What Makes a Good Show Dog?

Maybe you’re biased, but if you own a dog, you’ll probably think he or she has definitely got what it takes to enter a dog show, take the judges by storm and win those coveted rosettes. But what does it really take for you to become the proud owner of a prizewinning pooch…?
No one is going to argue about the fact that it’s going to take a lot of hard graft from you and your best friend for them to become competition fodder. If you want somewhere pretty friendly and easy to start off with, then get online and find your nearest Ringcraft club. There, you will find a friendly, encouraging environment in which to get your doggie into the swing of performing and obeying commands, and you will both have a lot of fun doing it. Obedience training and handling classes would also be a great place to start – you can do a bit of research yourself on the handling of your dog’s breed.

Dog hygiene (and therefore appearance) will be one of the primary categories your dog will be judged in, and judges will be checking for the condition and cleanliness of and the fur around the eyes, nose, mouth, ears and nails. Clipping, plucking and cleaning routines and techniques that are particular to your breed can all be found online.

A well-groomed dog is a must, so if you haven’t already, do get into the habit. Not only does it ensure that your dog looks spiffing, but will forge a closer bond between the two of you, which is a big deal if you are intending to perform together in future dog shows.

Apart from the prevention of matting, and removal of dirt, loose hair and skin particles, brushing will improve circulation and increase the production of natural oils onto the skin and hair, for a healthier, shinier, more supple coat.

Those with short hair should be rubbed up and down with a rough towel or mitten, and cleaned twice a week. Those with longer hair should be brushed daily with a comb and then with a wire brush up to twice a month, very delicately, for any deeper matting. Some dogs, such as terriers and schnauzers, will require the plucking of their wiry coat – again, consult breed-specific books and online tutorials.

Find out about your nearest shows, trainers and competitions, and research all there is to know about your dog’s breed. Be realistic about the time and money you can afford invest in getting your pooch up to par – don’t disappoint yourself by setting unachievable goals! You’ll want to ensure that your pet has the best care available to them – a good pet insurance plan will cover you both for any instance of ill health, giving your financial peace of mind when it comes to those often pricey treatments your vet is required to administer.

Four Legged Fashion – Essential Style Pointers for Pooches

As Fashion Week circumnavigates the globe, there’s no excuse for anyone to miss a stylish trick – even our pets. These days there’s all manner of accessory for the designer dog – from professional hair styling, through to Channel coats and diamond encrusted collars. Here are some essential style pointers for pooches.

Hair
A glossy coat is reliant on a number of factors – grooming with a good dog brush every week, shampooing as frequently as needed, and a good diet. Dogs that don’t moult are a dream in the house, but they do need grooming to keep the coat shiny and knot free. Dog salon and spas, mobile or stationary, have sprung up all over the country, catering for cuts, ‘poos and dressing.

Coat and accessories
Dog clothing is not limited to waterproof coats for walkies – specialist firms now retail entire outfits created specifically for our four legged friends, whether you’re after real wool sweaters, leather basques, or Mulberry raincoats. The dog collar is also an area for consideration – the emphasis here is not just practicality but also pazazz – think crystals and glitz.

Dog Beds and toys
Dog beds should be more creative than the usual paw print patterned beanbags – these days the market has expanded to incorporate a diverse range of chic designs that cater for canine slumbering. Raised platforms, inscribed name plates, suede/silk/lambs wool covered… Toys should also subscribe to a fashion palate as well; out with the soggy teddies and in with the Gucchewi Purse and Bark Jacobs shoe.

Lounging facilities
Some owners seem to think that one bed per household is sufficient, but we’re not after ‘sufficient’ – we’re talking about ‘mans best friend’ and as such a bit of respect needs to be served. As well as a bed, a fashionable pup deserves a few lounging platforms where they can stretch out, above floor level – a number of companies have started to manufacture canine chaise lounges, which have recreated classic, vintage designs for dogs.

Food, treats and tit bits
A well fed pooch is generally a happy one – but there’s a balance and the diet should be healthy and relate to size and optimum weight. It’s not just us human beings that seem to be suffering from the fat gene in recent years, 25% of all dogs in the UK alone are considered to be over weight. Treats are not out of the question, but they shouldn’t consist of crisps and chocolate – despite what those sad puppy dog eyes might have you believe. Pet shops sell all manner of extra tit bits to help keep teeth clean and body trim – essential for that new Channel doggy coat.