What equipment you decide to use with your show dog can
    make a big impact on your dog and how he shows in the ring.  
    It's important to use equipment that is properly fitted and that
    feels comfortable for you and your dog.  The links at the bottom
    of this page will help you find the equipment you need.

    Collars
    Martingales
    A martingale (also known as a limit slip, greyhound collar or kindness
    trainer) is a collar that (when properly fitted) will close up enough to
    keep your dog from slipping his head out, but not so much that it will
    continue to close on the dog's neck. A martingale collar can be made
    from chain, nylon, leather or a combination.  
















                                A properly fitted braided leather
                                martingale.

    The martingale should not be so small that it can close up overly tight
    around the dog's neck.  A smaller martingale (that can continue
    closing if the dog is pulling) should not be used on a dog that pulls
    on the lead.

    Slip or Choke Collars
    Choke (also known as a slip collar) collars can be made out of chain,
    leather or nylon. Choke collars close up as the leash is tightened.  
    Because choke chains are uncomfortable to the dog they are not
    recommended by positive reinforcement trainers.  If a dog is to use a
    choke or slip collar it should be trained not to pull first so that it
    doesn't get choked by the collar.  Also, nylon is preferred over chain.










                              Choke chains are not recommended
                              as they continue to close up on the
                              dog's neck creating discomfort.

    All In Ones
    There are several "all in ones" that are both a collar and lead in one.
    They come in a martingale style and also in a simple loop style that
    has a loop with a stopper that keeps it in place on the dog.  These
    are a great choice, particularly for smaller to medium sized dogs.
















                                 A fancy braided kangaroo leather
                                 loop lead.  Really nice for
                                 small dogs.













                             A Resco brand all in one lead.









                                       
                                This is a resco with a kindness
                                neckpiece.











                            Martingale all in one show leads in nylon
                            and chain.   


    Many of my clients use these british martingale show leads in the ring
    and for practice.  These great leads are way under used and are a
    great choice for medium to larger dogs.  


                           





                                   British martingale all in one. Choose
                                   a color that matches your dog.



    Leads
    If you aren't using an "all in one" then you will need a lead to go with
    your collar.  Choose a lead that is as thin as you can get away with.  
    Leather is the best choice.  Leather show leads come in a variety of
    lengths and widths of flat leather or you might choose a fancy,
    braided leather lead with beads.

    Video of how to properly hold and prepare your lead for the ring -
    coming soon!


    Links for ordering leads, collars and all in ones
    These are links for ordering leads, collars and all in ones.  Some
    offer ready made basic show leads, other offer intricate custom made
    leads and collars made from leather with beautiful beadwork.  Check
    them out!





    Dog Show Checklist
    This is a list of items that you may need at the dog show. Some items
    (like chair and exercise pen) will depend on the show site as there
    may be no room for ex pens or chairs may be provided.

         Crate (and crate pad)
    Exercise pen*
    Dolly or wheels
    Show Lead
    Chair
    Bait
    Water and bowl
    Towels
    Blanket (to put over crate)
    Grooming Supplies (comb, brush, shears, etc)
    Waterless or no rinse shampoo (in case of emergency)*
    Benadryl (in case your dog is bitten by a bug or spider)
    Judging program
    Directions to show site
Equipment
Positive Training for Show Dogs.com
Copyright © 2007 Positive Training for Show Dogs.com
The information on this page may not be reproduced, republished or mirrored on another webpage or website.
Be sure to use equipment
that is comfortable for you
and for your dog!