How to Get your Dog Ready for a Show

If your dog is from a long line of pure breeds, you might want to let them join a dog show or pageant. These shows not only showcase your dog’s talent and looks, it can also let you win a cash prize or even a supply of dog food, grooming products and even vitamins to minimize your dog’s chances of getting degenerative myelopathy. Getting your dog ready for these shows isn’t as easy as it sounds. Here are some tips to help your dog be the best it can be during the big day.

No stress

First of all, don’t get the pressure get to you and your dog. Don’t stress yourself and your dog out with extreme preparation for the event. Remember, you’re just joining the contest for fun. Meet other dog enthusiast and let you and your dog enjoy the day and don’t be too competitive and serious, especially if it’s your fist time joining a contest.

Get some practice

It’s a good idea to take some time to go over your dog’s tricks a few weeks before the event. Your dog might find some tricks easy to do, while others might be a bit of a challenge, especially if they’re not use to doing it. Take some time to over your dog’s tricks and be patient with them. Just let them get used to all the commands while you still have time.

Go to the parlor

Help your dog look their best by going to the groomers a day before the event. Have their hair cut and shaped, give them a bath, and condition their fur. Don’t miss out on their nails, eyes, ears and paws when getting them cleaned. If your dog has the early stages of degenerative myelopathy, a good massage can help sooth their nerves and even let them perform better.

Vitamins

Giving your dog some extra vitamins can help keep them active and boost up their energy levels. You can find these in most vet supply shops or pet stores. Some dog owners even give their dogs vitamins that are for human consumption, but this isn’t advisable. Before giving any food supplement of vitamins to your pet, make sure you talk to your vet.

Rest

Make sure your dog gets a lot of rest before the day of the event. They might become too tired to perform on the day and this might even affect their behavior. Let them have a good night’s sleep before the event.