The A-to-Z's
of Dog Show Etiquette

© Eileen Jaworowski

Used with permission
 

Accept and abide by the decisions of the judges.
 
Be self aware, don’t perpetuate poor sportsmanship.

Cooperate with the judges, competitors and club members
in trying to promote good sportsmanship.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Encourage your own teammates to be competitive, but fair at canine events.

Follow the rules of the competition at all times.

Give credit and appreciation to the competition when they’ve earned it.

Have a smile on your face, even when you are disappointed in a judge’s call.
 

Intervene to let others know that unsportsmanlike conduct will not be
    tolerated at events sponsored by your club.

Judgment calls on the part of officials are not subject to debate.

Keep your cool at all times.  Never let anger or disappointment cloud your good judgment.

Lose without excuses; win without demeaning the competition.

Message boards are for sharing, learning and helping a community stay connected - NOT for slanderous attacks on others.

Never blame other competitors or the judges for your or your dog’s shortcomings.

Offer congratulations and compliments to the handler whose dog placed above yours.

Provide opportunities for informing event participants of their responsibility
    to uphold the standards of sportsmanship.

Questioning a judge’s call or making negative comments about an official is unacceptable behavior.

Recognize and show appreciation for an outstanding competitor.

Shake hands with other handlers prior to the competition and wish them good luck.

Teach sportsmanship and request that your well-wishers be good sports.

Use your club’s membership to help develop a sportsmanship education program.

Victors of the competition should be sure to congratulate other competitors for a job well done.

Work cooperatively with judges and hosts for a fair competition.

eXercise self-control and be a good example for competitors and spectators.

Zero in on sportsmanship and make it YOUR top PRIORITY!!