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I am in the Novice Senior class. This is a class for those who haven't got 3 first places w/competition and are older than 14. I have one win. There are 3 other classes: Novice Junior (10-14) Open Junior (10-14) and Open Senior (14-18) Some things judges look for is: 1. Whether you made an effort to groom yourself and the dog. Did you atleast try to have the dog clean and fresh? Did you try to look business-like and not go in jeans and sneakers? (a big no-no). 2. Is the dog responsive and trained? Did you train the dog to stay put while being examened and to gait on a loose leash. Does the dog pay attention to the handlers commands? This isn't to say if the dog or you make a mistake your going to be last, just put the effort in and get the BETTER results. 3. Over & Underhandling. Both of these sides of the Jr. Showmanship spectrum are no-no's. You want to present your dog in a quiet efficient manner, but do not sit there yakking to your neighbor. Not only is this rude and you will get points taken off, but you are disturbing others who to are trying to show their dogs. 4. Knowledge of ring patterns. Before either dog or human steps into that baby gate, both need to know what is expected of them. This is were conformation classes is helpful. You will be expected to know all of the ring patterns ('L', down and back, 'T', and the triangle.) 5. Do the junior and dog look like they are having fun? Please, juniors is not about winning, it's about having FUN with your dogs and learning how to correctly show your dog as if in the breed ring. But most of all it is for fun. So have fun out there, put a smile, a sincere smile on your face and show that dog!! Never lose confidence in yourself, your dog, or the judge. You can handle, this dog is trained, and the judge knows what he is doing. Some books I've found helpful: Junior Showmanship from hand tolead; Mary Miller (noted sucessful Dalmatian junior handler; now a judge? (I think)) I believe this book is available at Barnes & Nobles (see icon below) for around $10-16. An old book, but none the less VERY useful is The new complete Junior Showmanship Handbook by Marsha Hall Brown and Betheny Hall Mason. 1st published in 1971 and 2nd edition published in 1981. Last but not least, The complete Junior Showmanship Guide by Connie Vancore... gives great tips and the bare bone basics. Runs about $20-$25. A few conformation show books I have found helpful are: Show Me! by ? (someone who shows Salukis) This book is great for junior and handlers alike. Expert or beginner great tips for all! Runs about $10- $13. Well hopefully I'll maybe post show results sometime so check back often! 6/12/99: Maverick and Courtney got back from the Gateway ASCA club show and took home a 1st place and a RESERVE BEST JUNIOR!! Mav beat 1 other in his class and beat 2 for the Reserve win. He took home a bag of Pro Plan dog biscuits and a cool rosette!! Way to go Mav! Maverick is in anoter show on the 24th look for results in a few weeks!! |
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