Siegers (in my single experience) are fun. It's causal. Wear running shoes that you can run on grass with. Yes, you will be running.
Don't come into the ring in ripped up jeans - but it is casual - comfortable clothes that you can run in that is weather appropriate.
Don't - wear a skirt you can't bend / run in - wear flip flops - wear things you're not going to want to sweat in - be afraid to get your dogs attention by being silly.
It sometimes helps if you draft someone to 'bait your dog' outside the ring. This is allowable in Sieger shows (No, you can't have a marching band). They'll have your dog's favourite toy or squeaky - trying to get your dogs attention while the judge is critiquing him/her. It shouldn't be too loud or irritating - but enough to get the dogs attention.
DO PRACTICE SHOWING YOUR DOGS BITE! They shouldn't shy away and yes, they'll want to see everything - teeth, bite, gums - everything. So be sure that your dog is:
a) willing to do this
b) willing to do this while some stranger is looking in there
If you're showing on a choke (which most people do), you'll have to show on the dead ring (the one that doesn't slide).
Give yourself lots of room between you and the next person, pass on the inside with lots of space if you have to. You will be told if you're following too closely. They will not tolerate you interfering with another dog.
LISTEN TO THE RING STEWARD!! They're there to help - not mess you up.
It may also help for you to have someone to hand your dog off to to run with - if you get out of breath. It won't be so bad for the puppy people - but for the older dogs - yes, you will be running. A sound dog will retain it's soundness even when tired. A dog with faults will break down and show those faults when tired - and that's a theory they'll be testing.
All in all - Siegers are very fun, casual and you'll hear exactly what the judge is looking for. People are typically more than willing to help (if you offer help back
).
I've only been to one Sieger - but these are typical things to know. Have a great time!