I went to the NZ National Dog Show in 2015 and this is what the announcer said at the beginning of the puppy class "the puppy class, where anything can happen and it usually does". Lots of hearty laughs from the crowd
And it will Ah, yeah, no point worrying about it. What's the worst that can happen? She's a complete lunatic and has a poo on the judge's foot. There are worse things in life
It is am It is amazing to see all the dogs not reacting to each or people. Crufts has absolutely hundreds of dogs there every day for the show ring and that's without all the dogs there promoting Assistance Dogs, Discover Dogs, participating in Agility, Flyball, Heel work to music, demonstrating clicker and positive training methods etc. To add to the fun these dogs are walked through the throngs of visitors and dogs to get from point A to point B.
God, you know what? This is so difficult! I don't "do" clothes, really. Not to say I go out naked! I just don't have that wonderful natural instinct that so many people, my sister included, have about how to dress appropriately for any occasion. Of course, I've been Googling "dog show outfits" and I just don't know. It has to be something that's comfortable and easy to run in. With pockets. That won't stain from bait. The bottom part needs to contrast with the colour of the dog. Everyone has an opinion. Trousers, not trousers! Trainers, not trainers! My breeder always wears casual clothes and Dubarrys and does well - but she knows what she's doing with her handling. I have to take any advantage I can to make up for my kak-handedness! I really don't want to look like the mother of the bride, like so many people seem to. I've been thinking along the lines of stone coloured trousers, a navy jacket and white blouse with flat shoes of some description. Any help more than gratefully received
I know your first show is going to be in the UK and from the looks of Crufts there's a little bit more of that "wear a skirt suit with flats" thing that is also popular in the US, but if you decided to show in Spain, both of the big shows I've been to here were VERY casual. Like "ripped jeans and t-shirts" casual. The north may be more formal, but I think down here you could show in your pyjamas even and no one would bat an eye.
Gosh, I didn't realise it was so complicated! Don't forget your clothes brush (one of those sticky things?) so your lower half isn't covered in Luna hair anyway! Clothes made from patterned fabric are best at disguising the inevitable light covering of dog hair, but that wouldn't do for the show ring!
Argh, I hadn't even considered Luna hair! I've not experienced the delight of a shedding show-line dog yet