STEPS TO YOUR FIRST SHOW
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Registration: Your dog must be registered with The Royal Kennel Club on the Breed Register (not required for companion shows)
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Minimum Age: Dogs must be at least six months old to compete in Kennel Club-registered shows. However, some shows (in particular breed club shows) may offer a 'Baby puppy' class for puppies of 4 months of age.
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Training: Join a ringcraft class- learn to socialise your dog, present them confidently in a ring, and allow for handling similar to what a judge will perform.
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Entry: Obtain a schedule (often from the show secretary or online), complete the entry form, and pay by the closing date. The schedule provides essential details like show location, class definitions, judges, and entry procedures.
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On the Day: Arrive early, locate your ring and bench, and ensure your dog is properly groomed and calm. Bring your show bag: grooming kit, leads, water, bait (treats), and other essentials.
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In the Ring: A ring steward guides you. Typically, you'll stack or free stand your dog, allow the judge to examine them, and then move them around the ring in patterns such as the "triangle" or “up-and-down” for evaluation. You'll learn these patterns at ringcraft.
Why should you care?
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Dog showing offers a meaningful way to celebrate a dog’s breed-specific traits.
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It fosters community and camaraderie among like-minded enthusiasts.
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It encourages high standards of health, welfare, and ethical breeding.
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And for many, it becomes an engaging and even slightly addictive hobby
We have a lovely Facebook group for showing Rough and Smooth Collies within the UK, here. In this group no question is silly and we have specialists in grooming, handling and other aspects at the ready to answer any question. Feel free to join and ask away.
Where to start?
Interested in showing but you're not sure where to start?
Step one would be to reach out to your breeder as they may already show themselves and be able to guide you through the process. If not, contact your local breed club. Some clubs even have a buddy scheme which pairs you with an experienced breeder/exhibitor so you have a help throughout the process and at shows.
They will be able to assist you in finding a local ringcraft training club (show training facility). Ringcraft clubs allow you to learn the ropes of the show scene in a safe and controlled environment. They will also assist you with entering shows and explain the classes your dog is eligible to enter.
Dog Showing Guide
Dog showing- often referred to as exhibiting- is the United Kingdom's most popular form of canine competition, formally organised by The Royal Kennel Club.
It involves pedigree dogs registered with The Royal Kennel Club, which are presented in front of judges who evaluate them against precise Breed Standards.
These breed standards detail everything from a dog’s height, coat colour, temperament, and overall suitability for its historic role or function. The dog that best aligns with its breed’s standard is awarded top honours.
Everyone has their own preferred 'dog show kit' itinerary to bring with them to a dog show. Dog bait may differ between dogs and what they prefer to work for, exhibitors may like specific brushes for their pups- everyone finds their perfect kit, but we've got a generalised kit list to refer to!
What to bring to a dog show?
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Show lead & collar
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Bait & bait bag
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Water & bowl
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Crate & id tag for it
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Ring pin clip/armband
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Brush & grooming supplies
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Towel
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Chair
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Snacks/lunch for yourself and your dog(s)
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Comfy shoes
Dog Show Kit:
Ringcraft Clubs
Here is a handy-dandy list of ringcraft clubs and their locations. We hope this will aid those looking to find a local club. If you know of or attend a club and it is not on the list, please contact us and we will get it added. Thank you!