FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS


As previously stated, one of the most common mistakes made by exhibitors is to show a dog either before it is ready or when it is in less than perfect condition. Your dog may be an exceptional representative of the breed. However, if he is unable to walk on a lead, will not stand for examination and is not in optimum condition, the judge will have a difficult time evaluating him. The image the dog projects will be a poor one.

Do not fall into the trap of making excuses for your dog - "She just had a season so she is out of coat,""He is confused with obedience training," and the ever-popular "There is more to a dog than grooming and a judge should be able to see through a coat." A judge cannot be expected to see beyond your dog's shortcomings. He sees the total picture and has just over 2 minutes to evaluate it. If your dog is trained he will be easy to evaluate. If he is well presented he will give the impression of quality and have credibility as a show dog.

Dragging your dog around the show ring is one of the quickest ways to ruin him. This is the reason for handling classes. The importance of finding a good class cannot be overstated. The instructor, as well as being adept at showing dogs, must be knowledgeable about the various breeds and able to advise you on presentation and proper etiquette . The class should be small enough to allow for individual attention. If it consists of nothing more than moving the dogs in a circle and down and back, you will learn nothing and your dog will be bored before you ever get to a show. Everything connected with showing should be a pleasant experience. If your dog associates it with having a good time, he will be easier to train and you will never have a problem with his attitude.


The other essential part of presentation is grooming. Whether your dog is smooth or long haired, his coat must be in the peak of condition and oozing with quality like this exquisite Lhasa. Longer coats obviously need more care and must be trimmed in the manner typical of the breed. Some standards, such as the Cavalier, Soft Coated Wheaten and Poodle specify grooming requirements.

CH. Amesen Hot Gossip

The copyright of the article FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS in Dog Breeding is owned by Marilyn Koyanagi. Permission to republish FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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