Positive Dog Training Blog

Every dog is completely different and needs to prepare for dog shows in different ways.  My last dog was a bit more high strung and he would stress out at shows.  Exercising him in the morning would help tremendously.  I would take him and retrieve for long distances trying to get that nice serotonin flowing.  With Nitro, he would have no energy left if I tried to exercise him.  This is a night time show so we may go for a walk this morning.

AKC Dog shows are interesting places.  Now this is an obedience show and it doesn’t have much crating room so I wont be bringing my crate but I will be prepared to leave him in the car. Its not warm by any means, but not too cold so he will be fine.  If it were too cold or hot I wouldn’t leave him out there.

We will also bring water, treats, leashes, collars = I always bring backups just in case something happens with one my leashes or collars – you never know!

I will practice will him a bit this morning, heavy rewards on heeling, then when we first get to the show I will do a quick practice with him and then he’ll go back in the car.  Prior to entering the ring, usually about 20 minutes ahead of time, I will get him out and bring him inside to get him to chill out.  When we are next up I do a quick heeling pattern, a stand stay, some fronts and finishes.  I try to keep it high paced, fun and rewarding.  This is what works for us at a dog show. Good luck in your dog obedience competitions!

One last thought, bring water and snacks for yourself. You dont want to go hungry and thirsty!

Share on Facebook

Digg

Stumble Upon

Del.icio.us

Buzz