Your First Dog Show

These are things that every newbie should remember to do before their first dog show

• You can enter your dog online. The most commonly used website is http://www.infodog.com, which allows you to enter any dog show in any part of the United States. Many of the show superintedents also have online entry forms.
• Make sure to know the grooming requirements of your breed. Many breeds must be bathed a few days before the show, and some should be bathed the night before the show. It can also depend on your dog’s individual coat.
• Get maps to the city where the show is located, and make sure to plan a route. Also know how to get to the show. This can often be found in the premium lists, but these maps are often incorrect. I suggest using http://www.mapquest.com to get more accurate directions.
• Make sure the vehicle you are taking is roadworthy.
• Try to show up at the show site the night before, so that you can set up any of your equipment. This is especially important if you have grooming tables, or need electrical outlets for appliances. Plug in anything you need to the night before, so that you have the number of plugs you need.
• When plugging in appliances, be considerate of other exhibitors. Everyone needs outlets, so try not to take too many. If you have a lot of things to plug in, bring a power strip.
• Make hotel reservations in advance. The premium lists should have a listing of hotels that allow dogs. This is useful, but these hotels can fill up fast. There is also a book distributed by AAA called “Traveling With Pets”, that lists hotels that allow dogs.
• If you are traveling a long distance, plan extra time into your trip to let your dog go to the bathroom.
• Practice traveling with your dog. Make sure he is comfortable riding in a crate, and will use the bathroom on a leash. Some dogs will not use the bathroom on a leash if they have not been accustomed to doing so.
• Plan your show outfit before going to the show. Make sure you are comfortable moving in your outfit, and can comfortably bend down to your dog’s level. Also keep in mind that you will need a place to keep treats or toys for your dog.
• While all of these things will help you prepare for your first show, you should try to visit a dog show without your dog, before going to a show with your dog. This will enable you to see what other people do at shows, and what they bring. It will also help you to understand why some of these things are important.