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Originally Posted by Brooklynn  I was lucky in getting my first show dog. I learned alot on my own and even took a "pet" in the ring just to learn how. I am so lucky to have found my mentors the way I did. I attented several dog shows and knew I was hooked!! I was very lucky with getting great mentors. Also, being involved with horses helped alot!! I sort of lucked out without having to travel with anyone before I got my show dogs. But I will say do your homework and get with a great mentor and learn all you can because learning is just as much fun as participating in the ring. The love of the breed should consume all those that are involved with either having just a pet or the show dog  Learn all you can and have fun!!
Donna Bird
Brooklynn's Yorkshire Terriers |
I can relate to so much you said here. I too learned alot on my own and just went for it one day. I'll never forget it. I was hooked from then on and haven't stop soaking in as much knowledge as I can possibly get ever since.
I've had alot of fun showing and meeting people who share my interests. I also have two great mentors, one who guides me, encourages me, keeps me focused.. and one who teaches me the physical aspects (handling)
The first time I stepped into a show ring I did not even know how to do a topknot. Good thing I took a puppy that day,
So far, other than the dogs I've handled for other's, the only dogs that I personally own that I have shown were bred by me. Our new yorkie is the first time I've owned and shown a dog that I didn't breed and that does add more pressure because all you can think is not letting that person down and making them proud with their decision to place with you. I'm very thankful to have the experiences of the actual shows under my belt so that now days I can focus on my dog and not "what am I supposed to do now". Any of you other newbies will certainly relate to what I mean.