However, a supplement of essential fatty acids, (i.e. fish oil) has some value in getting your dog a healthy looking coat. Look for a supplement that has a lot number and a verification by a third-party agency that the bottle contains what it says to contain.
A list-maker to top all list-makers
I’m a serial list maker, especially when packing. I have so many lists. I have lists of my lists.
But it appears I’ve been outdone in the list-making department.
Maria Crifasi, who is getting ready to leave for her 12th National Specialty, has the best packing list of all – and it’s hysterical.
Maria, a Berner owner since 1999, has graciously allowed me to share her list with you.
So I’ve ditched my list for hers. Enjoy!
How to get started in Dog Showing
If youre going to pursue the dog show hobby, then youll need to learn all about dog show supply sources and the tools of the trade. Supplement your basic list with additional accessories as you compete in more shows.
The list of dog show supplies you will need can be quite extensive if you are serious about becoming a top exhibitor. However, the following list of basic supplies will get you through your initial entry into the hobby.
Many show participants purchase special dog grooming boxes or bags for their grooming supplies, or a tool bag or box from a home improvement store makes an excellent substitute.
Also referred to as leashes, but with a difference. Leashes typically attach to a standard dog collar. Show leads are usually a one-piece unit with a loop and an adjustable slide that makes up the collar.
Whether for travel or exercise, dogs are not allowed to roam freely at any dog show for the safety of all concerned. There are many styles of crates including the airline-type, open-wire crates and fold-up canvas travel crates. In addition to the crate, you will need:
In addition to a crate, some exhibitors will bring a fold-up x-pen with them so they can allow their dog some more room to move about and stretch their legs. Not all shows will have areas where youll be able to take your dog for some exercise, so an x-pen is a useful alternative.
Always carry a supply of your dogs favorite treats which you can use for training during breaks to keep your dog occupied, as well as when you need to reward your dog during the show for good behavior (when allowed, of course!)
There are four main sources of dog showing accessories open to consumers, and each has a varying degree of usefulness.
These vendors can be found at nearly every dog show. The bigger the event, the greater the number of supply companies present. While you may pay slightly more for your supplies here, these vendors have the specialized equipment most dog show exhibitors are looking for like fancy show dog collars and professional grooming products. Sometimes the immediate convenience outweighs the added expense.
These sites are usually considered the second tier of suppliers for most exhibitors. They often have better pricing and are fine if you can wait for a shipment. However, you will have to pay shipping in many all cases which could offset your initial savings.
You will often find here the same specialized dog show items such as show leads, dog grooming supplies and dog show equipment carts. These items are often not available at local pet shops. Many exhibitors will find these catalogs in their mailbox once they have entered a few shows, as these companies comb dog show catalogs for exhibitor contacts.
Stores such as PetsMart, Petco and Pet Supplies Plus carry many useful dog show items such as crates, and some dog feeding and grooming supplies. If you can find exactly what youre looking for here, you may be able to combine savings and convenience. The problem is these retail chains often do not carry specialized dog show items.