Technically it’s called ‘bait’ – the food or object that is used to get a dog’s attention and encourage them to be alert in the show ring so that the judge can see the dog’s expression.  Bait can be liver, cooked chicken, cheese or a hot dog.  Some handlers keep the bait in their own mouth.  Others put it in their pocket or a bait bag that can be clipped onto their belt.  No matter what it is or where it’s kept, the dogs seem to love and respond to it.  In this photo a junior handler is showing her Whippet a treat before going into the show ring.  Do you think the dog was given the treat or do you think it was just a tease?