The big day has arrived! You’ve signed up, your dog is prepped, and now it’s time to put all that preparation to the test. Here’s how to make sure both you and your Epagneul Breton have a fantastic day in the ring:
Grooming: Before heading into the spotlight, give your dog a final check. Comb out any burrs from the feathering, and while a bath is a nice touch, don’t overdo it—Epagneul Bretons are meant to look natural. A trim around scraggly ear or neck hairs can help, and don’t forget to clip those toenails. Even a slight change in posture caused by long nails can make a difference in how your dog appears to the judge.
Arrive Early: Even if your class starts later in the day, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the official start. UKC shows can move quickly, and you won’t want to miss your moment because another class wrapped up early. Plus, arriving early gives you time to get your dog settled and yourself familiarized with the venue.
Crating and Water: It’s a long day for your dog, so having a quiet space for them to rest is crucial. Bring a crate, whether you set it up inside or in your car, depending on the weather and venue. Make sure your dog has access to water, but watch out for spills—nobody wants a soggy dog walking into the ring!
Check-In: First stop when you arrive: the show secretary. You’ll be handed an armband with your dog’s number for the day. Keep this handy; it’s how the judges will identify your dog in the ring. If it’s your first show, don’t be shy about asking questions—the show community is always welcoming and willing to help.
Venue: UKC shows can be indoors or outdoors, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. You want to be comfortable and focused on your dog, not worried about the weather or venue conditions.
Showtime!
It’s your dog’s time to shine! When your class is called, head to the staging area. Give your dog one last pep talk, leash up, and take a deep breath—this is a proud moment for both of you.
Ring Procedures: You’ll enter the ring in a pre-determined order based on your armband number. The judge will typically start by having the group make a full circle around the ring before lining up. This is your dog’s time to shine, so move at a comfortable pace that shows off your dog’s natural gait. Don’t worry if your EB is a little too enthusiastic—judges know this breed is full of energy!
The judge will ask each handler to take their dog around the ring and/or to go "out and back," allowing them to observe the dog’s movement and expression. They’ll likely handle your dog as well, checking their bite, bone structure, and overall physical traits. Don’t be surprised if they feel through your dog’s feathering; it helps the judge assess the dog beneath the coat.
Stacking Your Dog: When it’s your dog’s turn to be examined, you’ll want to "stack" them in a strong, confident position—head held high, chest out, top line (back) straight, and legs evenly aligned. Even when the judge isn’t directly looking at your dog, try to maintain the stacked posture—you never know what angles or expressions the judge might be checking from afar.
The judge may ask the class to make another lap around the ring before determining placements. If your dog is selected as the class winner, congratulations! You’ll be called back later to compete against other class winners.
After the Ring
Whether you win or lose, the experience of showing your Epagneul Breton is something to be proud of. At major shows, such as the National Specialty, each dog receives a conformation rating (Excellent, Good, etc.), which provides valuable feedback for breeders. The conformation document will include general observations about your dog and the rating. The document is typically mailed to you shortly after the conclusion of the event. Even if your dog doesn’t take first place, earning an official rating is an achievement. It reflects the quality of your dog and the overall strength of the breed.
Remember, these dogs are first and foremost bird dogs. The form you show in the ring directly relates to the function in the field. A well-built dog is key to the endurance and drive that Epagneul Bretons are famous for.
So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re aiming for a ribbon or just curious to explore the show world, entering your Epagneul Breton in a conformation event is a rewarding way to celebrate the breed’s heritage—and a whole lot of fun, too!