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Ever watched a dog show on TV and thought, “That looks amazing, but I could never do that?” Guess what? You can! Every single person you see in the ring started exactly where you are: curious, maybe a little intimidated, and absolutely in love with dogs. If you have that last part down, you already have what it takes to begin.
The best place to start is with the breed you adore—whether it’s a breed you own now or one you’ve always dreamed of sharing your life with. Reach out to the breed’s parent club; that’s the national AKC (American Kennel Club) club dedicated to preserving the breed. They’re a wealth of resources, from breeder referrals to finding local clubs where you can learn the ropes.
Local kennel clubs are your gateway to the dog show world. They host Conformation shows, Obedience trials, Rally, Agility—you name it. Most clubs happily welcome newcomers with open arms. Check out the club directory online to find one near you. Attend a meeting, volunteer at a show, and ask questions. Dog people love sharing what they know!
You don’t have to start by handling your own dog at The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Begin small. Look up Conformation handling classes near you, if you want to show like the folks on TV. Breed clubs and local kennel clubs can help you find “match” shows (sometimes called fun matches), which are designed for practice in a relaxed environment. You and your dog can both learn without the stress of having championship points on the line.
Not interested in traditional Conformation? The AKC offers so much more. Rally, Obedience, Agility, Fast CAT, and Scent Work are fantastic ways to bond with your dog and join the community. Even mixed-breed dogs can compete in many of these events through AKC’s Canine Partners program.
The AKC has so many ways that you can become involved and they are showcased through their AKC Family Dog programs. Things like CGC, which stands for Canine Good Citizen, where you and your dog can showcase your dog’s excellent real-life social skills, or Trick Dog, where you can earn a title for demonstrating tricks, are available to everyone with a dog! AKC Fit Dog rewards you for being fit along with your dog by logging miles of walking; and AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy is for younger dogs. S.T.A.R. stands for Socialization, Training, Activity, and a Responsible owner; everything your puppy needs to have a great start in life, and a way for you to begin your lifelong bonding.
Some of these titles can even be earned remotely via video. The AKC is making it easier than ever for everyone who loves dogs to be able to participate on a level that interests them.
Find a mentor who inspires you. A good mentor can teach you how to present your dog, navigate rules, and celebrate the wins (and the lessons learned from losses). Most exhibitors are happy to help newcomers who are eager to learn.
Offer to help at shows—set up rings, steward, or run errands for the show committee; there is always something that needs to be done. You’ll learn the behind-the-scenes magic and meet people who can open doors for you. Plus, clubs thrive on volunteers, and giving back is part of what makes this community special.
If you have kids who love dogs, the AKC has programs designed just for them. Pee Wee Special Attraction classes are for children ages 5–9 to gain experience in a relaxed, positive setting, perfect for building confidence and learning ring etiquette.
For kids ages 9 to 18, Junior Showmanship offers a chance to compete in handling classes where the focus is on the Junior’s skills, not the dog’s. Junior Handlers learn responsibility, sportsmanship, and presentation skills that last a lifetime. Many top professional handlers and breeders started in Juniors; it’s an incredible entry point for the next generation of dog enthusiasts.
Want your child to get involved? Check your local club’s premium lists for Pee Wee events or Junior Handling classes, and reach out to the Junior Coordinators in your area. The friendships, teamwork, and pride they’ll gain are priceless.
At the heart of every event is the same thing: a deep respect and love for dogs. Whether you’re earning your first ribbon in Conformation or watching your dog rocket down a Fast CAT track, the joy is the same.
You can do this. The world of dog shows and trials is waiting for you, full of friendships, adventures, and countless moments that remind you why you enjoy sharing life with a dog in the first place.
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