AKC shows are 6 months old, but there are puppy matches also that allow you to take them in the ring as early as 3 months. It is a great way to practice before going into the "big" ring. When I started, I called the local dog clubs and asked about conformation classes. Eventually I found several to help me learn how to handle the dog and also train the dog for the show experience.
Visit shows and watch what happens, watch the grooming before the show and see what judges ask the people to do. After the show, most people are willing to talk to you if you have questions. You can check for shows in your state by going to infodog.com. There are lots of other places to look on line, but this will get you started locating shows to visit.
Read the Yorkie AKC standard and learn what is correct conformation, coat, attitude, etc. You have to know the good and the bad about your own dog. If your breeder doesn't show, perhaps they know someone who does that you can talk to. Finding a mentor for this process can be the best thing you can do. It sure helped me get started, and she is one of the first people I talk to when I have a question (thank you Bonnie).
I also recommend a book called, "Tricks of the Trade. From Best Intentions to Best in Show." by Pat Hastings. You can get it on line and it is full of good information about showing as a beginner and evaluating your dog.
There is a fun on line Yorkie magazine called, E Yorkshire Terriers. There are beautiful, beautiful dogs in it every month and you can learn a lot about yorkies just looking at the pictures. You can also learn what you like, because all yorkies don't look alike even when they are correct with the standard. The YTCA Roving Specialty that was just held in Memphis (look in the show section of this forum) sells videos of the big shows, and you can see a free preview of some of the show on line. Watch the dogs move and stack, watch their coats and ears and what the handlers do to show them off for the judge.
There is a lot to it, more than you might imagine, but it is fun, fun, fun. And that is just what it should be for you and your dog. Good luck!
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LaVail Yorkshire Terriers |