Show Handling

Prerequisite: None

The typical "conformation classes" usually involve running in a circle, stopping, and having someone look at your dog’s teeth.  That’s not practicing for what you should be doing in the show ring!  Some skills can pay off big for you!

You should be able to hand-stack your dog.  Your dog should be able to free-stack, shift his center of gravity and remain in the correct frame.  Then there are all the details of baiting, correctly gaiting, and the judge’s exam. Your dog must be in peak physical condition, and the coat should be healthy, of the correct texture, and correctly groomed.

The very best handlers seem to fade from view.  The judge needs to see the dog and go over the dog, both without struggle.  If you want to teach your dog to show in the best way possible, this class is for you.  We will provide some suggestions regarding your handling, but this is not a showmanship class…we are here for your dog.

This is a drop-in class only.  The fee is $25 for 50 minutes.  Handlers with multiple dogs are welcome.