Off-season or golden opportunity?
Build the winner – and the show year – before the season even begins
Every new year, the same thought pops up for many exhibitors: “It’s a bit quiet now, we’ll get to it when the season starts.”
We would argue the opposite. The first months of the year are not a pause – they are the most important period of the entire show year.
This is when you have time. Time to think, plan, build, and fine-tune. Once the season is underway, nothing should need to be rushed. By then, the dog should be ready – physically, mentally, and technically.
Build the winner now, not in April!
A dog that is expected to perform in the ring needs more than the right coat and condition just in time for the first spring show. Strength, stability, and balance take time to develop, as does endurance in movement and a consistent, functional gait.
Many start “serious” training when shows are just around the corner. The problem is that by then, the body should already be prepared. What you work on during the winter is the foundation – what allows the dog to move with ease, elasticity, and confidence when it really counts.
For those of us living in Northern Europe, this time of year often comes with challenges. Weather, footing, and limited daylight make it difficult to carry out optimal physical training and outdoor ring training. That is exactly why it’s so important to explore alternative training options. Water training and training in indoor dog halls allow us to continue developing the dog’s physical condition, movement, and teamwork – regardless of the season.
Swimming and water treadmill training are invaluable tools for show dogs because they:
- strengthen muscles without stressing the joints
- improve core and rear-end stability
- increase mobility and body awareness
- help the dog develop a more correct movement pattern
A dog that is strong in its body doesn’t need to “try hard” to move beautifully – it simply happens. Judges notice this immediately, even if it’s not always explicitly stated in the critique.
In a dog hall, you have the opportunity to work methodically on details that are easily lost outdoors:
- movement tempo
- transitions between trot and halt
- precision in the stack
- focus and connection despite other teams nearby
Indoors, you can also fine-tune your own handling – small changes in position, stride length, or timing that make a big difference in how the dog is perceived in the ring. Many dog halls have mirrors along the walls, making it easier to spot and correct even the smallest details.
Attending a handler course during the off-season is a smart investment. Even very experienced handlers benefit greatly from gaining new perspectives, adjusting fine details, and revisiting the basics with fresh eyes. A well-run course provides a deeper understanding of how to best highlight your dog’s strengths while learning to subtly and naturally downplay any weaknesses. It also builds confidence in the ring and creates a more harmonious partnership between handler and dog – something that is always visible in the overall picture. When the handler feels secure, the dog reflects it immediately. That’s why handler confidence is one of the most underestimated success factors in the show ring.
Plan your 2026
Sit down. Properly.
Take out your calendar and plan the year calmly and thoughtfully.
Consider:
- what goals you have for your dog
- which shows are truly worth prioritizing
- which judges suit your dog best
- how to balance training, competition, and rest
Judge lists are updated gradually. Those who stay attentive and strategic can make smart choices instead of spontaneous ones. Browse each country’s show calendar and create your ideal schedule. Why not plan together with a friend? Traveling and sharing accommodation with fellow exhibitors is not only cost-effective – it’s usually much more fun as well.
Many exhibitors also review their wardrobes at this time of year and invest in a new outfit for the upcoming season. At Canis Certo, we launched our new 2026 collection at the end of 2025. Take a look here: Products – Canis Certo
Best of luck in the rings this season, wishes from all of us at Canis Certo!
