Hints for Obedience Stewards

© Geoff Stern 1996, 1997, 1998. This document may not be copied, reprinted, or distributed without the permission of the author. Thanks for the advice and expertise of many instructors and trainers including George Hanson, Linda Holway, and Ruth Ivers of NEW ENGLAND DOG TRAINING CLUB; Fran Boyle, Rena Fucillo, Wendy McNaughton, and Betty Belliveau of CHARLES RIVER DOG TRAINING CLUB; and several members of the OBED-COMP and OBED-TEACH electronic mail lists. Special thanks to Roseann Mandell (as always) and to Pat Scott (of Fido Flats in Fremont, NE) who’ll recognize some of the wording here as her own. Errors, however, are mine. sternmandell@worldnet.att.net

Stewarding in obedience is a great way to support the sport and to represent the club. If you’re interested in showing your dog in obedience, stewarding also gives you an opportunity to observe the action close up. It’s a good way to learn some handling techniques, ring procedures, regulations, and the nuances of competition. Also you’ll get to meet some nice people, including judges (who aren’t ogres after all).

Here’s a list of some hints for stewards at AKC obedience trials and matches. If you’ve never stewarded before, don’t worry, it isn’t difficult — it’s fun. If you’re an experienced handler and you’ve stewarded before, you might skim through these hints to remind yourself of what you want to teach to rookie stewards.

Rules and Regulations

The judge runs the ring. Stewards are provided to assist the judge and can act only on the judge’s instructions. Some judges cede authority to stewards for logistical matters such as resolving conflicts in showing order or deciding where the handlers will go for the out-of-sight sits and downs in the Open class; but ultimately, any decisions about the competition are the judge’s alone.
Dogs are judged in catalog order. If a handler has a conflict — for example, if a handler is showing two dogs or in two classes or in breed and obedience — the judge decides how to solve the problem. Typically, the judge resolves schedule conflicts by moving a handler to the end of the class or group (that is, by having the stewards tell the handler the revised order). As a steward, you might be approached by a handler who wants to be rescheduled (usually for later in the class) whether as a matter of competition "gamesmanship" or to avoid being next to some particular dog in the group exercises. Stewards can’t change the showing order. Any adjustments or accomodations for conflicts, dealing with latecomers, and so on, are the judge’s decision.
Remember this rule about catalog order when you line up the dogs for the group exercises (sits and downs) in Novice and Open. The dogs line up in catalog order, even if that wasn’t how they did the individual exercises. The dog with the lowest number in the group goes in first. For example, even if dog #3 was judged at the end of the class (because of some conflict or late arrival), the order for the group exercises might be 3, 20, 21, 22…
In conferring with the judge about a handling conflict, latecomers, or other matters, don’t show the catalog to the judge. Judges aren’t allowed to look at the catalog until after their classes are completed and their judge’s books are turned in. Also, in calling or referring to any handlers, use their armband number, not their names.
Scores are confidential until the end of the class. Stewards (and judges, for that matter) can’t disclose any score or partial score or placements until after the class is completed. (After the group exercises in Novice or Open, the judge has to tell the handlers whether they’ve qualified.) Handlers are understandably eager to learn their scores and might ask a steward to sneak a peek at the judge’s worksheet — but that’s a no-no.
Stewards should be courteous and considerate, but don’t play favorites. It’s quite natural to do some silent cheerleading for your friend in Novice A or for the old, white-faced Golden in Graduate Novice or Veterans — that’s fine, but stewards should be impartial, too. It’s a matter of good sportsmanship. Likewise, if there’s a run-off, don’t give anyone advanced notice. In a run-off, the dogs involved will be called back, one at a time.
Stewards help run the show. The best stewards are quietly efficient, just as the best umpires in baseball are "invisible." If there are problems with the ring, gates, jumps, mats, and so on, notify the judge, chief steward, or show chair.
For more information check out the AKC Obedience Regulations, Obedience Judges Guidelines and The Steward in Obedience

Before your class

Report to the chief steward about 30 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, so you can pick up your steward’s badge, a catalog for the ring, and your lunch ticket.
While waiting for your class to start, stroll around the obedience rings to find out where the handlers have set up camp. This will help later on, when you’re rounding up handlers for the group exercises (sits and downs) or a run-off. Find out where the bathrooms and X-pens are, because some nervous handler is bound to ask about them.
Meet with your judge. Some judges give their stewards very detailed instructions; others are more casual. If you’ve never stewarded before, or never stewarded in Open or Utility before, let the judge know. Most judges are very helpful — everyone was a rookie once, so don’t be bashful about asking for help.
Check your ring and make sure everything’s all right — posterboard sign with the correct numbers for the class, clean-up supplies, mats, gates, jumps, and so on. Get the armbands for your class from the chief steward.
Of course, stewards, like exhibitors, should have no food in the ring — check your pockets! Don’t chew gum (some judges consider it food, and so do some dogs). Also, make sure you don’t have any jangling keys or jewelry, a floppy hat (for outdoor shows), or anything else that could distract a dog in the ring.
Ideally, each ring should have three stewards (and, in case of very large classes, four). Very small classes (typically, Utility and most of the non-regular classes) can get by with two stewards. Regardless of the number, the stewards have to work together, efficiently, as a team. Decide beforehand who’ll do which jobs.

Gate Steward and Table Steward

Usually, one steward serves as the gate steward or table steward, performing some clerical chores and other jobs. If you’re shorthanded, you might have to be the gate or table steward as well as being a ring steward.

Armbands
As the handlers check in, give out the armbands and check them off in the catalog. For Open and Utility, as the handlers check in, ask for their dog’s jump height and jot it down in your catalog.
Ring sign
Near the gate, there’s usually a posterboard sign listing the armband numbers for that class. As each handler checks in, put one slash line (/) through her number on the sign. Later, as the handler enters the ring with her dog, put another slash (\) through her number (making an X).
Mark the break
You can also mark on the ring sign when the judge will break for the group exercises (sits and downs) or for lunch — it’s a real convenience for handlers (and it’ll save you from answering the same question from every handler in the class).
Jump heights
For Open and Utility, you can jot the dogs’ jump heights on the ring sign as a convenient reminder for the ring stewards who set up the jumps.
Keep count
Keep count of how many dogs have checked in and entered; judges often rely on the stewards for a reminder about when to break the class for the group exercises (6 to 12 dogs).
Get the next handler ready
As the dog in the ring gets close to the end of the individual exercises, make sure the next dog is ready outside the gate (unless the judge is going to break for the group exercises or for lunch). Don’t let the next dog into the ring until the previous dog has left and the judge is ready. If you don’t see the next handler, call her armband number — not her name — but wait until the dog in the ring finishes working.
Sits and Downs
For the group exercises, help line up the dogs in catalog order.
Worksheets and the judge’s book
Most judges use some kind of worksheets (and then transfer the scores to their judge’s book). Usually, the table steward prepares the worksheets, listing each dog’s number and breed. Likewise, the table steward usually prepares a worksheet for the group exercises, listing the dogs in the group in catalog order. Make sure the judge’s book and worksheets are face-down on the table so no one can peek at the scores.
Arithmetic check
Judges often ask the table steward to double-check their arithmetic, but as a steward, you shouldn’t make any changes to the worksheets — and, of course, only the judge can mark the judge’s book.
Ribbons and prizes
As the class nears completion, you should get the ribbons and prizes (usually from the chief steward or whoever is in charge of trophies).When the judge finishes scoring, check if any handlers are eligible for prizes which may require them to register at the trophy table, such as Highest-Scoring Junior Handler, Highest-Scoring Golden Retriever, etc., High-in-Trial (or -Match), and High Combined (Open B and Utility B).

Ring Stewards — Novice

In the Novice class, ring stewards serve as posts for the Figure–8, an extra set of hands for the judge, and benign sentries in case a dog breaks during the group exercises or runs out of the ring (usually on the Recall) . Most of the non-regular classes — Brace, Graduate Novice, Sub-Novice (also called Pre-Novice), Team, and Veterans — are the same (or nearly the same) as Novice.

When you’re not in the ring, stay close by the gate and be alert for dogs who might bolt. Make sure that the next handler knows she’s next — some Novice A handlers might need a friendly reminder, and some handlers may not be aware of changes in the showing order because of latecomers, absentees, and so on.

Order of Exercises in Novice
1. Heel on Leash
2. Figure–8
3. Stand for Examination
4. Heel Free (off leash)
5. Recall
6. Long Sit (1 minute)
7. Long Down (3 minutes)
Figure–8
Take your position for the Figure–8 without having to be reminded by the judge. Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Heel on Leash. Judges and handlers alike appreciate stewards who are alert and prompt. The posts should be 8’ apart (the judge will usually have marked the positions). Decide beforehand which steward will take which post. Some judges want the stewards to stand with their arms folded to avoid distracting a dog going around the post. Stand still and avoid staring at the dog.
Stand for Examination
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Figure–8. One steward should take the leash from the handler and put it on the ring table. Meanwhile — the other steward usually remains to hold the judge’s clipboard during the Stand for Examination. (Decide beforehand who’ll do which job.) When the judge says "Exercise finished," return the judge’s clipboard and get out of the ring.
After the Recall (end of the individual exercises)
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Recall. One steward should return the leash to the handler — quickly — so she can get her dog back on leash. Some Novice dogs are very hyper or anxious. Handlers appreciate being able to get their dogs back on leash to leave the ring. Give the leash to the handler with the clip up, so she can easily fasten it onto her dog’s collar. Meanwhile — The other steward should make sure that the next dog is ready at the gate (unless the judge is breaking for the group exercises or for lunch). Don’t let the next dog into the ring until the previous dog has left and the judge is ready.
Group exercises (Long Sit & Long Down)
Find out when the judge will break for the group exercises, such as after each ninth or tenth dog, or if the judge is going to break for lunch. It’s a real convenience for handlers if you mark this on the ring sign (and it’ll save you from answering the same question for every handler in the class). Line up the dogs in catalog order. Follow the judge’s instructions on dealing with dogs who break.
At the end of the class
After the last group of dogs has done the Long Sit and Long Down, you can help the judge and table steward in double-checking the judge’s arithmetic and handing out the class prizes and ribbons. Also, be ready to round up any handlers involved in a run-off.

Non-Regular Classes

Sub–Novice (Pre-Novice)
Same as Novice but all the exercises are on-leash (for example, there’s no Heel Free). It’s offered only at matches, not trials. There are usually an A and a B group as in Novice.
Brace, Graduate Novice, Team, and Veterans
Largely the same as Novice. In Graduate Novice, the Figure-8 is off-leash and the group exercises (Long Sit and Long Down) are the same as in Open (see the hints for stewarding in the Open class). There are no A and B groups. In Team (which is rarely offered) there’s a kind of serial Drop on Recall and a rather intricate way of doing the Figure-8 (requiring 5 stewards).
Versatility
Don’t worry — it’s almost never offered because no one can figure out how to do it.

Ring Stewards — Open

In the Open class, ring stewards serve as posts for the Figure–8, handle the leash and dumbbell, set up the jumps, and help with the group exercises (sits and downs). Decide beforehand who’ll do which jobs.

All exercises in Open are off leash and in the group exercises, the handlers leave the ring and go out of sight of the dogs. Decide beforehand which steward will lead the handlers out of the ring and where they’ll "hide."

When you’re not in the ring, stay close by the gate and be alert for dogs who might bolt (yes, even in Open B).

After the last group of dogs has done the group exercises, you can help the judge and table steward in double-checking the judge’s arithmetic and handing out the class prizes and ribbons. Also, be ready to round up any handlers involved in a run-off.

Order of Exercises in Open
1. Heel Free (off leash)
2. Figure–8 (off leash)
3. Drop on Recall
4. Retrieve on the Flat
5. Retrieve Over the Jump
6. Broad Jump
7. Long Sit (3 minutes)
8. Long Down (5 minutes)
Jumps
Set the jumps according to the information from the gate steward or table steward (who notes the dogs’ jump heights when the handlers pick up their armbands). Usually, one steward sets the high jump; the other steward sets the broad jump. (Check each other’s settings.)
For the high jump, put the larger boards toward the bottom. For example, if a dog is jumping 22", put two 8" boards on the bottom, then the 4" board, and the 2" board on top. (This makes it easier for the judge to check that the setting is correct.) Store any unused boards outside the ring.
The broad jump is twice the high jump — for example, if the high jump is 18", the broad jump is 36". Here’s an easy formula for how many boards to use: 3–28–44. That is, use three boards from 28" to 44". Less than 28", use two boards. More than 44", use four boards. Space the boards evenly — without moving the end board.
As the dog enters the ring
One steward should take the leash and dumbbell and put them on the ring table. Don’t hold or play with the dumbbell — many Open dogs are dumbbell-happy and easily enticed or distracted by it. Handle the dumbbell by an end, not the shaft.
Figure–8
Take your position for the Figure–8 without having to be reminded by the judge. Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Heel Free. Judges and handlers alike appreciate stewards who are alert and prompt.
The posts should be 8’ apart (the judge will usually have marked the positions). Decide beforehand which steward will take which post. Some judges want the stewards to stand with their arms folded to avoid distracting a dog going around the post. Stand still and avoid staring at the dog.
Retrieve on the Flat (dumbbell)
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Drop on Recall. One steward should give the dumbbell to the handler, without having to be reminded by the judge. (If you’ve ever shown in Open, you know how much this efficiency is appreciated.). Likewise, be ready to take the dumbbell from the handler as soon as the Retrieve Over the High Jump is finished.
After the Broad Jump (end of the individual exercises)
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" at the end of the Broad Jump. One steward should return the leash to the handler — quickly — so she can get her dog back on leash. Some very hyper dogs might keep jumping all the way out of the ring! Handlers appreciate being able to get their dogs back on leash to leave the ring. Give the leash to the handler with the clip up, so she can easily fasten it onto her dog’s collar. Then —Reset the jumps for the next dog (if any) or move them out of the way for the group exercises. Don’t let the next dog into the ring until the previous dog has left and the judge is ready.
Group exercises (Long Sit & Long Down)
Find out when the judge will break for sits and downs, such as after each ninth or tenth dog or if the judge is going to break for lunch. It’s a real convenience for handlers if you mark this on the ring sign (and it’ll save you from answering the same question from every handler in the class).
Line up the dogs in catalog order. Follow the judge’s instructions on dealing with dogs who break.
One steward should lead the handlers out-of-sight and stay with them until the judge calls them back. Watch carefully for the judge’s signal to return. It’s also very helpful if you can "run interference" for the handlers as they make their way through the crowd, back to the ring.

Ring Stewards — Utility

In the Utility class, the ring stewards set up the jumps and also handle the articles for the Scent Discrimination and the gloves for the Directed Retrieve.

Utility is often a small class (and there are no group exercises), so you may need just two stewards — one places the scent articles, the other places the gloves; one sets up the high jump, the other sets up the bar jump. Decide beforehand who’ll do which jobs. If there are only two stewards, one of you will have to double as the gate steward and get jump heights as the handlers check in for their armbands.

If the class is very large or scheduled later in the morning, find out if the judge will break for lunch. It’s a real convenience for handlers if you mark this on the ring sign (and it’ll save you from answering the same question from every handler in the class).

When you’re not in the ring, stay close by the gate and be alert for dogs who might bolt (yes, even in Utility).

Order of Exercises in Utility
1. Signal Exercise
2. Scent Discrimination (first article)
3. Scent Discrimination (second article)
4. Directed Retrieve ("gloves")
5. Moving Stand and Exam
6. Directed Jumping (first jump)
7. Directed Jumping (second jump)
Jumps
Set the jumps according to the information from the gate steward or table steward (who notes the dogs’ jump heights when the handlers pick up their armbands). Usually, one steward sets the high jump (boards); the other steward sets the bar jump. (Check each other’s settings.)
For the high jump, put the larger boards toward the bottom. For example, if a dog is jumping 22", put two 8" boards on the bottom, then the 4" board, and the 2" board on top. (This makes it easier for the judge to check that the setting is correct.) Store any unused boards outside the ring.
The bar jump is set the same as the high jump.
As the dog enters the ring
One steward should take the leash and articles from the handler and put them on the ring table. Don’t hold or play with the articles — many Utility dogs are ardent retrievers and easily enticed or distracted, and you don’t want to get your scent on the articles yet. When you’re not in the ring, stay close by the gate and be alert for dogs who might bolt (yes, even in Utility B).
Scent Discrimination (scent articles)
The judge selects two scent articles (one leather, one metal) for the handler to use. One steward then places the remaining articles in the ring. Place the articles about 6" apart and about 20’ away from the handler and dog. (Usually, the judge will tell you where to place the articles.) Remember to handle each of the articles as you put them down. (The judge will place the other two articles for the dog to retrieve.)
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" after the dog has retrieved the second article. One steward should gather all the scent articles, put them back in the handler’s carrying case. Make sure the case is locked and put it on the ring table or or near the gate just outside the ring so the handler can pick it up conveniently on her way out of the ring. Meanwhile —
Directed Retrieve(gloves)
The other steward places the three gloves for the Directed Retrieve. Wait until the dog and handler are in position before you put out the gloves. Usually, the judge will have already told you where to drop the gloves. Make sure that the gloves are 3’ from the ring barriers.
When the judge says "Exercise finished" after the dog has retrieved the glove, one steward should gather the gloves and put them with the handler’s scent articles on the ring table. Meanwhile —
Moving Stand and Exam
The other steward usually holds the judge’s clipboard during the Moving Stand and Examination. (The judge will usually tell you where to stand so you’ll be out of the way.)
After the Directed Jumping
Your cue is when the judge says "Exercise finished" after the second jump. Return the leash to the handler — quickly — so she can get her dog back on leash. Some very hyper dogs might keep jumping all the way out of the ring! Handlers appreciate being able to get their dogs back on leash to leave the ring. Give the leash to the handler with the clip up, so she can easily fasten it onto her dog’s collar. As the handler leaves the ring, give her the scent articles case and gloves. Then —
Reset the jumps for the next dog (if any). Don’t let the next dog into the ring until the previous dog has left and the judge is ready.
At the end of the class
After the last dog in the class has been judged, you can help the judge and table steward in double-checking the judge’s arithmetic and handing out the prizes and ribbons. Also, be ready to round up any handlers involved in a run-off.

DOs and DON’Ts for Stewards

If your spouse or other family member is showing a dog in the class where you’re stewarding, tell the judge and the chief steward. You can usually swap with a steward from another ring until that dog has finished working.
NOTE: You shouldn’t steward for a judge if you’re showing your dog under that judge — even in a different class. Make sure that the chief steward knows if you’re showing your dog that day.
As a courtesy, while you’re in the ring, always address the judge formally (Mr., Mrs., etc.) even if you’re otherwise on friendly terms. The dog fancy thrives on such old-fashioned etiquette as well as collegiality.
Call handlers by number, rather than by name — for example, "Open A dog number 201" or "Golden Retriever number 44." Yeah, everybody knows everybody, but this form of address pays homage to a principle of impartiality.
Some judges like to chat with their stewards; others are more taciturn. Bear in mind that judging requires careful concentration. If you have questions about to how to do something — such as how to deal with a dog who breaks in the group exercises — by all means ask. If you have general questions about rules or scoring, or if you have comments about a particular dog, handler, or exercise, hold off your comments until after the class or until lunch.
Likewise, in chatting with handlers: Some handlers may apperciate a friendly, encouraging remark; others may be too nervous or may be trying to focus on the competition. Novice A handlers, of course, may be especially anxious or uncertain. Your courtesy, cheerfulness, and efficiency can help reassure first-timers and veterans alike.
If the hospitality wagon comes by with drinks and snacks for the judges and stewards, remember to keep your refreshments out of the ring. If you need a break — especially during large classes — tell the chief steward.
Stewards needn’t dress formally, but please keep in mind that you’re representing the club and the sport. You should dress neatly — no blue jeans and T-shirts. Wear comfortable, non-skid shoes. Outdoors, if you’re wearing raingear or a jacket, make sure that it doesn’t flap around (especially on the Figure–8).
Bring a leash with you — maybe a lightweight four-footer or one of those noose-style leashes used by vet techs and kennel workers. This can be handy in Novice or Open if a dog breaks in the group exercises or any time there’s a run-away dog.
Stewards aren’t expected to be janitors, but whatever you can do to help keep the show moving, including helping to clean up if a dog has an "accident" in the ring, will be most appreciated. If a dog fouls in or near the ring, call for a clean-up crew or tell the chief steward (who’ll get a clean-up crew for you).
If some spectators (who may not be aware of the rules and customs of obedience competitions) might be distracting to a dog in the ring, ask them politely to move back or to be quiet. For example, watch for children with dripping ice cream cones, breed-ring handlers strewing liver treats, and so on. Try to keep the aisle clear near the ring entrance so handlers have room to warm up their dogs and when they line up for the group exercises in Novice and Open.
Stewards aren’t umpires, but if you notice any problems affecting the competition, tell the judge. However, not all problems are your concern.. For example, if you noticed that a dog has broken a Stay in the group exercises and that the judge missed this (say, the dog lay down and then got back to a sit), there’s probably no point in saying anything. Judges can’t change their scoring based on a steward’s say-so. However, if you think an error was made in the judge’s arithmetic or in identifying a dog — for example, if two handlers’ numbers were confused — notify the judge, chief steward, or show chair.
At the end of the class, stick around and help distribute the ribbons and prizes. Be a good ambassador for the sport: Congratulate the handlers whose dogs qualified or placed; console those whose dogs didn’t qualify. Hold your opinions about the judge or any of the handlers and dogs until you’re well away from the show site.
After the class is completed, always part cordially from the judge — "It was good working with you," etc — even if the judge was a tyrranical slavemaster and the class was a disaster. You might be showing under that judge sometime.

Thanks for stewarding! Here’s hoping you enjoy the show!

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