Humans have always taken pride in exhibiting anything that was desirable and pleasing, always wanting to be at the top of everything they were involved in, even if it were to rely and depend completely on the pedigree, power and ability of the animals they owned. So began this activity of show dog training.

Contests, involving skill, beauty and training whether it is the small town livestock and pet show or the huge, century old affair of the English, Crufts, have always been a challenge to the competing male and his show dog, heeling their way in the halls of fame.

Charles Cruft, a British travelling salesman started this show in 1891, and it has been a regular annual event since that date.

In the year 1991, the centennial year of the Crufts, the show that was conducted at The National Exhibition Center at Birmingham, in the United Kingdom, and attracted a massive turnout of over 22,000 canine entrants.

The quality of some of these canines, the diversity of the trainers and the breeds that are on parade at these shows, never cease to amaze one.

Show dogs are drawn from all breeds, with the main thrust and object of the past time being to exhibit and promote the best bloodlines, training and dispositions.

It is a challenge to every dog owner to have his animal in the act and be part of the fame and glory witnessed by the staggering amount of spectators as was in the centennial show.

The process of show dog training starts with a membership in a kennel club or pet association with the right connections, and continues on a long and enjoyable journey of local shows and exhibitions.

Participation in local shows involves having the dog regularly examined and vaccinated by the proper veterinary authorities to meet all health requirements and to comply with special rules and regulations and acceptable practices in order to have your pet ready for showing.

One can never ignore the mind pool of the many experienced trainers who are always on hand and willing to share the thoughts and training tips and knowledge. Their importance stems from their ability to tell you which breeds tend to rank the highest in shows and their actual guidance in choosing the proper dog for showing.

A lot of effort and time is spent on the on training and refining correct postures for sitting, heeling, trotting and standing and for running the circle and the obstacle course with the handler These are basic behavior in show dog training, irrespective of the breed of the dog.

Another common quality in show dogs not related to its breed or pedigree is the ability for the dog to be very patient and relaxed and not fidget while waiting to be judged and while being handled by the judges.

Depending upon breed and class, dogs may also be asked to jump, overcome certain obstacles and work livestock.

The important aspect of socializing the animal with other dogs, in show dog training, cannot be forgotten or taken lightly. Show dogs will have to be among, and mingle with, possibly thousands of others animals; hence it is imperative that the dog behaves accordingly to avoid being disqualified on account of aggressive behavior.

Last, but not the least in show dog training would be the professional grooming before the actual show and the treats and toys for after the show.