I need advice..please help

[feminvstr]

"Junior Handling is a skill not dissimilar to dressage in horses, in Junior handling it is not the conformation working quality or sporting ability of the dogs that is assessed but the skill, refinement, harmony and precision with which the young people handling the dogs execute complex patterns whilst maintaining rapport and a sympathetic relationship with their canine partners. It is unquestionably a fact that these skills transfer seamlessly to the show ring often making the youngest handlers the most skilled and Proficient at the highest level of showing."

[feminvstr]

this is interesting breakdown for you

Who can be a junior handler?
You can, if you have a purebred dog and a desire to work with the dog as a smooth team. If you want to work in 4-H competition, you don't need a purebred dog -- you can participate with a mixed breed.

Junior handlers must work hard with their pets. Daily training is necessary to prepare for a top performance, just as it is in any sport. Some juniors enjoy handling so much that they become skilled enough to show dogs for other owners. A few even make handling a profession and travel with clients' dogs to shows throughout the country.

The purpose of a dog show is to present top quality dogs to the judge and to work towards championship points for the best dogs in a kennel. Dogs must earn 15 points to become a champion, and two of those wins must be “major” victories of three-to-five points. When competition is intense between several very nice dogs, the skill of the handler often makes the difference between a major win and a pointless second place ribbon.

A successful handler prepares the dog well for the ring, keeps the dog perky throughout the judging, has the dog under control at all times, and obviously enjoys the relationship with this wonderful animal.

Selection of a dog to handle
It is important to select a dog that fits your personality, appearance, available time, and family circumstances. If you have no time or energy to groom a long-haired dog, don't get a long-coated breed for your show dog — even if your parents breed long-coated dogs. If you don't have the time or energy to exercise a very active dog, don't get a very active dog — even if you can easily get a one from a relative or friend.

If you are petite, don't go for a giant breed, and if you are big-boned or tall and lanky, don't get a small breed. Judges look at teamwork, and it's easier to look like a team if you are evenly matched in size.


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Training
Once you get your chosen pup home, you can begin his training by handling him all over — look at his teeth, feel his toes, rub his ears, put your hands all over his body. A pup that is accustomed at an early age to such handling is more relaxed in the ring.

Then teach the pup to walk on a leash. Never drag him anywhere; coax him to come along with you by softly calling his name, squeaking a toy, or enticing him with a soft treat such a bit of cheddar cheese or cooked chicken.

When he walks nicely on a leash, take him places to get used to noises and commotion. Always let your pup know how happy you are to be with him. Don't yank him or yell at him when he does something wrong, just show him what you want him to do until he understands -- even if it takes months of practice.

Teach him to stand still and to allow you to place his legs in proper position. Most dogs look best when standing with all four legs straight underneath their bodies. Your pup must learn to let you place his legs in proper position so he looks his best when the judge examines him.

Getting ready
Puppies must be six months old to enter a dog show, so you have plenty of time to get ready. The best place to learn about exhibiting as a junior handler is to attend a training session with an experienced handler or instructor. Many clubs have conformation classes for show dogs and some have special sessions for junior handlers along with a regular conformation class.

In such a class you will learn the gaiting patterns for judging, the best method of standing (or stacking) your dog for examination, and the smooth moves necessary to prevent blocking the judge's view of your dog. You'll also learn what type of show leash works best for your dog and how you should dress for competition.

If you want to know more about junior handling, there are several books available at the library, including Junior Showmanship from Hand to Lead by Mary Miller. If you want information about 4-H showmanship clubs, call the 4-H agent at the Cooperative Extension Service in your county.

Norma Bennett Woolf

[Mardelin]

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[Mardelin]

Originally Posted by Mardelin

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Don't know where my answer went....but, Kim is right...what it boils down to is that the Junior handler is judged on their ability to handle the dog....so, it is best to go in with a somewhat trained dog.

[feminvstr]

The following information is published by the American Kennel Club (AKC)
Getting Started in Junior Showmanship

The American Kennel Club licenses dogs shows (competitive exhibitions in which dogs are judged in accordance with an established standard of perfection for each breed) that test and evaluate the form and function of purebred dogs. In addition, at some shows the AKC offers classes which evaluate the abilities of the participant on the other end of the lead, the young handler.

AKC Junior Showmanship classes offer youngsters the opportunity to:
1. Develop their handling skills

2. Learn about good sportsmanship

3. Learn about dogs and dog shows.
Join the world of AKC Junior Showmanship!

Juniors are important to the future of the sport of dogs and responsible dog ownership, and the more they learn, the more valuable they become. The values, attitudes and responsibility learned through Junior Showmanship will serve youngsters well throughout their lives. By putting time and effort into learning about their dog and how to present it, juniors are rewarded with a win.

Who may participate

Junior Showmanship classes are open to children from 9 to 18 years old and are divided into Novice and Open classes: All participants in Junior Showmanship classes must have an AKC Junior Showmanship Handler Number. Novice classes are for those children who, at the time entries close, have not won three (3) first-place awards in a Novice class at a licensed or member show. To qualify as a win, more than one child must be in competition in a class. The Novice class gives those children who are beginners a chance to gain experience and confidence apart from the more seasoned youngsters. Open classes are for those children having three or more first-place wins; these are the more experienced Junior Handlers. A beginner can learn how to present their dog more effectively by watching these talented youngsters in the ring.
The classes may further be divided into:

Junior: At least 9 years old but under 12 years old on the day of the show.
Intermediate: At least 12 years old but under 15 years old on the day of the show.
Senior: At least 15 years old but under 18 years old on the day of the show.

Judging criteria

Juniors are judged on their ability to present, or handle, their dogs within the same formats and guidelines as those who compete in the breed ring. The quality of their presentation, not the dog, is judged. Juniors are encouraged to develop their handling abilities, dress appropriately, conduct themselves in a proper manner, and present their dog in a well-groomed condition.

What about the dog?

Any dog entered must be eligible to compete in dog shows or obedience trials. The dog must be owned by the child, a member of the child's family or member of his household. Many times junior showmanship classes are free (if the dog is entered in regular classes) or are offered at the reduced rate.

How to get started

The best way for prospective junior handlers to see what is involved in junior handling is to watch the Junior Showmanship classes at a dog show. They will see how children take part at all levels of competition, how they have developed friendships and have learned to compete and accept their wins and losses in a gracious manner. Talk to these young participants in our sport. You will be impressed by their knowledge, attitudes and their willingness to share their experiences with someone new to the sport. Another way to learn the basics is at your local dog club. Many clubs offer weekly handling classes. These informal sessions are conducted in a relaxed atmosphere and afford both dog and handler an opportunity to practice in a setting similar to an actual show.

In order to receive Premium Lists (which detail date, location and judges of all classes at a particular show) for shows in your area, visit the Superintendent's office at any show. Or subscribe to the AKC Gazette and you will receive, as a part of your subscription, the Events Calendar, a monthly supplement which lists all the AKC events held throughout the country.
Learn More About Junior Handling
Great Books To Get You Started
Junior Handling: The Complete Guide on How to Show Your Dog
by Felix Cosme



Preparation and Presentation of the Show Dog: The Complete Handling Guide
by Jeff Brucker, Betty Brucker



Show Me!
by D. Caroline Coile Ph.D.


Amazon Price: $10.39 (as of 10/03/2007)


Raising a Champion: A Beginner's Guide to Showing Dogs
by A. Meredith John; Carole L. Richards


Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 10/03/2007)


New Secrets of Successful Show Dog Handling
by Peter Green, Mario Migliorini


Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 10/03/2007)

[YorkieRose]

I would not OB train a show potential until after finishing.
I know there are lots of opinions on this..but I don't think a novice can do much damage IF they take handling classes and work with other dog people.
You can learn the correct way to groom from books and talking to YT people as what to do and what not to do...
IF this puppy is not expensive and you want to use him as a learning tool...the worse that could happen is he will wind up a pet.

[Mardelin]

I agree with you 100% Pat. However, having a high price pet for this young lady is not an option that her parents will allow...

[AMD]

My mom didn't go for the summer assistant idea (at all). She said "that's not ever going to happen". I was like, OK there's no convincing here...I'm going to have to find somebody here in Colorado, that I can assist. She actually said to me that I could do it, if they lived here.
She wasn't against the idea of learning from a professional, but rather me going away for an entire summer with somebody she didn't know. She told me she was "all for" me learning from somebody, and being an assistant, but she's not going to let me go to Florida for a summer.


In Jr, a pup can "not turn out" for the ring, right? since the judging is based on the ability to handle? So do I want to get this pup for Junior Handling? Would I still want to wait past 12wks (6mo) to make a desition about him??

Thank you ALL for your help. It's so helpful to me, and I appriciate it soo much!

[Mardelin]

Originally Posted by AMD

My mom didn't go for the summer assistant idea (at all). She said "that's not ever going to happen". I was like, OK there's no convincing here...I'm going to have to find somebody here in Colorado, that I can assist. She actually said to me that I could do it, if they lived here.
She wasn't against the idea of learning from a professional, but rather me going away for an entire summer with somebody she didn't know. She told me she was "all for" me learning from somebody, and being an assistant, but she's not going to let me go to Florida for a summer.


In Jr, a pup can "not turn out" for the ring, right? since the judging is based on the ability to handle? So do I want to get this pup for Junior Handling? Would I still want to wait past 12wks (6mo) to make a desition about him??

Thank you ALL for your help. It's so helpful to me, and I appriciate it soo much!

Whether you find a handler in Colorado....you'll still have to travel....

Yes, for a show dog it would be wise to wait until the pup is at least 6 months.

[AMD]

Originally Posted by Mardelin

Whether you find a handler in Colorado....you'll still have to travel....

Yes, for a show dog it would be wise to wait until the pup is at least 6 months.

I realize that, but I guess it makes her more comfortable if they live here. whatever

Mary, if you don't mind..can you give me your opinion about his pedigree, please??

She lives in Holbrook Arizona, and we usually visit my grandparents for Christmas, who live in Tempe/Phoenix. I will probably be able to see him then, so he'll be about 18wks.

[AMD]

RosiesBoy.JPG

[Mardelin]

Originally Posted by AMD

Attachment 157334

Took a look at the pedigree....not familiar with the Gold Dust dogs....however, the pedigree is very nice.....lots of red in it.....

Remember pick your breeder first (feel comfortable with the relationship) before you pick the dog.

[AMD]

Originally Posted by Mardelin

Took a look at the pedigree....not familiar with the Gold Dust dogs....however, the pedigree is very nice.....lots of red in it.....

Remember pick your breeder first (feel comfortable with the relationship) before you pick the dog.

I have felt very comfortable with Kathy. The reason I found her is because someone here bought a pet from her, and another a show pup that she finished. I love the Durrer dogs, and that's the line I wanted to have. I contacted her and she has been very nice to work with.

[Mardelin]

Originally Posted by AMD

I have felt very comfortable with Kathy. The reason I found her is because someone here bought a pet from her, and another a show pup that she finished. I love the Durrer dogs, and that's the line I wanted to have. I contacted her and she has been very nice to work with.

Great! Then there's your mentor....you are not only buying a dog but, a mentor....a bit long distance....but, she would be the one that could help you......

Yes, lots of wonderful lines in that pedigree......very unbroken.

[AMD]

OK Mary, next question..

What food do you suggest feeding? There are some that say some foods have too high protein levels for Yorkies, but I don't know where that line is. THX