Showing in conformation, also called the "breed
ring", can be lots of fun. It's a great way to connect
with other purebred fanciers, spend fun time with your
pooch, see beautiful specimens of the different breeds
and learning more about a breed you love.
Going into showing with the right attitude might be an
important part of how much you learn to enjoy it. You
won't get rich and you will lose more times than you win!
It is not a money making venture, rather an expensive
hobby. There are some people that make a living showing
dogs, but these are typically professional handlers that
get paid to handle other people's dogs. They have the
experience to be good at handling and travel just about
every weekend to shows.
If you think that you are interested in showing, there
is lots of help for newbies available. Read AKC's
Beginner's Guide to Dog Shows.
A great first step into the world of showing is joining
a local kennel club. You'll find connecting with others
who share your interest is enjoyable and educational.
It's a wonderful way to learn about showing, purebreds
and gain all sorts of useful advice.
There are different types of clubs, focusing on various
aspects of dog sports and even various breeds. For conformation,
find an all-breed club and/or a club specific to your
breed. Find
a club near you.
Once you've joined a club, plan to really get involved.
Attend meetings, volunteer to help at events and ask if
you can assist the club in other ways. Stewarding
at shows is a common need and an excellent way to see
up close how a dog show works!
Are you the kind that likes to learn from a book dedicated
to your new interest? Dogwise
has books for novices about dog shows.
Next:
If
you already have a dog you'd like to show
If
you are in search of a dog to show
AKC's website is full
of information for novices.
Find
a show near you :: How
to count points :: Visit
our Dog Show FAQ
page
Thinking about breeding
your dog? Read Before
You Breed.
