I've only recently got into showing just at companion dog show level but am really enjoying it.  Obviously I don't really know what I'm doing so I started going to a ringcraft class.  The people are friendly enough but there is no instruction or comments on whether I'm doing things right or not.    Everyone else seems to be real 'show' people who know what to do and it's just a case of walking up and down a couple of times, a quick going over of the dog and that's it.

I try to copy other people but how do I know if the person I'm watching is doing things right?

Does anyone know of any other ringcraft classes in the Lowestoft area of East Anglia?  Willing to travel up to 45 minutes each way.

I'm not in your area, so can't help with that I'm afraid.

However, do the people know that you are a first time shower? The ringcraft people I've dealt with usually give a bit of time to newcomers explaining the ins and outs of showing. If you can find someone with the same breed as yourself they could probably teach you more.

Thanks for the reply.  Yes they do know I'm a first timer, although they probably couldn't help but notice  We have different 'judges' each week and some are better than others but nobody gives any feedback.

As for finding somebody with the same breed, in all the companion shows I've been to over the past year I have yet to met anyone else with a papillon.   Toy breeds in general seem to be in the minority.

Try asking for advice and tips.

Unfortantly though so many people set up a ringcraft to give dogs a practise but can't teach themselves so although it's great for experianced people, when a newbie comes along they don't know what to do :(

Thanks.  Will still keep looking for another ringcraft but will give this one another go.  I have actually tried to ask people's advice but didn't really get very far.  It took me a while before I understood what they meant by stacking.  I've kept dogs all my life but this is another ball game entirely. 

Hi

Have sent you a PM with contact details for another ringcraft in your area.

Regards
Joan.

Hi

What about going along to a local open show to meet and introduce yourself to the Papillon exhibitors you meet there.  I know that there are a few Papillon breeders exhibitors in your area that will give some help and advice if you ask.  Or visit the Papillon club website and contact your nearest area rep and see if they can help.

Also try asking the person taking your class each week to comment on how they think you could improve handling your dog, people who take week about at classes like this tend to be other exhibitors and aren't always sure that people want there comments.

Hope this helps.

Regards
Joan