Getting Started
Getting Started Showing Your Dog
Congratulations! You have purchased an AKC registered purebred dog, an addition to your
family that has brought a new dimension to your life. But aside from being your best friend, he is
quite a handsome animal. You've attended dog shows and it looks like something you and your
dog would both enjoy. If you'd like to give it a try here's what to do.
Who can participate
Any dog registered with the American Kennel Club that is six months or older on the day of the
show, and of a breed for which classes are offered in the premium list is eligible to be entered at
a dog show. Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog
show.
What you can do
If you've attended a dog show, you've already taken an important step in getting involved in the
sport of showing your dog. If you haven't yet attended a show make an effort to do so. Dog
shows are advertised in local newspapers, on posters in local merchants' shops and on radio and
television. Many times a phone number is given that you may call to get more information on the
time your breed will be judged. But if possible, plan to spend the day and watch not only your
breed's judging, but others as well. You'll find attending a dog show to be a great way to spend
a day.
If you are having trouble finding out when and where shows are held in your area, you may wish
to subscribe to the American Kennel Club Gazette. The AKC Gazette is the banner
publication of the American Kennel Club, and in addition to all the interesting and informative
articles in the Gazette, your subscription price includes the Events Calendar, a monthly
supplement listing all the AKC events held throughout the country.
Learning to show your dog
While visiting the show, inquire at the club table or club tent about breed handling (or
conformation handling) classes sponsored by the club. The classes are usually held on week
nights and will teach you the basics of handling your dog. It would also be to your benefit to ask
how you may go about joining the club as you are new to the sport and would like to get
involved. Dog clubs are involved in many activities besides putting on a dog show, and all
welcome new members who want to lend a hand. You'll meet new people and share their
knowledge and experiences. The club may also have information about match shows in your
area. These are fun shows that are used for practice and training of both dogs and novice
exhibitors. While these shows award no points toward an AKC title, they are a great place to
"get your feet wet" before entering a real show.
Hiring a professional
If you don't wish to handle your dog yourself, you may contact a professional handler to show
your dog. Professional handlers charge a fee for showing dogs, so before hiring a handler make
sure you obtain a schedule of his fee. Talk to several handlers, get copies of their rate schedules
and visit their facilities. Observe them both in and out of the ring before making up you mind
which handler to choose. You will be entrusting them with your dog's care, so make sure you
are entirely comfortable before doing so. If there is something you don't understand, make sure
the prospective handler answers all of your questions before entering into any agreement.
So now you're on your way. You are entering a sport that will bring many hours of enjoyment
and education to every member of your family. You will make many friends in the sport, and
will enjoy your dog and your new hobby to the fullest extent. Good luck!
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