[topknot]

Yes - trim feet a little - I place them on the table and where the hair touches the table, around the toenails, I cut so you make a rounded shape - around the foot. I also give them little treats as pups - so they learn that this is a good experience. I also trim under the feet - so their pads will make contact with the floor. It makes it easier for them to grab the floor as they walk in the ring. As a pup though - only do what they will allow you to do - you do not want them to hate it.

Also if inside show - practice walking on mats, even if bait is on the floor. Many of the people will drop bait in the ring and then you come by with your dog and oops there goes the head goes - down. So you have to practice with your dog to try and ignore this bait and smells. You can talk to them in the ring (I never call them by name though). This helps them to concentrate on you.
If outside show - practice walking in grass. This way they will be use to the texture and will walk better for you when the time comes in the ring. And with grass they love to either eat the grass or smell what is in the grass. So you have to teach them to hold their head head while in the ring and not nose in the grass or on the floor.

Pat is right - just have fun and make it fun for your puppy. Most judges do not want you to be too strict with puppies. Puppies need to learn that showing can and is fun.

T.