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P U P P Y P A C K
Showing
At 6 months, we encourage all purchaser(s) to show where possible their dog;
There is no such thing as a "perfect dog." Every dog has
some faults. The best way to appraise your dog's degree
of perfection is to compare him with the Standard for the
breed, or before a judge in a show ring.
One thing you can start doing with the dogs you plan to
show, is to start walking them on your left side
consistently. Always on the left. Bulldogs are shown at a
slight "trot" to show ease of movement. They shouldn't
pull out ahead of you, just shuffle along at your left side.
A walk is too sluggish. Walk them about 25 ft, then turn
and go back to where you were. Or walk in
approximately a 25 ft. "triangle", making turns to the left
and returning to your starting point. These are things a
judge will instruct you to do. (judges will give you the approximate distance they want you to go, so
don't worry too much about an exact 25' range).
Shows are held all over the nation, in a variety of settings. You may be showing your dog outside
on grass, on the matted floor of a convention centre, or on packed dirt in a rodeo arena. You can
possibly find ways beforehand to help prepare your dog for such conditions.
To "stack" your Bulldog. . he should stand square. You start by facing his right side. Because the
chest is wider than the hips, the front legs will be positioned wider than the rear. Legs should be
under the dog, not extended like a Doberman. Get the dog use to remaining in this position as you
move to his front. You are squatting or kneeling next to the dog while the dog is stacked. When the
judge moves around to view the dog's right side, you move out of the way and to the dog's front.
Once the judge is done with the right side, you move back to that side. The dog's head is level,
your right hand supporting his jaw (be sure not to force the head upward to an unnatural position).
And you will be trying to keep your hand and fingers from interfering with the judge's view of the
dog's head.
Judges
Judges have the discretion to use a "ramp" to assist them. This is a platform-like structure that
the dogs are examined on so that judges don't have to strain their backs stooping over each dog.
The use of a ramp is to be indicated in the premium list, so exhibitors know prior to entering that
show.
Show Chokers
There are a variety of show chokers and leads in leather, nylon, metal, and a combination of these
materials. Chokers and leads are usually selected in a colour that enhances the dog's appearance.
Fine-link chokers are popular as they have the nice polish of elegant jewellery, and can be used on
a dog of any colour. You want the judge's eye to remain on your dog, not the choker and lead, so
select something with this objective in mind. Avoid heavy materials and bright colours. Select a
lead length that will not be cumbersome to gather up as you and your dog move to the judge's
instructions. Bulldogs are never shown in harness.
Exercise
These are basic, but very important exercises, to prepare for the show-ring. Your dog will usually
be shown with other dogs. He will probably have other Bulldogs in front of him and behind him. Be
sure he is use to strange dogs so near, so that he doesn't "wig out". Aggressive behaviour will
cause you and your dog to be dismissed from the ring. He must permit the judge to examine him,
running his hands over his body, and checking the teeth ("bite"). Your dog needs to be cooperative
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