717 — Showing Dogs on a Shoestring Budget

Smart Strategies for Budget-Friendly Success in the Conformation Ring

By Laura Reeves • Pure Dog Talk

Pure Dog Talk is the voice of purebred dogs. We bring you conversations with legends of the sport and offer practical, actionable guidance for creating an extraordinary life with your purebred dog. In this episode, host Laura Reeves dives into a timely and essential topic: how to show dogs effectively without breaking the bank.

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Introduction: Making Dog Shows Work in Expensive Times

Dog shows are more plentiful than ever—but the costs are rising. Entry fees, fuel, lodging, grooming supplies, and time away from work or family can quickly turn a joyful hobby into a financial strain. Showing on a shoestring doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means strategizing, choosing wisely and investing where it matters most.

As Laura says, “Your passion is our purpose.”
These tips will help you maximize results while minimizing expenses.

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1. Start With a Clear Goal

Before entering a single show, determine exactly what you want to accomplish:

• Finishing a Championship
  You must attend shows with reliable breed entries.

• Earning a Grand Championship
  Prioritize majors and competition.

• Ranking in Breed or Group Standings
  Breed rankings require breed entries; group rankings require competitive groups.

“You can’t make a plan until you make a goal.”

Knowing your goal drives every decision—from which shows to attend to how far you should travel.

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2. Research Shows and Judges Like a Pro

Not every show is equal, and not every judge appreciates the same breed style.

Tools to Use

• InfoDog — view historical entries in your breed and region

• AKC Judges Directory — review judges’ assignment histories and past results

Understanding which judges favor your dog’s strengths can save hundreds of dollars in wasted entries.

“Don’t write a judge off forever—just write them off for that particular dog.”

Make informed entries. Your wallet will thank you.

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3. Build a Support Network

Showing is more affordable—and far more enjoyable—with a team.

Benefits of a “Dog Show Crew”

• Share travel and lodging costs

• Split grooming space

• Help hold dogs and support each other in the ring

• Enjoy camaraderie rather than showing alone

The Pure Dog Talk Patrons Group is an excellent place to build these relationships.

“Your enjoyment of dog shows increases when you have people to hang out with—and it saves you money.”

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4. Train and Groom on a Schedule

Showing an untrained or poorly conditioned dog is one of the most expensive mistakes exhibitors make.

Create a grooming and conditioning routine—put it in your phone like any other appointment:

• Tuesday: full groom, brush-out, trim, or strip

• Weekly: training sessions

• Before shows: conditioning, coat checks, toenails, ring readiness

“If it’s not on your calendar, you probably won’t do it.”

A competitive dog is a cost-effective dog.

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5. Travel Strategically for Better Returns

Sometimes the best show for your goals is not the closest one.

A single well-planned trip can be more effective—and cheaper—than several local shows with no results.

“One productive road trip is often less expensive than four local shows that get you nothing but indigestion.”

Avoid unreliable online judge-rating sites and seek guidance from trusted mentors or experienced breeders.

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6. Consider a Professional Handler—Strategically

Hiring a handler does not mean outsourcing your dog’s entire career. Often, sending a dog with a professional for a single weekend or a short campaign can achieve goals that would otherwise take years.

Choose only handlers who are:
✔ Members of the Professional Handler Association
✔ Participants in the AKC Registered Handler Program

“Sometimes a handler can get things done that you simply can’t—and it pencils out.”

This can be the most cost-effective route when targeted wisely.

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7. Start With a Good Dog—and Don’t Rush Puppies

Entering a dog that isn’t competitive wastes money and sets everyone up for frustration.

Laura’s advice for puppies:

• Show in 4–6 months for exposure

• Skip regular conformation until the dog is mature and competitive

• Use that time to do obedience, rally, scent work, or socialization

“Bring your dog out when it is competitive and ready to win.”

Waiting until two or three years old is often the smartest path—especially in breeds that mature slowly.

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8. Trim the Extras: Save on Small Expenses

Small savings add up quickly:

• Skip expensive post-show dinners

• Bring food and supplies

• Share hotel rooms

• Use the superintendent’s direct entry option when possible to avoid online fees (save $4–$5 per entry)

“You can pay for multiple entries with the money you save by skipping one fancy dinner.”

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9. Learn by Helping: Side Gigs With Handlers

Many handlers welcome help and are willing to teach exhibitors who show interest.

You might assist with:

• Holding dogs

• Walking dogs

• Setting up and tearing down

• Grooming prep

• Ring support

In return, you gain invaluable hands-on experience.

“Handlers will spend enormous time teaching you if you show interest—and they always need help.”