I'm curious about showing my english bulldogs and possibly finding a trainer or handler to help with this. When our first bully was a puppy I took him to a puppy show here in central Ohio and was quite intimidated. I thought the owners there were crazy with how obsessed they were and 'cut throat'. I would love to have my dogs shown as they show excellent breed characteristics but don't think it's a place I would feel comfortable even trying to fit in. If anyone has any suggestions, encouragement or advice it would be much appreciated.
2007-02-20 13:30:38 · 8 answers · asked by Dani D 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
If you go to akc.org - you can search for AKC clubs in your area. There are 2 main types of clubs - obedience clubs and kennel clubs. You would primarily be looking for a "kennel" club, as these are usually made up of conformation people. While these people are probably not handlers, many groups offer handling classes for you to do it yourself.
Dog shows are extremely competitive and you are right about the "cut throat". It is, however, extremely gratifying to show your own dog, especially if you start doing well. For local shows - I do not think there is anything wrong with a novice handler. Everyone has to start somewhere. Give it a try, you might enjoy yourself.
2007-02-20 13:49:06 · answer #1 · answered by GSDotch 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ha! My first dog show was an eye opener as well! I thought they were the craziest people on earth (and I've shown horses for 35 years and seen it all). So I know what you are talking about.
I can tell you that you won't get real far without a professional handler. You may point at local shows but if you really want your dog to succeed you will need the right handler. And, speak to some of the people showing your breed of dog - truly I have found that most are willing to help you out some - at least until you win over them - then it's all bets are off!
Go to every show, talk to everyone and pay a good handler. Good luck.
2007-02-20 21:37:10 · answer #2 · answered by dressage.rider 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It takes a lot of training to show a dog, for person and dog. A lot of this training is established throughout puppyhood.
The first thing you will want to do is take your current pups to a show (maybe a local or regional show) and have some of the breeders/handlers look at them and tell you if they would make good show dogs (some dogs have the qualities, but lack the personality or showmanship). Many people are snobby indeed, but there are some out there who are helpful!
You can either hire a handler or start off small and join a local group and show your dogs yourself. You may like it more than you think (even if you don't "fit in" you are doing it for your dogs and yourself, not to impress other people with how well you fit in). Either way, it will take training on your part, so it's best you try to get involved as much as you can handle (so you understand as much as possible what will be needed from you).
I was going to show my current Lhasa but his nose lightened to brown around 6 months of age, and this is not acceptable. *shrug* It happens with some parti-colors. He's also way too friendly with strangers because I love showing him off and he loves being doted over; that temperment is another fault. He's the most wonderful dog I could possibly ask for, so it doesn't bother me at all!
2007-02-20 22:18:31 · answer #3 · answered by voodoo-dolly 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The world for showing dogs is a nasty one. I suggest you start off at local shows and then move up in the ranks. This may take a few years so depending on the age of your dog be prepared to have other tell you somewhat negative things. Don't let that stop you. Find a good handler for your breed of dog. Most handlers are very capable of handling any breed but they get snobby too. If you can find a young handler also looking to make his or her mark in the world of handling then go for it.
Good luck with what you want to do and don't let anyone discourage you or tell you you cant make it. Odds are they are worried that you will make it.
I've been there and it's not my cup of tea any more, but I encourage any young person to give it a shot.
2007-02-20 21:54:42 · answer #4 · answered by ♥Golden gal♥ 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The sport of showing dogs IS tough. But if you get involved with a club and meet people, you will have some friends to hang with and learn from. You can also research UKC shows. They are MUCH MORE relaxed and professional handlers are not allowed, so it's not as cut throat.
You definately need the help of someone who shows because it will help you truly evaluate your dog.
Another fun thing is find the Matches that clubs hold, they are "mock" dog shows for practice and puppies, and it won't be as stressful for you.
I am a year into just learning how to show labs...but I got involved with a lab club and kennel club 5 years ago because it's hard to get a really nice dog to show without having the experience of working with a club and knowing people.
2007-02-21 17:10:22 · answer #5 · answered by jkc92618 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have four Champions curled up around my feet right now, so don't let anyone tell you that you can't title your own dog!!
It will however take some time to learn what to do, how to do it, and when to do it.
The first thing you want to do, as someone already suggested, is join an "All Breed Kennel Club" (they will be the ones that host your local point shows)
Now,,, that does not mean pay your dues and never see them again!!! It means participate!!!!
Get to know the people, become friends with them, and one of them will become a mentor and help you.
2007-02-20 22:46:14 · answer #6 · answered by tom l 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should just keep trying. my first collie wasnt the best but i kept at it. now i am one of the better handlers in the smooth collie ring. it just takes time and practice.i am currently at a dogshow right now.
2007-02-24 20:59:18 · answer #7 · answered by collieknutt 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you shouldnt feel intimidated if yiour dogs arent!!!
2007-02-20 21:36:38 · answer #8 · answered by RAIDERS 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋