In the Judge’s Eyes

One of the most frustrating – yet also most fascinating – aspects of dog shows is that there is no absolute truth. Two judges can stand side by side, look at the same dog, and still perceive it completely differently. That doesn’t mean one of them is wrong – it simply means that each judge views the dog through their own filter of experience, reference points, and breed ideals.

As a handler or dog owner, it’s therefore essential to understand what actually lies behind a judge’s decision – and how you can prepare yourself and your dog to show your very best sides, no matter who is standing in the center of the ring.

Even before you’ve set your dog up, the evaluation has begun. The first impression – your posture, body language, and your dog’s expression – sets the tone. A judge who values attitude and ring presence will immediately notice the dog that “owns” the ring, regardless of size. Another judge who focuses on breed standard and construction will look straight for proportions, bone, and angulation.

Tip! Observe the judge during earlier classes.
Watch which types of dogs he or she favors. Is it movement, outline, head, or that special charisma that catches the eye? These are clues to what you should highlight in your own presentation.

 

Different Eyes, Different Priorities

It’s easy to think that “a good dog always wins,” but in practice, there’s room for interpretation in every standard. A judge with deeper breed knowledge may place more weight on important breed details. An all-round judge might instead emphasize overall impression, balance, and movement.

The same dog can therefore:

- win big under a judge who values expression, lines, and key breed features,

- but be beaten by a dog with fantastic movement under another judge who prioritizes function and construction.

Conclusion: You can’t change your dog’s type – but you can influence how you present the type it actually is.

 

Your Role as a Handler – Getting the Details Right

This is where those small, yet crucial details come in. It’s often you who determines whether the judge sees your dog’s best side – or not.

- Pace: Always match your speed to your dog’s movement. A compact, powerful dog often needs more drive from behind but a calmer front. A lighter, more elegant dog should glide forward with a spring in its step.

- Position: Always keep your dog placed so that the judge sees its silhouette – not its back or a diagonal view.

- Posture: Your body language is contagious. If you look like a winner, your dog will too.

- Timing: Don’t reveal everything at once – build the picture. Let your dog breathe, collect itself, and show energy at just the right moment.

 

Reading the Judge – and Reading Your Dog

Many handlers focus on the dog and forget the judge. The most successful handlers are those who always keep an eye on the judge’s position, expression, and tempo. Is the judge engaged and watching you closely? Keep your rhythm. Has the judge lost interest? Change your pace or show another angle.

At the same time, you must be in tune with your dog’s energy. If you sense your dog losing focus, take a micro step back, smile, use your voice. The show ring is not a parade – it’s a partnership.

 

Between Shows – Sharpen Both Body and Mind

When you’re not showing every weekend, it’s the perfect time to polish the details.

Train to:

- Strengthen carriage and balance: balance ball work, cavaletti, swimming, and water training all improve movement control and joint and back stability.

- Increase connection: short, playful sessions in front of a mirror or camera. Practice catching your dog’s eye, maintaining focus, and keeping energy alive.

- Improve your own posture: film yourself. How do you look when you move with your dog? Are your shoulders straight, eyes forward, and steps light?

This is when you lay the foundation for that magical feeling when everything just clicks in the ring.

 

In Conclusion – Knowledge, Not Luck

A truly skilled handler doesn’t rely on luck.
He or she understands the judge, knows their dog, and can adapt in the moment. It’s also important to learn which judges appreciate your dog’s particular type – and which don’t – and to enter under those who do.

If you’re new to showing, attend ring training or a handling class – that’s where you’ll learn to read both your dog and yourself in motion, and get feedback on those small details that make the biggest difference.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not luck that decides who wins – it’s feeling, timing, and understanding.