Hi,

We have a 5 month old Golden Retriever and I am thinking about showing him. The biggest problem is that I can't drive(in process of learning), so I can't get to ringcraft classes with him. Is it possible to teach a dog yourself from a book, internet etc?

Thanks

Hi

You can't beat ringcraft, they show you how to stack and correct you.  Mine also help you get the best out of your dog from watching it move.  open shows are cheap enough to practice at and watch others.  Other exhibiter are usually a little friendlier with some guidance.  Don't ask me why.  Champ shows can be a little more 'stiff' not always.

You can get the basics but nothing like the real thing and correcting before it becomes a habit.

Hope that helps. 

If you can make it to Crufts, people will offer lots of help and advice.

We are going to Crufts on Thursday. I am so looking forward to it! I'm hoping I will be able to get to talk to some other golden retriever owners there.

i love watching the Goldies.  They're usually on the same day as use but not this year.  I hope they still have the display team though.  Take lots of money for the stalls lol and your own drinks unless you don't mind paying over £2.oo for a £1 bottle.  Food is also expensive.  I guess it does add to the day.

I am expecting to buy Gresley(our goldie) quite a few new toys. He is quite spoilt

Can you not phone the local ringcraft and ask if there's anyone who can help you with a lift on ringcraft nights? At least until you pass your test. I used to collect someone on my way in cos they didn't have a car.

Does Gresley's breeder show. If so they may be able to put you in touch with someone local who could help you. Alternatively when you get to Crufts buy a catalogue and look up Lynn Kipps and have a chat with her (make sure you don't catch her just before she is due to go int he ring though). She could know someone in your area.

Yes Gresley's breeder does show. Im hoping they are there thursday so we can go say hello.

I was going to email her to see if she could help but they live quite far away but I'll contact them

Hi,

If you put on here where you live then someone on here maybe able to offer you a lift or know of someone who can too.
Always worth a try :-)

I'm sure she wouldn't mind you phoning or emailing anyway just for tips and ideas.  She's have a good idea how her line conduct themselves in the ring and I'm sure she'd love to see her breeding in there.

>Yes Gresley's breeder does show

Did you buy Gresley for show?  If so I'd have thought that help from your breeder would be forthcoming no matter the distance.  Also, some breeders have really good networks and she/he might be able to put you in touch with someone more local to you for some 1:1 help.

Good luck :)

No we didn't buy with the intention of showing him, but it was always at the back of my mind as something I would like to try.