
Hi Jo,
If I were you (and this is the way I did it) I'd start at exemption/companion shows. They're a lot of fun, and everybody is there to enjoy themselves.
Sometimes, breeders take their young dogs to these shows to give them ring experience.....it's not serious. Dogs don't need to be kc reg'd.
We moved on to open shows...which are not as serious as champ shows, but can get quite competitive! For these, your dog needs to be registered, and you'll pay a small entry fee....usually a few pounds.
The best thing to do is get a subscription to one of the dog papers, for companion/open and champ shows. A lot of companion shows will be advertised in local papers/shop windows/etc.
The main thing to remember is...Have fun! That's what it's all about. At the end of the day, you always come home with the best dog..whether you win or lose. As long as you and the dog enjoy yourselves, that's all that matters.
Go for it. Best of luck,
Lisa