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Dog Shows: Where the dog people go....

© Nancy McMillan

Dog Shows are the best place to meet others interested in purebred dogs. Check with your local club or look for a show near you using the following references Show Dogs West or Canine Reveiw Magazine or Info Dog. All the action is outlined in the catalogue and can be found at the show secretary's table. The judging schedule will dictate which ring you'll want to watch; pick the group of your choice then watch the breeds in action as they are moved around their ring.

You will quickly identify the judge. He or she will be clearly controlling the action in the ring. The breed rapidly moves through puppies, dogs, and bitches to Best of Breed. Here is some guidance on how it all works in the US How to figure points or the Canadian point system CKC Point System. The judge will be selecting the best of each class and finally choosing the animal the demonstrates the best attributes of the breed on that day. Many things go into this conclusion: structure, coat, and movement. Temperament is harder to see but as Maggie will attest, the Terrier judges will some times ask the handlers to face off or spar with one another. This produces interesting results!

As you watch, you will notice certain people seem to be regulars in the ring. No, they don't own incredible numbers of dogs. Generally, these people are professional handlers. Keep your eye on them they are very ring wise will usually demonstrate a variety of techniques to make their charges visually pleasing to the judge.

To talk with owners and breeders I find it best to walk through the grooming area. Here you'll find standing room only and a maze of grooming tables, exercise pens and vari kennels. Most owners and handlers are willing to chat at length about their charges. Do stay clear of the tables where frenzied activity is taking place, though, as this usually indicates a ring appearance coming up faster than anticipated. In most cases all are patiently waiting for their turn. These are the best ambassadors for their respective breeds. Here is a perfect opportunity to discover the qualities of the dog you are thinking of purchasing. Here will be the leads to breeders in your immediate area. Here you will see just what goes into the show grooming of your prospective dog.