My young man is entered in a show next week, is it acceptable to take the other two dogs with us - they are not entered.
What does 'not for competition' mean?
Any other tips for us? We have been attending ringcraft classes.

Depends on the show.   Things have changed a bit since I was last out, but normally for a benched Champ.show you'd enter those not being shown as 'Not for Competition' which means exactly that.   Of course you can take your extra dogs with you, but you may not be allowed to go into the actual show with them - they'd have to be left outside and be aware, if you leave them in a car, if it gets hot, you may be in for trouble.  Some shows have a tent where you can leave unentered dogs too.   Others more 'current' on the show scene, will be able to give you more up to date info.

Good luck at the show - but never forget, win or lose, you always bring the best dog home with YOU.

Hi Rozzi, is the show an Open Show or a Championship Show? People do take unentered dogs to Open Shows, but strictly speaking it is against the rules and the society would get into trouble if a Kennel Club inspector was there. Most Championship Shows accept Spectator dogs at a cost on the day and you would need to fill in a form on the gate.

Otherwise, just make sure you are there in plenty of time for judging, take water and a bowl for the dog, a show lead, ring clip for your number, dog brush and picnic chairs especially if it's outside. Most importantly have fun, enjoy yourself and whatever happens, you always take the best dog home. Good luck.

Thanks for the tips ladies, it is an open show but on balance we will probably leave the girls at home and arrange a sitter. Then I can focus on the task in hand and not be worried about them. I love the saying about always taking the best dog home, to me it's the best bit of advice there is! The seasoned campaigners make it look so easy, I am rapidly realising that there's more to it than meets the eye!

If its an all breed open show id be inclined to leave them at home too otherwise its leaving them in a vehicle or taking in crates for them inside the ground, most now accept spectator dogs for £1 a dog and you fill in the form. If a breed one then normally most locations are set up you can leave dogs in vehicles with the boot or doors open as they are generally very safe.
If I'm showing, the ones who aren't entered stay at home

> People do take unentered dogs to Open Shows, but strictly speaking it is against the rules and the society would get into trouble if a Kennel Club inspector was there.

A goodly amount of Open shows also accept spectators dogs too ;)

I enter my Activity reg. dog Not for Competition at Open shows, so he can come in with us and share the crate. This goes on the entry form and usually costs around £1.50. At Champ. shows I find NFC far too dear, it is much cheaper to get a Spectator dog pass, but can be a bit of a fag if you are tight for time.

I'm pleased to hear that Lexy, I hadn't heard anyone mention it. Seems very sensible, thankyou.

Just enjoy yourself and make sure you and your dog have fun! Tell the steward when you go in that it's your first time and if they are any good at all they will help you out and make sure you know when to stand your dog etc.

Thanks for the replies, it's much appreciated. Just got to finish trimming and then bath him.
What does everyone think about treats? Some people have recommended small pieces, others a larger chunk (almost) that can be hidden in the hand.