7 professional tips for handlers who want to shine in the ring
Being a handler is more than running a circle and hoping for the best. It is a mix of psychology, timing, body control, and the ability to keep your dog in their best version of themselves — even when the ring around you is pure chaos.
Quick overview of the tips:
- Your energy = your dog’s energy
- A pre-ring ritual your dog can rely on
- Using the lead as a tool, not an anchor
- Eye contact and micro-signals
- Stacking: less hand, more guidance
- Movement: the tempo that flatters your dog
- Final impression: leaving the ring is still presentation
1. Your energy = your dog’s energy
Your dog reads your micro-signals faster than you realise...
2. A pre-ring ritual your dog can rely on
Professional handlers rarely walk straight into the ring cold...
3. Using the lead as a tool, not an anchor
The lead should be soft and almost invisible...
4. Eye contact and micro-signals
The best handlers don’t stare at their dogs constantly...
5. Stacking: less hand, more guidance
One of the most common handler mistakes...
6. Movement: the tempo that flatters your dog
Every dog has an ideal speed where they look their best...
7. Final impression: leaving the ring is still presentation
Many handlers mentally switch off too early...
Closing thought
Handling is an art — a mix of energy, communication and timing...