What happens at a dog show?

It might seem like a stupid question, but I've never been to one before

I've just started a dog walking business and a lady with a one year old Border Terrier has taken me on and asked me if I can accompany her to the Midlands Counties Canine Show at the end of October. My employer is disabled and wants me to exercise the dog while we are there, but I'm not sure if I'm to actually show her. I've been told there might be someone at the show who can show her instead of me, is this normal?

What happens on these days? Will there be a lot of waiting about or will we be able to watch what's going on? If I am asked to show the dog, what should I wear, smart or casual? The little terror (sorry Terrier ) tends to roll about on the floor, twirling about and generally trying to trip me up so it will be an adventure to say the least!

Thanks in advance, Emma.

The Breed shows like the Midland Counties one are made up of classes for breeds & they are judged by sex & age first, dogs always being judged first. There is a lot of waiting around, but you can watch the breed you are showing whilst waiting to go into the ring with your dog.

It's quite usual for some breeds to have "handlers"both Professional & amateur & Terriers have a set of specialist handlers who handler(& some also prepare the dogs)

I would doubt that you will be expected to handle the dog in the ring especially if you have never done so before, but you need to check with the dog's owner.

Depending on how well the dog does you can have a wander around the stands around the show. Casual dress & very comfy shoes !! are advisable

Hi JoeDeeUk,

Thanks for the reply, it is very helpful My client told me yesterday I may have to handle the dog as she doesn't think she'll get anyone else to do it. I don't mind giving it a go and she says she'll show me what to do. It'll certainly be an experience!

If I was you Id hunt out a local ringcraft first to give you a bit of confidence.

There should be plenty of folk to handle the dog for her is she asks. What is the lady's name, I may know her.

I'm sure Dawn will be willing to point you in the right direction