20/08/2025
Dog shows are such a fun day out — for humans and dogs alike!
Depending on the event, you might find agility rings, livestock showing, highland dancing, vintage cars, fairground rides, or even timber tossing (yes, it’s a thing in Scotland!).
But for your dog, it’s a day full of strange sounds, smells, and surprises.
So, how do you know if a dog show is right for your dog?
Here are a few questions I always recommend asking:
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✅ What’s your dog’s breed, age, and health status?
Some dogs, especially flat-faced breeds, struggle in warm weather.
And even if it’s not hot, stress — even good stress — raises body temperature. Add a few degrees to whatever the weather forecast says.
✅ How do they handle busy environments?
Have they practised calm behaviours around crowds?
Can they walk past dogs without getting overly excited or worried?
Have they been to any Dog Friendly or public events before?
✅ Can they relax for long periods?
Dog shows often start in the morning and go all day.
If you’re planning to be shopping, eating, watching events — can your dog settle beside you while all that’s going on?
✅ Can you advocate for your dog confidently?
If someone lets their child run up to say hello, or another dog gets too close, are you comfortable stepping in to protect your dog’s space?
If not, you might unintentionally create nervous behaviours that take longer to undo.
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🎯 If your dog isn’t quite ready, that’s okay. These are all trainable skills.
In fact, one of the best things you can do is visit a show briefly, stay on the outskirts, and use the experience to assess how your dog copes.
Make mental notes:
How do they react to loudspeakers or cheering?
What about food smells or dropped scraps?
Do they cope around prams, pushchairs, or fairground rides?
Can they lie down and relax near all the excitement?
Then take your dog home on a high note, and come back later yourself to enjoy the rest of the show.
Or, if it’s too far to travel twice, you can always arrange for a dog sitter and enjoy the full day knowing your dog is relaxed at home.
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🐶 At Dog Tales, we believe in setting dogs up for success.
That’s why at the Strathardle Highland Gathering this Saturday, we’ve created a Calm Zone for any dogs who need a break from the action. No judgement — just support.
Because even the best-trained dogs have off days.
What matters most is that they feel safe, supported, and understood.
