The question specifically asks for ONE thing, and as a bonus I will give you five things to keep in mind.

· Pay attention. One of the things that really annoys me is when I have been judging for five hours – and my ring procedure is always the same – and then an exhibitor asks me in which direction to move her dog, or simply moves in the wrong direction. It simply shows that you have not paid attention.

· Slow movements. This is really for the betterment of your dog – to make the showing less stressful. Don’t get flustered and try to set your dog up very fast. Make your movements more relaxing for your dog as you set him up. George Alston used to tell people to move at half-speed. You will feel that you are moving VERY slowly, but in reality, you are moving at the proper speed. If a judge hurries you or gets annoyed, simply don’t show to that judge again.

· Don’t assume and don’t give up. Keep showing your dog. Find something that keeps your dog’s attention and keeps him happy. I DO look back down the line, and if your dog is showing a great attitude and is standing properly, it helps. If showing is not made fun for your dog, he will not show well or look as good as he could.

· Enjoy yourself. If showing your dog is very stressful for you, maybe you should have someone else show your dog, because your nerves travel right down the lead to your dog. Look at your time in the ring as an opportunity to continue building your relationship with your dog and just have fun and smile. (I tell this last one to every Juniors class that I judge).

· Finally, learn the difference between baiting and feeding. I realize there are many professionals who continue to feed their dog all the time. There is nothing more annoying to a judge than when we ask to see the bite and all we see is a mouthful of bait, or the back of your head as you bend over to look at the bite. Bait should be used sparingly, and ring-time is not dinner time.

I hope this helps you. Have fun and good luck.

About the judge: Mr. Sid Marx is an AKC judge with 50+ years experience judging.  He currently judges the Sporting, Hound, & Terrier Groups, Best in Show and Jr's.  He also writes a wonderful column for Dog News titled, The Judge Marx the Spot.