I have a 5 month Old English Sheepdog bitch. I am toying with the idea of showing her but as I have no experience of this I don't really know where to start.
I have spoken to my breeder but she doesn't shoe her dogs. The local breed club holds shows but does not do any training classes. I went along to a local ring craf class but they have no experience with this breed. I suppose what I am really looking for is someone to tell me whether she owuld be any good or not. Is the best thing just to enter her and see how we get on? I do feel a bit put off by stories that you read about experienced handlers not liking newcomers, is this true?

Hi
the KC may be able to put you in touch with a breed specific ringcraft which you may find of more use to you .
Try going to some shows and that way you get to see whats involved, get a feel for the atmosphere etc and also hopefully get to meet people .
We are hoping to show our 5 month pup soon and thats what we did . Found a Staffy only ringcraft and visited some shows and we are meeting more people who offer all sorts of advice although luckily we also have his breeder to help out with advice too
Good luck
Lel
By th eway not all experienced handlers are like that . most of the ones i have met are only to happy to share their experiences and help you out ( mind you we havent actually shown yet !!)

Hi,

Unfortunately I can't be of any help with ringcraft etc.

I just wanted to say, I've just started showing, and everybody I have met so far has been really friendly and helpful.
So don't worry about that....I think the main thing, if you decide to show, is to just enjoy yourself.

have fun...and good luck!!

Lisa

HI, I have also started ringcraft classes and I think the people running it are more experienced with smaller toy varieties than my doberman. However I am still attending as Sydney is getting used to sitting around doing nothing and ignoring the other puppies, and then being handled by other people in a manner that he needs to become accustomed to when touched by judges.
I agree that any experienced handler @ the shows should give you some tips. Shame the breeder doesnt show. Good luck and enjoy.

I found it most daunting when I first started but soon got into the swing of things, people are generally kind hearted and helpful. That was 12 years ago and I still find myself acting like a novice the minute I walk into the ring:D

Lots of luck and remember to keep it fun for you and the dog.

Caron

I would still take her to the ring craft and get her used to being gone over and standing with all the other dogs around. It's good experience for her, even if people can't give you OES specific pointers.

Wendy