Ring Procedure When entering the ring remember to keep  your dog on the left and move at a comfortable distance from the dog in front.  Don't crowd or gait your dog too slowly because of the slower speed of the dog in front.  If this happens, stop and wait for space and then gait at the dog's correct speed.  Keep your eyes on your dog, direction and the judge for further instructions.  When asked to stop give yourself plenty of room to set your dog up.  You should be able do do this with a minimum of difficulty and as quickly as possible, knowing your dog's weakness and covering them speedily and making the most of his better points.  At this stage, the judge may tell you to relax while the exhibits in front are examined.  At this time you should keep an eye on the judge as very often a judge may glance down the line while moving or examining another exhibit.  It is important that control of placement can be maintained with a minimum of difficulty, and so a quick adjustment of a leg or neck placement will give a better overall picture of your dog. When it is your turn for the judge's examination, have your dog standing ready for viewing by the judge immediately after the completion of the previous dog's gaiting.  Don't overhandle your dog, try to remain at arm's length, but have control of the dog's head at all time either by hand or lead.  Move to the rear of the dog as the judge examines the front and then move to the head of your dog as the judge examines the rest of the dog.  Be ready to return to the dog's side to stand him if the judge moves back to get an overall picture of the whole dog. Gaiting Patterns Listen closely to the judge as he gives you instructions for gaiting your dog.  You should keep your dog's lead hanging.  Remember to never allow yourself to come between the judge and the dog and keep your dog on your left side unless the judge's position dictates otherwise.  The triangle, straight up and down, and round the ring patterns are illustrated below as they are the most common used, and the only ones regulated for the PAL Junior Handlers Competition. The judge should not find it necessary to move position to gain a correct view of the dog while these movements are being carried out.  In order to master the ability of moving in complete harmony with your dog, it is essential to realise that your dog is capable of free and efficient movement without you.  All breeds should be shown on a loose lead, and moving with your exhibit should appear natural and easy.  This is the only time, apart from the individual examination, that you have the judge's full attention so you should make the most of it.  It is a good idea to arrive at ringside early enough so that you can observe the ring procedure of the judge while he is working with another breed or class.  When gaiting is completed "present" your dog positioned to give its side view to the judge.  The judge may require you to set your dog up on return, if not, the easiest way of animating and positioning it to its best advantage may be by baiting him. Final Judging As the last handler is gaiting, set your exhibit up, making sure you are not too close to the dog in front.  As the judge reviews the line be ready; you should be standing or kneeling depending on the breed.  Watch your dog and keep one eye on the judge so that you do not miss any instructions, but don't stare at the judge.  Do not relax  your dog until you are told judging is finished.  If not placed, leave the ring quietly and thank the judge. Sportsmanship In the Ring Never show bad sportsmanship, give the judge as much respect for his opinion as you would demand for your own.  Win graciously and lose graciously and remember the dog that cannot be defeated doesn't exist.  At each show you are exhibiting not only for the judge inside the ring, but also to the spectators outside the ring.  Through your actions, you are creating reactions and leaving impressions, so let them always be favourable ones.  Ultimately we are all concerned with the quality and the welfare of dogs and if this is our first consideration, the best should always win. CONTINUED NEXT PAGE