Barb wrote, >I was thinking about showing my new puppy in some shows this spring, >*just >for >the fun of it.* After reading this list recently, I've decided there's > >probably no fun *in it*! >-- Over the past 30 years, I have shown dogs in obedience, schutzhund and conformation. I love to show. For years I couldn't put points on my boxers but had to turn them over to pro's when they were ready to win, but as puppies and adolescents, I showed them myself. I was making it fun for them, honing my skills (finally put points from the Bred-By on my last Ch boxer and won a working group with him) and getting myself known around the ring as a "keeper." Handlers, upon seeing me time and time again, with good dogs, started giving me tips, congratulating me on my wins, etc. I went to handling classes to further learn tricks and tips.
Now I'm showing my first Cavalier. He's only been in 2 shows as a puppy but has taken WD and RWD over competition. He is not trimmed, dyed, whatever. He gets a bath in the morning before a show, gets brushed, combed, etc. and goes in the ring. Handlers have been civilized and gracious towards me - more than I can say for some of the owner-handlers. (VBG) Showing your own dog can be fun - if you have a competitive spirit and like to do things yourself. But it's like any other sport - there are good sports and not so good sports. If one is a good sport oneself, then one will attract other good sports. Be friendly to everyone - watch and learn who you think have the kind of knowledge you need. Stay away, but politely, from the others. Don't let the "win at any cost" competitors deter you from your goals. You'll find them in any competitive endeavor. I love showing my dogs, dog shows, and dog show people. My best friends I have met through dog showing. I have found kind, generous and knowledgable people at dog shows, including exhibitors, breeders and, yes, even handlers! Go for it and enjoy! Susan Jackson Ch Reward's Ropin' the Wind (Windy, 10 yrs young Boxer) Allegria Gambler's Reward (Keno, Cavalier) Sylmar, CA [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://sujac.home.mindspring.com _________________________________________________________________ Join the world�s largest e-mail service with MSN Hotmail. http://www.hotmail.com ========================================================= "Magic Commands": to stop receiving mail for awhile, click here and send the email: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20NOMAIL to start it up gain click here: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?body=SET%20CKCS-L%20MAIL E-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] for assistance. Search the Archives... http://apple.ease.lsoft.com/archives/ckcs-l.html All e-mail sent through CKCS-L is Copyright 2002 by its original author.
