Showing a dog can be exciting and rewarding, but novice handlers may find the protocol in the show ring confusing at first. Professional dog shows frequently have more than a thousand dogs entered, but your dog will only be judged against other dogs of the same breed, sex and age. Preparation is an important part of showing well, and your dog will benefit from practice sessions in which he learns how to stand and walk on cue.
Preparation
Give your dog a good wash & brush up the day before the show & make sure you trim any untidy hairs that may make his/her outline look untidy (it's often the little things that go a long way!). On the morning of the show, give your dog his usual excercise, but don't feed him. The excitement of the day might make him throw up! Make sure you have everything you need the night before - your show lead, brush/comb, treats or favourite toy, ring number clip (you'll be given your ring number on a piece of paper or card at the show) and portable water bowl.
Grooming
Staffords do not need a lot of grooming, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't do it! A hand mit with a rubber massager on one side and a velvety 'slicker' on the other is normally all you need. You might also want to take a coat conditioning spray (one that does not leave a residue in the coat and does not change the texture of the coat) to give your dog a final shine before you go into the ring.
Handler Grooming
Dogs are not the only ones that must look their best--handlers must look appropriate, too. Men usually wear suits and ties, and women wear dresses or skirts. High heels are inappropriate, however, because the handler must run in the ring if she is showing anything bigger than a toy breed dog.
Checking In
When you arrive at the show collect a catalogue and make sure that your dog's name & your own details have been entered correctly. If your dog's name is missing, or any of the details are incorrect, you should advise the show secretary immediately as otherwise any placings you might be lucky enough to get may be void! Find out which ring your breed will be in and go to it. Find out when your breed is likely to be judged and make sure you are there & ready to show in plenty of time - they won't wait for you!
The Ring
You will be given your ring number at the ringside, normally at the beginning of your first class. Clip it on to your ring clip, make your way into the ring and check with the ring steward how they want you to 'line up'. Some don't care what order you stand in, others want you to stand in number order. You will either form a circle around the ring with the other dogs & handlers, or line up either side. Put your dog in the 'stand' position & then watch the judge. Make sure that when the judge looks your way your dog is looking alert and tidy. Be polite to the judge & listen to what he asks you to do. Good luck!
