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Originally Posted by gemy  Not so because handlers on average would show more dogs in any given day of competition then your average owner/handler. So at any given show there are likely to be at least 2-3 times as many owner/handlers, then pros showing the dog.
What I get from this chart is that once you get to group level handlers avg wins goes up markedly. I wonder if that is a self fulfilling prophecy. Common knowledge in show world, that unless you are a very experienced exhibitor best to hand off your dog to a pro for the group. |
Gail,
It's very dependent on what your goal is in showing your dog. Are you showing the dog to gain approval of it's worthiness; are you attempting to put Breed Points on him to the top standings; or is your goal, group wins and BIS wins.
There are all kinds of records to beat. However, I've seen Breeder/Owner/Handled dogs make it to #1. No one is arguing that Professional Handlers have a bit more clout in the Showing Arena, they travel all over the country/world, it's their business. My preference is to handle my own dog, to me it's a bit more satisfying and at times a bit more expensive. Would I hesitate to send my dog to a handler? Only if I was physically unable to handle my own dog and then I would only send them the best.