So you think you might like to show?

 

Showing is a lot of fun, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves dogs. If you decide you would like to start showing, then the first thing you need to do is decide which breed is right for you. You might want to buy AKC’s The Complete Dog Book, which you can get at most major book stores, or at an AKC sanctioned show. Attend a few shows, as well. Take a look at different breeds as they show. Ask the owners and handlers there about breed temperament, genetic problems common in the breed. Ask about care, and what you would need to do to groom the dog for show.

Once you have picked out your breed, try to locate a breed club in your area, and join it. Go to some specialties - find out who is winning and which dogs you like the best. Learn about the proper structure for your breed, and how to judge good movement.

If you are only thinking about showing, here are some things you might want to consider:

PROS

* Showing is fun.

* Showing allows you to meet people all over the country, and you already know you have something in common with them - dogs.

**Showing, and junior handling, can teach your children poise, confidence, good sportsmanship, and proper care and training for their dogs. It is an excellent hobby.

* Showing is a good excuse to travel places (showing often requires little traveling, though), and is, in my opinion, better than camping these days. At a show, people around you are other dog lovers, and I have found most to be helpful and friendly. Showing gives you something fun to do for part of the day, and leaves the rest for exploring the area you are staying in.

* Showing does NOT mean that you have to breed. Today, it is a growing family sport, a way for families to spend time together at something which is fun and safe.  It is becoming more common for  people to show who do not breed.

CONS

 

* Showing can be expensive. If you are showing one or two dogs, however, the cost is in within most people’s range.  Figure that each entry will cost you around twenty dollars, the gas it takes to get it the show, and minor things like a grooming brush, shampoo, nail clippers, leads - things most people would buy for their dogs anyhow.  If you go to a show that is farther away you have many more things to add to your cost - but usually not much more than the average camping trip (if you take a trailer), or mini-vacation (if you stay in a motel).

* Showing takes time. You need attend classes in conformation to learn how to show (it is, at least, recommended, and will save you money in the long run),  and take obedience classes.  Remember - you may not be successful for the first while you show.

* Showing takes a lot of knowledge. You need to learn your breed’s standard, ways of showing, keep track of judges, learn how to groom - and many other things.

* Every time someone wins in the show ring, other people lose - so don’t expect to win every time you walk in.