The top 10 things every practitioner needs to know about show dogs

Richard Paul/stock.adobe.com

I have had the pleasure of working with dogs involved with conformation for over 25 years. The range of dogs has been incredible, from owner-handled amateur dogs to ones that won Best in Show at the most prestigious events. There are definitely ‘ins’ to the dog show world. In addition to working with other conformation dogs, I’ve even been able to enjoy showing some of my own dogs. It allowed me more of an opportunity to learn more about the ins and outs of showing and what handlers, owners, and judges are looking for while still maintaining the health of the dog, which is my priority. I work in the field of canine physical rehabilitation, and most of the time, the dogs come in for anything from minor gait issues to major injuries.

One of the most incredible experiences I have had was working with the number one working dog – a Giant Schnauzer. We worked with him for conditioning during his showing. However, he sustained a traumatic incident of an acute carpal hyperextension injury. We all thought this would be career-ending for him as far as a conformation dog, but he received stem cell therapy and plasma-rich protein (PRP), bracing, and intensive physical rehabilitation with the goal of walking without significant lameness. At some point, his owners, handlers, and I realized his gait, movement, and function looked great. His range of motion and muscle girth had returned, and it was like his injury never occurred.

The owners and handlers decided to enter him in his ‘swan song’ – a major international dog show in Orlando, Florida. No one knew except his immediate team, and the decision to show him was finalized on the day of the competition to make sure he was at his best. He went on to win the breed for Giant Schnauzers, the working group, and Best in Show. This was his ‘giant’ comeback and his last show. He is now retired, and we now watch his son carry on the torch of his success.

Here are my top 10 takeaways:

1. Conformation and show dogs are the same thing. There are many different breeds shown in the American Kennel Club (AKC). When a dog wins the breed in a dog show, they will move into the groups. Each breed belongs to 1 of the 7 groups. The groups are working, sporting, herding, hound, toy, non-sporting, and terriers. The group competition will include all the breeds within the group. For example, in the sporting group, Labrador retrievers, Spaniels, Pointers, and other sporting dogs will compete again each other. If a dog wins their respective group, they move on to Best in Show. One dog will be awarded Best in Show, and second place is awarded Reserve Best in Show. Sizes of dog shows vary, and a series of points is used throughout the year to determine the statuses.
2. Many owners hire professional handlers to show their dogs. Professional handlers, as their name implies, show dogs for a living. They may work with 1 to 2 dogs or upwards of 20 with their staff. Some owners show their dogs themselves and the term owner-handled is utilized.
3. Many show dogs live with their professional handlers. The handlers spend a great deal of time with the dogs and can ascertain and detect if there are minor changes in their behavior, gait, movement, or eating habits. Some dogs live with their handlers for years, so handlers will know if something is wrong with the show dog, so listen to them.
4. The ‘show’ side is the left side of the dog. Show dogs will move in counterclockwise patterns in the ring as well as what is called down and backs. Even when presenting to the judges, dogs will present their left side. When circling, the right side requires a longer stride than the left side; this must be considered when evaluating hip and shoulder extension.
5. Hair or coat is a vital asset for show dogs. It can take up to a year to grow a proper coat, and many show dogs use more styling products than most people. Trimming, cutting, or damaging the show coat may be catastrophic for the dog’s career. Never shave the hair of the show dog unless it is absolutely necessary. Speak with the owner or handler and ask them if there is an area that may be shaved without too many consequences. Of course, this can be ignored in a life-or-death situation.
6. Conformation dogs may be working towards their championship, which requires 15 points and 2 majors. This may take a few shows or much longer, depending upon the breed and conformation of the dog. Dogs that have already received their championship may be ‘campaigned,’ meaning they compete against other champions, prestige, points towards rankings, and large shows.
7. Pacing is not an acceptable gait in the show ring. Owners will bring their dogs to you to discuss why they are pacing. The pacing may be secondary to orthopedic issues, stress, weakness, or problems with the handling.
8. Show dogs will tend to be a bit heavier while they are showing. Many handlers try to put some weight on them for the shows. Some breeds have a higher tendency for this than others. For example, Labrador Retrievers tend to be heavier for the show ring, while sighthounds may tend to be on the leaner side.
9. Many show dogs travel a great deal throughout the country and are exposed to different types of diseases. It is always important to ask where the dogs have traveled to determine if there has been a possible exposure to tick-borne illnesses, infections, and more.
10. Stress may be a huge component for some show dogs. The stress of traveling, grooming, showing, and being away from their home life, if applicable, may seriously impact some dogs, while some may not be affected at all. This must be considered when discussing treatment and diagnoses. Proactive approaches such as probiotics, vitamins, and other appropriate pharmaceutical interventions should be considered.

Working with conformation dogs has improved my understanding and knowledge of many breeds of dogs, their movement, breeding, and temperament. I have learned there is much more than fluff, pomp, and accolades. Focused breeding, health testing, nutrition, grooming, handling, exercise, and structured placement assist in the success of conformation dogs.