Rekindling Kindness At The Dog Shows

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124 – November/December, 2025

By Barbara E. Magera MD

In the last two decades, social norms have changed. Mannerisms of respect and courtesy common to yesteryears are no longer routinely practiced today.

In the dog show world, mutual respect and collegiality amongst exhibitors are the traditional norm. When poor sportsmanship is exhibited, this behavior is long remembered by judges, handlers, exhibitors, and the audience. The AKC and breed clubs state in their policy and procedures that good sportsmanship in the ring is paramount. The AKC national club and its many breed clubs outline on their websites, under ethical guidelines, the expected behavior of its members and exhibitors.

Today, what defines good sportsmanship? What activities would be considered bad behavior? What consequences exist for those who demonstrate malicious or reckless behavior at a dog show? Is unacceptable behavior confined to the ring, or does it apply to ringside or the showgrounds? Do negative comments posted on social media constitute bad sportsmanship or unethical behavior?

Anyone who has shown a dog in conformation is familiar with challenging scenarios in the show ring. Common examples include an aggressive exhibitor who allows their dog to deliberately “run up”, “ease out of line” another dog in the ring, or engage in double handling outside the ring. These behaviors are fairly obvious to seasoned judges, experienced exhibitors, handlers, and fanciers.

Click here to read the complete article
124 – November/December, 2025

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Posted by AnthonyA on Nov 11 2025. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.