Training : Training for Shows : The Basics

As soon as you get your puppy, start training him/her to stand still and look at you while you stand beside or in front of your pup. Frequently reward this behavior, and pretty soon, you'll have a puppy who watches you intently. You can use the clicker to get a "Watch Me" on cue, as well as train your puppy to gaze at a finger you hold up.

When you are in the ring, always pay full attention to what the judge is doing and requesting from you. Once you enter the ring, set up your dog and get him to stand still and watch you. As you are asked to move, take your dog out on a loose leash, and ease the dog into a trot after walking a few steps. Keep an eye out for a pacing gait as opposed to a true trot.

You may be asked to do one of several patterns (triangle, L-shape, T-shape), but just keep in mind that the judge is trying to evaluate three things when you and your dog are moving: your dog's side gait, gait towards the judge to evaluate forward motion, and gait away from the judge to evaluate rear motion.

If you do not move in a straight line towards and away from the judge, he/she cannot evaluate you properly, so pick a spot on the opposite side of the ring and aim for it as you move.