Hello, as a child I used to show rough collies, qualified for the then richmond on several occasions (bitch always lost her coat so never got to go typically) anyhow, now own/breed retrievers (golden and flatcoat) would like to show, am starting ringcraft classes with my male flattie next week, which type of show should i start with and wot class (hes 18 months old) also, any advice on actually showing him would be appreciated, only ever showed one gundog ina swap n a junior class when i was 10! (25 yrs ago) any help greatly received

The first thing to do now would be to go along and watch a dog show. See how the people there show their dogs and just feel the atmosphere. Talk to people at the show (so long as they are not just about to go into the ring ;) ) and see what happens.

Ringcraft is very helpful for people and dogs alike. Especially if you haven't done it before. The people there should be able to help you. Let them know that it's your first time showing your dogs and they should give you some basic help. If you can find someone close to you who show the same breed as you they might be willing to help you.

Now that he is over 18 months old he will have to go into the first available class after Junior. Different breeds have different classifications so you would need to check with a schedule. I would start at Open shows. They are usually closer to home, cheaper and have less people and dogs attending.

hi there, thanx for your help, its a minefield out there. i'll see how we get on with the ringcraft and take it from there. keep you posted

Hi Goldiegirl

Where do you live?  I may be able to get you in touch with some FC people in your area who will help you out.

I think open shows are the way to go, a good place to learn how to show, along with ringcraft.  Some ringcraft clubs don't get that FC's are a free standing breed and will try and get you to stack them, but you'll know about freeing standing from your collie days.

Get to know a few people in your area and they would certainly help you out.  It's easier to find the time to help at an open show, everyone is so busy at the champ shows. :)

As far as which class to enter...your boy will be in Yearling now (12 to 18mths), but not many open shows have this class, so he will need to go into Post Graduate.

Any problems, please feel free to PM me.