I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice about showing my shih tzu.He is 9 weeks old.I've never had a show dog before and don't really know where to start.Any advice?
                                                                                                            Thanks,Zoey

I would find out the location of your nearest Ringcraft classes (from the KC) and also join the breed club.

At classes you should be able to find out how to show a table dog, and the breed club shopuld be able to give you breed specific tips, especialy about grooming and hair styling for show.

It is important to start training her to stand o9n a table at home.  Use Rubber Bath mat or Car mat to ensure good traction.  Stand the puppy up with it foresqyare.  That isd with front feet level with each other a comfortable distance apart, and back paws should have the rear pastern (the bit from heel to toe) perpedicular to the table, so neither to far under the body or to far behind.

When you have pup stood ecncourage it to look at you using silly talk or a treat and command 'stand' 'stay'.  Then gently feel over the neck and shoulderts, along the body down the legs and if a boy feel for the testicles very gently.  Look at the pups teeth.  I find the least frightening way is to put you hand under the bottom jaw, and raise the lips either side of the top jaw with the finger and thumb of that hand.  Say 'teeth' in a jolly voice and really praise if they allow you to do it.

I find a really good way, & I found it priceless is going to some shows look at the way they are handled etc & talk to some people. Most people I found have been helpful but make sure their not about to go into the ring.
Also go to ringcraft they tend to do puppy socialising, & ringcraft training, which you can start going to once shes had her injections. Also there are loads of books on the subject. Not only the standing of the dog but presentation is a key part as well. Bathing, grooming. Lots to learn.
Which area do you live?
Diane