XVI. Exhibitor Guidelines.

A dog show is an evaluation of breeding stock, and many breeders have made a lifelong commitment to their breed. Judges have spent years studying dogs before stepping into the ring to judge. They are serious about the sport, and exhibitors should be as well. Exhibitors’ behavior and deportment speak to the degree of commitment they have to their dogs and to the sport. The following are suggested guidelines for UKC Exhibitors:

• Exhibitors should accept the decision of the Judge gracefully. There should be no snatching of ribbons, loud comments or derision of the Judge or their decisions, either in the ring or out.

• Exhibitors’ clothing should be neat and clean. Their apparel speaks to the respect they have for the sport, the show and its proceedings.

• Exhibitors’ dogs should be clean and trimmed in a manner consistent with the UKC rules and breed standards.

• Exhibitors should take care when discussing the judging with the Judge to not appear confrontational. The judging was the Judge’s opinion that day, and poor behavior on the part of the exhibitor will not change the outcome.

• Exhibitors should make an effort to help new exhibitors. We were all new to dog shows at one time and we appreciated when someone helped us.

• Exhibitors should always leave a show site in the condition they found it. Help the show committee and clean up your area.

• Exhibitors should take care not to promote rumors and negative comments about dogs, other exhibitors or judges.

• Exhibitors should remember they are at the show at the invitation of the show-giving club. In order to ensure being invited back, exhibitors should do whatever they can to assist the host club and promote the family flavor of UKC events.