THE BENCH SHOW 115 



In the ring carry a small piece of fresh meat 

 concealed in your hand and let him smell it 

 occasionally; this will inject considerable life 

 and animation into him that otherwise might 

 be lacking. While in the ring do not crowd 

 your dog up close to the judge, but get as far 

 away as the ring will permit. If he is a good 

 one, the judge will never overlook him. If the 

 sawdust in the ring is deep, clean a space that 

 his feet and toes may be seen. If you do not 

 succeed in getting his muscles hard and firm, 

 stomach off, and body devoid of surplus flesh, 

 forfeit your entrance money and keep him at 

 home. 



When showing on the bench, ascertain the 

 location of the nearest vacant lot or park to 

 the exhibition building, and give him a good 

 long romp of not less than an hour daily. If 

 accustomed to the " patent biscuits " usually 

 fed at the bench shows feed on lean beef or 

 mutton. If these instructions are carried out 

 faithfully the condition of your dog will remain 

 good for several weeks; otherwise the close of 

 the first circuit will find him a physical wreck. 

 When at home between dates of shows, keep up 

 his work, even if it be only for a few days. 

 Accustom him to strangers and strange sights 

 and by the time you have him in fit condition to 



