Facebook 101: How to Promote Your Dog Show Like a Pro
The Dog World Has a Story to Tell. Let’s Tell It.
Dog clubs are run by volunteers. And most of us are not marketing experts. But if your club is holding a show—whether it’s a specialty, match or supported entry—Facebook can be your most powerful tool to get the word out.
Why Facebook? Because it’s where most dog show people already are when it comes to social apps. It’s familiar, easy to use and built around community—which makes it a natural fit for the fancy.
We’ll cover Instagram in a future post. For now, let’s start with the platform that’s already in your pocket and full of exhibitors, breeders and clubs just like yours.
1. Create a Facebook Event Page (Not Just a Post)
This is step one and it’s easy to miss.
Why it matters:
An event page gives people something to “RSVP” to, share with others and set reminders for. You can update it anytime with new details, premium lists, judging panels and more.
Tips:
Use a clear cover photo (your logo, last year’s group photo or the venue)
Make the title easy to search: “2025 XYZ Specialty Show – June 14–15”
Include the date, location, host hotel, superintendent and a link to the premium list
2. Start Early (Earlier Than You Think)
Don’t wait until closing week. Start posting at least 8–10 weeks before your show—even if you only have the date and location confirmed.
That gives people time to plan entries, book hotels and coordinate travel.
As the show gets closer, you can layer in more:
Judging assignments
Premium list release
Closing date reminders
Local dining or hotel tips
Vendor information
3. Keep Your Club Page Active Year-Round
Facebook favors pages that post regularly—not just during show season.
Even a few posts every month help your page stay visible:
Throwback photos from past shows
Member wins or brags
“Save the Date” teasers
Behind-the-scenes prep or club meeting highlights
Staying active makes it easier to gain traction when it’s show time again.
4. Encourage Exhibitors to Tag Your Club
When people post photos from your show, ask them to tag your club’s Facebook page so others can find you easily.
You can add a simple note like:
“Had a great weekend? Tag us so we can see and share your wins!”
This helps extend your reach without needing to post everything yourself and it shows exhibitors that the club is engaged and supportive.
5. Pin the Most Important Info
Want to make sure everyone sees your judging panel, hotel block or specialty schedule?
Pin that post to the top of your club’s Facebook page. It stays front and center no matter what else you post.
6. Share the Load
No one person should run a club page alone.
Assign a second or third admin. Set up a simple content calendar with one or two posts a week. Use photos and templates if it helps.
Consistency beats perfection every time.
You’re Already Doing the Work—Make Sure People See It
Most clubs put a huge amount of time into planning their shows. Facebook is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help all that effort reach more people.
And if your club needs help making outreach easier—not harder—we’re here for that too.
At Show Ring PR™ we help clubs tell their story in ways that build excitement, increase visibility and make exhibitor engagement easier—not harder.