If anybody could tell me about how to get started in the 'show world' I would much appreciate this.

Looking for a SBT to join our home and it would first and foremost be a loved family pet but I/ We are interested in showing also. Any tips/ do's and donts? x

Join a local ringcraft club first, this will help you with the practicalities of it all

Ringcarft is a must. Go to Open and champion shows and watch everything, the way handlers move your breed, what type of leads, outfits everything, talk to people at shows breeders / handlers. Most of us are friendly - Honest!! ;-)

I found the best help I had when I started showing was from the breeder of my dog and her friends. Make sure when buying your pup, especially because of the breed you're interested in, that the breeder shows.

I've also gone to ringcraft as soon as my pup was allowed out as it's so sad to see people turn up with their dogs at around a year old and quickly give up because they couldn't get the hang of it.

I think I'm right in saying that SBT are table dogs (I'm sure some one will correct me if I'm wrong ;) ) so you will need to get your pup used to standing on a table, they must also get used to having their teeth looked at. I don't teach my dogs to sit,I teach them to stand but that's  my preference.

Hope that helps


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Show season will be starting up in the next couple of weeks so there will be plenty of shows that you can go to, if you plan it right you could get in contact with a breeder and meet them at one of these shows then you will be able to see their dogs against others and how they handle them.

Oh and only buy you pup from a show breeder if that's what your after as there are lots of SBT breeders that arnt that good.

Heres a tip! Always keep some poo bags in your pocket/bumbag just incase.

Relax and have fun!

Thanks very much for everybodys replies, some great advise x

Take your time, don't rush into the first pup/breeder you see.
Check that they show at the level you want to show and don't be fooled by flashy websites.
Look about for a breed forumn and read the showing section