Midland English Setter Society

The English Setter has become a popular show dog, due largely to it's glamour and elegance. Classes are held at many local shows, and also at most of the general championship events.

A number of shows each year feature classes for our breed. Dogs are judged according to the Breed Standard agreed by the Kennel Club. The Standard used is the same at all British shows - it is the judge's interpretation which can vary! Details of these events can be found in publications such as Dog World and Our Dogs. The Breed Club Shows are of particular interest to English Setter enthusiasts - there is a calendar of all Championship and all Breed Open shows, and General Open shows also often have classes for us.

So, what is this dog showing business? You may well ask - there are plenty of people who have vowed never to do anything so silly as stand in the ring with a manicured and pampered pooch – and most of them spend a good part of their weekends at dog shows! You will have chosen an English Setter to live with you because you like its appearance, amongst other reasons. It is therefore hardly surprising that dog shows interest anyone who likes to see pedigree dogs at their best. So what types of shows are there, and where do you start?

Companion Dog Show

The first rung of the ladder is the Companion Dog Show, (formerly known as Exemption Shows) always run in aid of charity, often as part of a village fete. Usually there are 4 classes for pedigree dogs, followed by various novelty classes. Novelty classes are not restricted to cross-breeds, and dogs entered in any class do not need to be registered at the Kennel Club.  Companion Dog shows (advertised in local papers) are great fun, ideal for practicing showing and are an excellent way of socializing young dogs. Entry fees are modest  - prizes can vary from good to lavish!

Open Shows are the next rung on the ladder. All dogs at these and subsequent levels of show have to be registered at the Kennel Club. General Open Shows are run by local canine societies. A range of classes are offered, some for a specific breeds and other variety classes such as Any Variety Gundog, or Any Variety Puppy. These shows are quite numerous – there may be several each year held within twenty miles of where you live. They are advertised in Dog World or Our Dogs. Send off for a Schedule of classes, see which ones your dog is eligible for and post the entry. Entry fees are up to £5 per class. Beware – it is at this stage that the rules and regulations start, so read them carefully or ideally get a doggy friend or your puppy’s breeder to give you a hand. The good news is that the rules are generally the same for each show, are always printed in the schedule and you soon get the hang of them. Open Shows are a great introduction to showing – there are plenty of them and they are fairly inexpensive. You will soon get to know other exhibitors in the breed – English Setter folk are a sociable lot (they get it from their dogs)

Championship Shows are the top rung – this is serious stuff! General shows have classes for many individual breeds, and are usually held over several days. The standard at British shows is very high, and increasingly exhibitors are travelling here from abroad. These shows too are advertised in the dog press, entry fees average £20 for each dog with additional costs for parking, catalogues etc. There is no doubt that the summer shows, often in beautiful settings are wonderful – but go prepared for rain too! Any pedigree dog can enter a championship show but the expense means a bit of practice at lower levels is advisable first. The best dog and best bitch in most breeds at this level will gain Challenge Certificates. When a setter has three CC’s from different judges, it gains the title of Show Champion  – a greatly coveted award which ensures a place in the history of the breed. Certain awards at Championship level will qualify your dog for Crufts – the world’s premier canine event where in excess of 20,000 dogs compete for top honours. This is every exhibitor's highlight of the showing year, and is the biggest dog show in the world.

If, after reading all this you are still keen to show, consider attending Ringcraft classes. Showing is simply a matter of presenting a dog at its best, so puppies must learn to stand still while the judge assesses their structure, and move (in a straight line and at a steady pace!) when required. Handlers need to learn how to get the best from their unruly puppy – all setters take time to grow up, so don’t despair if you feel yours is the worst puppy ever. Judges do not expect perfection, but equally you want your pup’s best points to be appreciated. Patience is essential! Your puppy’s breeder, or a dog-showing friend will recommend a local class, or alternatively ask at reputable pet shops.

Now your puppy is finally getting near to six months old and is almost old enough to show. English Setters should look natural, not barbered, but some trimming is advisable to enhance their looks. Ask the breeder if they will either do the trimming for you (watch how it’s done) or teach you how. It isn’t difficult, but easier to learn by watching than from a textbook.

Then – select a local open show, and send in your entry. Pack a show bag the night before (show lead, water bowl, treats, slobber-cloth, brush and comb, pick-up bags), bath the dog in a mild shampoo, set the alarm to ensure you arrive in plenty of time and…sleep well!

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So, did you enjoy your first show? No doubt you will have learned some tips, and hopefully gained a few friends. Showing is simply another facet to the companionship we have from our dogs – oh, and which was the best dog at that last show? Why, the one you brought home with you of course!

Good Luck!

Related pages:
Forthcoming Open Shows : Championship and breed Show Diary 2008 : 
Pup of the Year

Midland English Setter Society offer this information in good faith. However, no liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions. Page last updated 1 August 2007