Do This, Not That

Hello, dog show enthusiasts! I’m Allison from Leading Edge Dog Show Academy, and today we're diving into the essential dos and don'ts of presenting your dog to the judge, particularly during the crucial judge's exam. We like to call this segment "Do This, Not That."

At Leading Edge Dog Show Academy, our mission is to equip handlers with the skills they need to shine in the ring. While today's focus is just a snippet of what we offer, I encourage you to explore our full course content at Leading Edge Dog Show Academy.

The Judge’s Exam: A Critical Moment

When the judge approaches your dog for the individual exam, it’s vital to understand what to prioritize. One common mistake is stacking your dog's rear while the judge is approaching from the front. This can lead to missed opportunities to present your dog effectively. Instead, focus on ensuring that the front of your dog looks perfect. As a new handler, your primary concern should be your dog's front presentation rather than the rear.

Control the Head for a Perfect Front

When the judge examines your dog's front, controlling their head is key. A relaxed or uncontrolled head can lead to a poor view of your dog's topline and overall appearance. Here’s what to do:

Maintain Control: Keep your dog's head steady to showcase its best features. Support your dog throughout the examination process to create structure and tension, helping your pup look their best.

Don't Ignore the Rear During Examination

Another common pitfall occurs when handlers get too caught up in the front presentation during the judge’s examination of the rear. It’s important to remember that the examination is not over until the judge completes their assessment.

To do this correctly:

Stay Engaged: Pay close attention to where the judge's hands are going and support your dog's topline throughout the evaluation.

Positioning: Keep a hand under your dog's belly to maintain their stance and help avoid any unwanted movement.

The Importance of Awareness and Support

Before the judge examines your dog, be aware of their approach. If the judge comes from the front, ensure your dog is perfectly stacked, and you have control of their head. When asked to show the bite, direct the dog’s mouth towards the judge, clearly showcasing the teeth. It might take a bit of adjustment, but maintaining control over your dog's posture will help present an ideal image.

Completing the Exam Successfully

As the judge moves down your dog, support their rear to prevent them from sitting or moving away. If the judge checks the testicles, briefly remove your hand to allow the judge unobstructed access, then return it discreetly afterward.

Finally, as the judge wraps up the examination and steps away, make sure your dog maintains its outline without collapsing. When the judge calls for movement, reward your dog for their good behavior, reinforcing positive experiences in the ring.