For those with experience in showing - how much training or ringcraft would a pup need before he is ready for showing ??
Do you think ringcraft once a month ( aside from regular training of course ) is too little ?
And would you recommend breed specific ringcraft or mixed breed?
would this make any difference
Lel

Hi
I took my older boy to ring craft nearly every week from the time he was old enough to go out till he was 6 months old.He had his first champ show at 6 months and 2 days-he showed like a robot-never put a foot wrong but there was no sparkle at all.He now goes once ever now and again and shows like a dream.
My puppy been to ring craft once a month and although he's far from perfect he enjoys the ring and is doing well.
I think most judges will excuse a puppy for not being foot perfect and would prefer to see a pup with a bit of life.
What I suppose I'm saying is that I found too often did my dog no good at all and although my youngster is not as well trained as the older one I know it will come in time-after all he IS only a baby.
Above all make it FUN
Regards Archer.

id say it depends on the pups temperament and your capabilities as to how much or little you do-id strongly advise mixed classes, gets them used to all sorts of different breeds, good luck

his "normal" training classes are mixed breed ( limited to 6 dogs only) but his handling/ringcraft is Staffy only .
The people that run the class seem very nice but as its only once a month it made me ponder whether it was often enough .
Lel

Its funny how many people have dogs over trained for showing and they get sickened off with it.
I find that everything with a dog especially a young one should be as enjoyable for both of you.
When Im judging I like a puppy to look like a puppy not a minature adult, ok I dont like them jumping up but I am quite happy to take time with puppies.
I have Ned at his first show tommorow he has only been to ringcraft three times so I will probably make a complete idiot of myself :) but either way he will enjoy himself.
think the trick is to get as many people to handle (go over) your pup so he is used to a stranger approaching him,an of course they have to let the judge see their teeth so it helps if everyone doesnt end up rolling all over the floor ;) ;)