10/15/2024
Just sharing something I do outside grooming:
My new puppy, Myth, took Best Baby Puppy in show at his first show this weekend! Im very proud. (Baby puppies are dogs 4 months to under 6 months.)
My breed is the Norwegian Buhund. This is an ancient Viking herding breed in danger of extinction. They have very few genetic health issues and are fantastic family dogs but do shed a lot and have moderate to high energy needs.
I also like that they are a lazy persons show dog. Bath them and tidy the feet and you're done.
A few common misconceptions about conformation shows are that:
1. Dogs hate dog shows.
Truth: Most dogs love it and if they don't love it they usually won't do well. Expression and temperament is a huge part of the judging so having them happy matters.
If you're ever at shows you will see most people have high value treats, called bait, in their pockets. So basically the dog just runs around a circle and eats treats.
2. Only professional handlers win.
Truth: While it's true professional handlers tend to do better, that's because they are simply better at showing off the best parts of the dog. It's like you can cut your own hair but it won't look as good as a professional could make it.
So you absolutely can show a dog yourself and earn a title it just may take more than a weekend.
3. Dog shows are expensive
Truth: I mean, they can be if you're really serious about it but entering a class is $20-$35 usually. If you don't get a hotel and handle your dog yourself its actually pretty affordable.
Anyways, there is a lot more to dog shows than it seems from the outside. It's rather fun and I personally have had a lot of positive experiences and found people forgiving and helpful to less experienced people, like me.
I encourage people to go check one out sometime. Canuckdogs.com lists lots of Canada wide dog events. Just leave your pet dog at home and if at a conformation show ask before petting a dog.
