Ring Patterns

UPDATE April , 2014
I have joined a discussion group on FB called Learning to Show Dogs and it has a lot of information on it! Here is some links from there that may be helpful with the basic patterns:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/324624280935663/permalink/628465127218242/

https://www.facebook.com/notes/learning-to-show-dogs/links-to-gaiting-patterns/502800143118075

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWtrqs70wwI

There is also some FB pages that sell / trade show equipment . Never hurts to look! Have a great weekend everyone!

The straight Down and Back is more common in the Group Ring, while the pattern done diagonally as shown below is very common in the individual breed evaluations :

Triangle or Down, Across and Back:

You should also practice moving at a nice smooth trot  in a circle ("around" the ring) . Advance showmanship competitions may include an "L" or "T" Pattern. Have as many people as possible talk to and touch your dog with you holding them for reassurance from a young age. Of particular importance is your dog getting used to having it's teeth looked at, a paw held, it's ears touched and being picked up and put down, and also getting used to riding in a car. This not only helps for shows, but can make trips and vet visits go much smoother ! Practice makes perfect :) On rare occasion, a judge may have a reverse triangle or other request, watch the dogs ahead of you and don't be afraid to ask the steward or judge to clarify if you aren't sure what to do. 

 Have Fun and Good Luck !