Showing refers to the handler’s ability to present the animal to its best advantage before a judge.  The dog does not have to be owned by the handler, but the handler must have regular access to it for training purposes.  Showing in conformation is a completely differ-ent competition from Obedience. Do not con-fuse the two. Do not confuse the dog. Think of your dog as a first grade student. He or she will be taught both obedience and fitting and show-ing, but they are as different as math and spell-ing.  Use different commands for each class.

Learn about the Breed

It is a good idea before you learn to show your dog, to find out how your dog would be shown in conformation. Every breed is shown a little differently. The best way to find out how to show your breed is to:

• Study pictures of your breed of dog.

• Talk to a reputable breeder.

Look at how your breed’s feet are placed and how the head and tail are held. If you are watch-ing a class of dogs, notice how fast the dogs are moved and how the handler holds the lead. You will need to gait your dog at a speed that makes your dog move its best.

Also, check what types of show leads are used in the breed ring.

Choose a Show Lead

It is possible to use your obedience leash and collar for Fitting and Showing, but this is not a good idea. However, you can use the same train-ing collar with a show leash that is less bulky and easier to gather into your hand.

There are several different kinds of show leads. The main difference between them is the amount of control they give you. Any of the leads are okay for any breed although some are more commonly used than others. The most common types of show leads are described as follows: 

Spring Clasp is a leash and collar combina-tion often used on smaller dogs. It does not give much control. Another problem with this lead is the clasp. The spring in the clasp breaks very quickly allowing the leash to slip off. This can cause great problems in the ring.

Martingale is another leash and collar com-bination.  This lead gives a fair amount of con-trol and is usually the best choice for a small to medium dog. It also works well on some big dogs. Martingale leads come in various lengths and colors. On some, the collar section is made of chain. This gives even more control. When you buy a Martingale lead, make sure that when the leash is pulled tight, the two metal rings do not touch.

Collar and Lead have two separate parts, the collar and the leash. The collar is a slip collar similar to those used in obedience. It is usually made of very fine chain or nylon. Leads come in different lengths and are made of nylon or very thin leather. This combination is the best choice for a medium or large dog or one that doesn’t like to trot.

Humane Choke is a collar that can be used on large or hard-to-handle dogs. It is used in combination with the leashes mentioned above.  It pulls and releases equally well from both sides.  When you choose your leash and collar, try to match the color of the dog. If you have a hot pink or electric blue leash and collar, the judge will be distracted from watching your dog.