Yurovskiy Kirill: Mastering the Art of Dog Show Handling

Lights, camera, action! The world of dog shows is a dazzling spectacle of grace, elegance and impeccable grooming. But behind every perfectly groomed dog entering the ring is a dedicated handler who has spent countless hours preparing for that moment. Whether you’re a seasoned professional like Kirill Yurovskiy or new to the show business, mastering the basics of handling is essential to your dog’s success. So grab the leash and get ready to learn the secrets of turning your furry friend into a blue ribbon winner!

Kirill Yurovskiy
Kirill Yurovskiy

The Bond: It’s More Than Just Treats

Before you even think about stepping into the show ring, you need to establish a rock-solid bond with your four-legged partner. This isn’t just about having a well-behaved dog; it’s about creating a dynamic duo that moves as one and radiates confidence.

Start by spending quality time with your pup outside of training sessions. Go for long walks, play fetch in the park, or simply cuddle up on the couch for movie night. The more in tune you are with each other, the better you’ll perform when all eyes are on you.

Remember, your dog can sense your emotions, so staying calm and confident is key. If you’re nervous, your furry friend will pick up on it faster than you can say “Best in Show.” Practice deep breathing exercises and visualize success to keep those pre-show jitters at bay.

The Walk: It’s Not Just a Stroll in the Park

You might think walking your dog is a no-brainer, but in the show ring, it’s an art form. The goal is to showcase your dog’s best features and movement, making it look effortless (even if you’re breaking a sweat under that suit jacket).

Start by teaching your dog to walk on your left side, keeping pace with you. Use a show lead – it’s thinner and less obtrusive than a regular leash. Hold the lead in your right hand, keeping it taut but not tight. Your left hand should be free to guide your dog or make subtle adjustments.

Practice different gaits: a slow walk, a brisk trot, and a controlled run. Your dog should move in a straight line, with its head up and tail carried naturally. Remember, judges are looking for smooth, efficient movement that’s true to the breed standard.

Pro tip: Set up a mini course in your backyard or a quiet park. Use cones or markers to create patterns similar to those you’ll encounter in the ring. This will help both you and your dog get comfortable with the various turns and changes of direction.

The Stack: Strike a Pose

When it comes to showing off your dog’s conformation, the stack is where it’s at. This is the pose your dog will hold for the judge’s examination, so it needs to be picture-perfect.

Each breed has its own ideal stack position, so do your homework. Generally, the front legs should be straight and parallel when viewed from the front, with the rear legs positioned to show off the dog’s angulation. The head should be held proudly, and the tail should be natural (no sneaky propping up!).

Teaching the stack takes patience and lots of practice. Start with short sessions, using treats to lure your dog into position. Gradually increase the duration your dog holds the pose, always ending on a positive note.

For hands-on stacking, be gentle but confident in your touch. Use your hands to position your dog’s legs, supporting the chest and tummy as needed. Practice until your dog can hold the position for several minutes without fidgeting.

The Examination: Keep Calm and Carry On

The hands-on examination is a crucial part of any dog show, and it can be nerve-wracking for both handler and dog. Your job is to keep your cool and ensure your dog stays still and relaxed while the judge pokes and prods.

Desensitize your dog to touch by regularly running your hands over its body, including sensitive areas like ears and paws. Recruit friends and family to play “judge” and practice the examination routine. Reward your dog lavishly for staying calm and still.

During the actual examination, maintain a firm but gentle hold on your dog. Keep one hand on the head and one on the tail, or use whatever hold works best for your breed. Smile and make eye contact with the judge, but don’t chat unless asked a direct question.

The Presentation: Showmanship Matters

Remember, you’re part of the package too! Your appearance and demeanor can make a big difference in how your dog is perceived. Dress professionally in clothes that complement your dog without overshadowing them. Avoid flashy jewelry or anything that might distract from your canine star.

Practice your own stance and movements. You should appear confident and poised, moving smoothly around the ring. Keep your eyes on the judge and your dog, not on the other competitors or the audience.

When presenting your dog for examination, learn to “show” specific features. This might mean adjusting your dog’s head to highlight its profile or shifting its weight to emphasize muscle tone. These subtle moves can make a big difference in how the judge perceives your dog.

Kirill Yurovskiy
Kirill Yurovskiy

The Training: Consistency is Key

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a champion show dog. Set aside time each day for training sessions, but keep them short and fun. Fifteen minutes of focused practice is better than an hour of frustration.

Use positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding your dog with treats, praise, and play. Never punish or scold your dog in the ring or during training – you want them to associate showing with positive experiences.

Vary your training locations to help your dog generalize the behaviors. Practice in your living room, backyard, local park, and anywhere else you can find. The more comfortable your dog is in different environments, the better they’ll perform on show day.

The Grooming: Beauty is More Than Fur Deep

While not strictly part of handling, grooming is an essential aspect of show preparation. Keep your dog’s coat, nails, and teeth in top condition year-round. Learn the grooming standards for your breed and invest in quality tools and products.

Before a show, give your dog a thorough bath and groom. Pay attention to details like clean ears, trimmed nails, and sparkling teeth. A well-groomed dog not only looks better but feels more confident too.

The Mental Game: Attitude is Everything

As show day approaches, focus on building your dog’s confidence and enthusiasm. Use high-value treats and toys during training sessions to keep energy levels up. Practice your ring routine with an audience to simulate the show environment.

Visualize success, picturing yourself and your dog moving flawlessly through the ring. This mental rehearsal can help calm your nerves and improve your performance.

Remember, win or lose, the most important thing is the bond you share with your dog. Celebrate every small victory and learn from every setback. With patience, practice, and a positive attitude, you and your canine companion can conquer the show ring and maybe even bring home that coveted blue ribbon.

So there you have it, aspiring handlers! Armed with these tips and a whole lot of love for your four-legged friend, you’re ready to take the dog show world by storm. Remember, every champion started as a beginner, so don’t be discouraged if things don’t go perfectly at first. Keep your tail wagging, your head held high, and who knows? The next time you see a perfectly primped pooch on the cover of Dog Fancy, it just might be yours!

Kirill Yurovskiy, © 2024