Conformation Show Helpful Hints

Never shown a dog before? Here is how — the following applies to official (sanctioned) ADBA conformation shows. It’s easy! People are very friendly and happy to help newcomers.

Conformation showing is great socialization for him and a bonding activity for the both of you. I have seen many dogs who have never been shown before take home ribbons and even trophies. There are no “professional handlers” at ADBA shows.

Obedience training will help you to handle your dog more easily and show off his best qualities. Work on simple walking on a leash, and heeling with distractions. Practice walking in a circle and changing directions. Give lots of treats and praise when the dog is doing what you want. With bulldogs, harsh corrections and punishment do not work — praise and rewards do! Your dog should be happy, outgoing and confident in attitude.

Bring to the show:
1. Your ADBA papers (pedigree) or show card with the birthdate, reg. number and dog’s name.
2. A secure buckle-type collar, 4 foot or shorter leash, and a crate.
3. Your dog should wear his rabies tag and ID tag.
4. Food and water from home and dishes.
5. Cash – sanctioned entries are $18 each. Fun classes are a nominal fee to help cover expenses.
6. Camping chairs – also dress in layers and prepare for extreme weather. If it is going to be cold, bring blankets for the dogs also. Bring snacks and drinks because it can be a long day (most shows have food vendors though).

Please don’t bring:
1. Puppies under 4 months old, or any dog who is not fully vaccinated. This is for safety reasons.
2. Any dogs not entered in the days’ events.
3. Anything that you wouldn’t want your grandma to see you wear. We usually have the media and members of the general public at our shows.
4. Human-aggressive dogs. They are disqualified.

Here is a picture of E. Lundberg’s JILL, who is a Champion. She is a young female, and a great example of the ADBA standard. Jill’s young owner is an excellent Junior Handler as well. (click on the small image for a larger view):

These are just the official classes (for points). Clubs usually have “fun” classes such as Junior Handler (for kids), Judges’ Choice (whatever the judge would personally like to have at his house, regardless of the ADBA standard), Best Red Nose, etc. at various times. We always have Junior Handler at our shows, with separate classes for younger and older kids. Kids may show with a parent helper.

OFFICIAL ADBA CONFORMATION POINT CLASSES:
Males 4-6 Mo.
Females 4-6 Mo.
Males 6-9 Mo.
Females 6-9 Mo.
Males 9-12 Mo.
Females 9-12 Mo.
Best Puppy – all 1st place winners of puppy classes compete
Champions Class (will be held only if ADBA minimum # of entrants is met – this is for dogs who are Champions already).
Males 12-18 Mo.
Females 12-18 Mo.
Males 18-24 Mo.
Females 18-24 Mo.
Males 2-3 Years
Females 2-3 Years
Males 3-5 Years
Females 3-5 Years
Males 5 Years and older
Females 5 Years and older
Best of Show – All first place winners of adult classes and the Best Puppy compete. From this group the judge chooses:
Best of Opposite Sex – best dog to the opposite sex of best of show

Here is the ADBA Conformation Standard. The dog who best fits the standard is Best of Show:
http://www.adbadog.com/p_pdetails.asp?fpid=32&pg=32

And finally: Safety first. Using the proper equipment listed above is critically important. When in the ring and holding areas, shorten your lead as much as possible and maintain at least 3-4 feet of space between your dog and dogs next to you. Do not “face” dogs; don’t let your dog lock eyes with another dog. This is where obedience training pays off — a “watch me” command will make your dog much easier to handle.

It’s fun and easy to show in the ADBA! That is one of the things that makes us unique. There is no such thing as a dumb question, so please do not hesitate to ask an experienced exhibitor for help. Or leave your comment below and we will do our best to answer.