Entered in my first UScA conformation show - Page 1

I am going to be entering in my first UScA conformation show, any tips or things I should make sure to do?  My dog is a one year old black male gsd.  We have done some work on free stacking, but not much else yet. Thanks!

Make sure he is used to being touched by a stranger so he will be calm and cooperative for whoever handles him. Have someone who doesn't usually handle him (friend or someone from club) practice stacking him, just so he's used to having someone hover over him and move his legs. Also he needs to be prepared for having his microchip/tattoo checked and teeth shown (you can do this if he's not comfortable with strangers, but practicing still helps) and letting a stranger touch his testicles. In most shows, at this age he will be measured for height and will be exposed to gunfire to make sure he isn't gun shy. Practice double handling, preferably with the people who will be handling and calling him at the actual show. I can explain more about how to practice that if you want. That's just some basic info, but good luck!

Thanks for all the info!  I will make sure to start doing that at club practice.  I had two other questions, his tail is not very shepherdly :) it curls up, anything I should do about that?  Just keep adjusting when he is stacked?  Also, can I just use a nice fur saver and nice thin leash or do I need a real show collar?

A show collar is much more comfortable than just a link. A link is acceptable though.
Debby

when teaching to pull, do not let the dog scramble, claw or dig with its front....for a young dog, this can cause damage to its elbows and shoulder, for every dog, its looks bad in the ring......



find 2 identical and unique "noise makers" and sound it every time just prior to eating, going for car rides, play or anyting your dogs thinks is fun and positive. your dog will create an associaltion between the noise and something good. it will rise its head, look in the direction and focus its ears......

day of the show, station 2 people at opposite corners of the ring and when the handler raises his hand, the person most forward of the dog make noise..... the dog will get excited and look accross the ring...... this is ideal for good representation...

after the dog is tired, you will most likely have to run in front and call him......


most importantly, have fun and make sure your dog is also having fun.......especially at the beginning.....the ring must be a happy place......