We have two pet newfoundlands aged 17 mths. My son aged 15 has expressed an interest in showing his newf. I confess I have been discouraging him as I have never been keen and dont know the first thing about showing. But he is persistant! Is there a Ringcraft in Milton Keynes, does anyone know? I guess thats how he would start? The breeder doesnt show and she lives the other side of England to us so I dont think asking them would be any use. Thanks for any advice.

Hi,
Yes your best bet is to go to a ringcraft club first to see how you like it!
Then get hold of a dog paper...dog world or Our Dogs and try a day out at a companion dog show!!
This is always a good starting point!You'll either love it or hate it!!

Mel

Hi
if your son is keen why not let him give it a go.As the other poster says buy a dog world or our dogs paper or try the diary on www.dogshowreview.co.uk and either go and participate in a companion dog show or go along and spectate at a open or champ show which will give you more of a feel of what its really all about.At a champ show you will be able to see how Newfs are shown and speak to some Newf owners.
Don't worry if the handlers make it all look too easy-everyone starts somewhere!My 9 year old daughter does young handler classes and is keen to 'take over the reins' in the breed ring.
Can't help you with the ring craft -wrong part of the country for me but try asking at your local vets.
Regards Archer

Hiya,

Companion dog shows (the new name for exemption shows) are a good place to start. You'll find them advertised in your local papers, vets, and in shop windows. They have about 4 pedigree classes, and the rest are fun classes like waggiest tail etc, so, it's a great place to start with pedigree dogs....just to get them used to being in the ring.

It's great that your son is so interested in the dogs...not a lot of young lads are!! Try to encourage him.

If you do a search on champdogs, you may be able to find ringcraft classes in your area....if not, they'll be advertised in local papers.

Definitely let him go fo it!!!!!

Good luck, and take care

Lisa

I was wondering, do they have shows for non-pedigree dogs??

Yes-companion dog shows are for any dog,registered or not.They have classes for best sporting,best non sporting etc and fun classes such as dog with the waggiest tail and most handsome dog etc
Archer

Thanks for your replies, they were very helpful. I had better start brushing!