Dog shows often look simple from the outside, but once you step into the ring, things are not as straightforward as they look.
There are many resources online, but most of them stay on the surface. Here, you will see what really happens in practice and what beginners should know before their first show.
I will use Sarplaninac dogs as examples based on my experience.
In the ring, the goal is to beat the other dogs, but not in the way most people think. The dog wins if it is closer to the breed standard while showing the right character, moving the way it should, and with the coat in good condition.
Judges look at all of this together, not just one thing.
Choosing Puppies from the Litter
Not all puppies in a litter have exhibition potential! There are exceptions, especially when the litter is small, but in most cases, the differences are clear.
The breed standard defines what is expected, and some flaws are easy to spot.
When it comes to Sarplaninac dogs, a higher price usually means the dog has both stable character and real show potential.
Obedience Training
When you have a young dog with potential, the work begins. One of the first things you should teach your pet is to allow its teeth to be checked.
After that, the dog needs to learn to stand still in position (a few seconds). The judge must be able to look at the body, coat, testicles without any problems.
Starting early always makes a difference.
Leash
If your dog already knows the basic commands, you can start leash training.
The first step is to put on a collar and attach the leash. Let him get used to it by walking around the house without pulling. The goal is for him to walk next to you without tension.
Sarplaninac puppies usually resist the leash at first. This is normal and part of the process.
In those moments, it’s better to leave him on the leash in one place and let him calm down, while keeping an eye on him. With time, he gets used to it.
After revaccination, start going outside. Choose quiet places with little noise and few people, such as a football field or a park early in the morning.
The goal is to have a well-balanced dog.
Hair
Coat condition matters more than most people expect.
Regular brushing keeps the coat clean and in good shape. Bathing is also important, but it has to be done at the right time, not just before the show.
If you want to see how we prepare our Sarplaninacs for the dog show, you can watch the video below.
A Few Words About Dog Shows …
These events are organized by cynological associations, where dogs are judged according to the breed standard that describes the ideal dog.
The one that fits that standard better on that day wins. Others are rated lower depending on how far they are from it.
Only purebred dogs that are at least three months old can take part.
The most important thing to understand is this: what is shown in the ring at that moment is what counts.
If there are signs of fear, a low tail, or lack of ring training, that is what gets judged.
What happens outside the ring does not matter.
Entering the Ring
The moment you enter the ring, the first impression matters a lot.
Take your place in the line with the other handlers and set your dog up, making sure the legs, tail, and neck are in the right position.
The judge looks at how the dog behaves in the ring, along with its physical traits.
He goes over the body and coat and sees how close or far the dog is from the breed standard.
Self-Confidence
Your dog should move on your left side, looking forward and ignoring the others in the ring.
Some handlers try to control the head position with the leash to keep it up while moving.
I don’t consider that fair!
The judge may ask you to make a few laps in the ring so he can see your pet from the side, front, and back. Any stiff dog movement leads to a lower rating or even disqualification.
Those that stand out in movement are confident and relaxed.
The connection between handler and dog matters, as well as how you are dressed.
Picking a Winner
The judge may make a short selection, after which the dogs that are picked will have to make a few more laps in the ring.
One dog wins the title, the others get grades from excellent to insufficient.
Winners from different classes (males, females, juniors, adults) compete for BOB – Best of Breed.
Dogs that get BOB go on to compete in their FCI group.
Group winners compete for Best in Show – the most beautiful dog of the show.
My Experience
Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Our kennel has achieved excellent results, and I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone.
What matters most to me is the behavior of the dog representing our kennel, especially movement in the ring.
Did he attract attention? Did he move with confidence? Was there any fear or aggression toward others? These are the questions that matter.
Titles and prizes come second, and the judge’s decision must be respected on the day.
However, I react immediately when I see injustice. Then I do a detailed analysis, publish a video on our YouTube channel, and let people judge for themselves.
At the same time, I understand that FCI judges have very little time to see every strength and fault of each dog.
I also respect those who explain their decisions out loud so the audience can learn something.
Whether I agree or not, that is part of the process.
But I will never allow anyone to put down my dogs or the kennel!
Most entry fees are between $20 and $30, while larger shows like Westminster can cost around $100. It depends on the organizer.
There are several reasons: breed standard, grade “EXCELLENT” so that the dog could go further in breeding and disqualification – lack of teeth, the impossibility of a dental exam, the dog’s jaw.
Neutered or spayed dogs aren’t allowed to compete in purebred shows. Dogs with serious faults, health problems, or aggressive behavior can also be disqualified.
There is no strict dress code, but what you wear matters. Avoid colors similar to your dog’s coat – for example, if the dog is black, choose something lighter so it stands out.
Ready to Step Into the Ring?
Dog shows exist to evaluate breeding dogs according to the breed standard.
At the same time, they are part of the experience – dogs get used to the environment, and handlers gain real experience in the ring.
Our kennel wishes you a lot of success at dog shows! If you understand what matters and stay consistent, results will come with time.
