6 Things You Should Never Do at a Dog Show
Dog shows are a world of structured routines, high expectations, and intricate judging standards where exhibitors and their dogs put in countless hours of preparation. If you're a newcomer or spectator at one of these events, it might seem like a delightful opportunity to explore the canine world up close, but it’s essential to understand that dog shows are more than just a fun exhibition of adorable pets. They are serious competitions governed by rules of conduct, etiquette, and protocols—both written and unwritten. Missteps can disrupt the event, stress participants, or even affect the performance of the dogs. Whether you’re attending your first show or simply interested in dog show culture, this guide will walk you through what not to do at a dog show, ensuring that you don't unintentionally commit faux pas that might inconvenience others. Avoiding the following mistakes will help you blend in smoothly, respect the hard work of exhibitors, and make the event enjoyable for all involved.
What Not To Do At A Dog Show
1. Don't Bring Unentered Dogs or Uninvited Pets
One of the most common and unfortunately disruptive mistakes people make is bringing their own pets to a dog show, even if those pets are well-behaved. Unless you have entered your dog into the show or have express permission from the organizers, bringing an unentered pet is a major no-no. These events are not public pet expos where any animal is welcome. Only the dogs registered for competition, and occasionally service animals, are allowed within the event space. Bringing an uninvited dog not only breaks the rules but also risks creating chaos among the competing dogs. Many of the show dogs are highly trained for specific behaviors and routines, and even a seemingly minor interaction with an outside dog can throw them off their game. Imagine a nervous competitor being distracted by your curious puppy seconds before entering the ring—it could cause them to lose focus and perform poorly, potentially ruining months of work. Even if your dog is friendly, the presence of other animals can increase the stress levels of the participating dogs, some of whom are sensitive to disruptions or wary of unfamiliar animals. Additionally, many exhibitors and handlers view other dogs as potential carriers of illnesses or parasites, so it’s best to respect their concerns and leave your pet at home.
2. Avoid Touching or Distracting the Dogs Without Permission
As tempting as it may be to reach out and pet a perfectly groomed Afghan Hound or an elegant Poodle in a dazzling cut, one of the biggest mistakes spectators make at dog shows is touching or interacting with the competing dogs without permission. Many of these dogs are in the final stages of preparation before entering the ring, and even the smallest distraction can disrupt their concentration or ruin their pristine grooming. Handlers often spend hours ensuring the dog’s coat, posture, and demeanor are perfect for the competition. A single pat on the head or an excited squeal from a spectator can undo all of that preparation. In addition to potentially damaging the dog's presentation, touching the animals without permission is a violation of basic etiquette. Some dogs are not used to strangers touching them, and an unexpected interaction could make them anxious. You may also encounter dogs that are sensitive to smells or residues on your hands, and your well-meaning pat might transfer odors that affect the dog’s grooming oils or sprays. Beyond that, distracting a dog while it is about to enter the show ring or during the judging process can negatively impact its performance. Even a slight gesture—like waving, snapping fingers, or making kissy noises—can throw off a dog’s concentration at a crucial moment. Always ask the handler or exhibitor for permission before interacting with any dog, and if you’re told no, respect their wishes without taking offense.
3. Don't Crowd the Grooming Areas
The grooming area at a dog show is an intensely busy, high-pressure environment where exhibitors and handlers work meticulously to prepare their dogs. This space is comparable to a backstage dressing room, and it is where the magic happens—coats are brushed to perfection, nails are polished, and last-minute adjustments are made. It might be fascinating to observe the behind-the-scenes work, but spectators must resist the temptation to linger or crowd this area. Hovering over handlers or asking questions while they are in the middle of grooming can be intrusive and distracting. Handlers are often under strict time constraints to get their dogs ready before judging begins, and interruptions—no matter how friendly—can cause delays or increase their stress. Keep in mind that these grooming setups are not just chaotic messes of combs and sprays; they are carefully organized spaces where every tool has a purpose. Accidentally knocking over equipment, blocking the aisles with strollers or large bags, or brushing against a freshly groomed coat can lead to frustration or even a disqualification if the dog's presentation is compromised. If you want to observe grooming techniques, do so from a respectful distance and avoid getting in the way. Many exhibitors will be happy to chat after they’ve finished with their preparations, but during the grooming process, it’s best to step aside and let them focus.
4. Do Not Distract the Judges or Interrupt the Judging Process
Judging at a dog show requires a meticulous eye and complete focus. Judges must evaluate each dog according to specific breed standards, considering everything from coat texture to gait. Interrupting the judges—whether by asking questions, making loud comments, or accidentally walking into the ring—is one of the worst things you can do at a dog show. The competition ring is a sacred space where only authorized personnel are allowed, and any interference can not only distract the judge but also disqualify the exhibitor or unfairly influence the results. Many newcomers to dog shows don’t realize that spectators are expected to maintain silence during the judging process, especially when it involves deliberation or close inspection of the dogs. Loud conversations, ringing phones, or disruptive behavior from the audience can disturb the judge’s concentration or startle the dogs being evaluated. Even well-meaning comments—like cheering for your favorite dog or trying to explain the breed to other spectators—can be considered inappropriate if they occur at the wrong time. If you have questions about the judging criteria or want to understand how decisions are made, it’s best to wait until the competition ends. Most judges are willing to discuss their thought process after the event, but only if they are approached politely and at the right moment.
5. Don’t Ignore the Rules and Dress Code
While many dog shows are open to the public, that doesn’t mean they are casual affairs where you can show up in flip-flops and wander freely through the event. Some shows have specific guidelines for spectators regarding dress code, behavior, and access to certain areas. Ignoring these rules can make you stand out for all the wrong reasons and might even get you removed from the venue. In particular, some shows enforce strict policies about where spectators can sit or stand, as certain areas are reserved for exhibitors, handlers, or judges. Disregarding these restrictions by sitting in the wrong seats or walking into restricted zones can create confusion and delay the proceedings. Additionally, while formal attire isn’t always required for spectators, wearing appropriate clothing shows respect for the participants and the event. Loud or flashy outfits can be distracting to the dogs, and inappropriate footwear can put you at risk of slipping on surfaces that are often polished for the show ring. If the show is held outdoors, wearing the wrong clothes—like bright neon colors or billowing fabrics—can also spook some dogs, especially those sensitive to visual stimuli. To avoid these missteps, familiarize yourself with the event’s guidelines before attending, and when in doubt, opt for comfortable yet neutral clothing that won’t draw unnecessary attention.
6. Never Be Disrespectful to Exhibitors, Judges, or Other Spectators
Lastly, one of the most important rules of dog show etiquette is maintaining a respectful and positive attitude throughout the event. Dog shows are high-stress environments for both participants and organizers, and tensions can run high—especially when results are contested or when competitors feel they didn’t perform as expected. Under no circumstances should spectators express frustration, criticize the judges, or belittle the efforts of the exhibitors. It is natural to root for a particular dog or handler, but showing favoritism in a loud or disruptive way is considered poor form. Similarly, questioning a judge’s decision in front of others can be seen as highly inappropriate, and in some cases, it might even result in ejection from the venue. Remember that participants have invested significant time, money, and effort to compete, and even if their dog doesn’t win, they deserve recognition and support for their hard work. Gossiping about exhibitors, making negative comments about a dog’s appearance, or complaining about the judging can spoil the atmosphere for everyone involved. If you feel strongly about a particular outcome, it’s best to keep your opinions to yourself or discuss them privately after the event. The goal is to foster an environment of sportsmanship, appreciation, and celebration of canine excellence, even if things don’t go the way you expected.
By following these guidelines and avoiding the common mistakes outlined above, you’ll not only enjoy the dog show experience more but also contribute to a positive and respectful environment for everyone involved. Dog shows are more than just competitions—they are celebrations of dedication, skill, and the unique bond between humans and their canine companions. Whether you’re an exhibitor, spectator, or first-time visitor, understanding what not to do ensures that the event remains enjoyable and fair for all participants.