
You must be mad, GG, think of the slobber! :D ;)
Who are you getting your Dane from, and what colour? (PM me this if you like, might be a problem to post on the board?)
Yes, best thing to do is get yourself along to a ringcraft class, both for you and your pup. Will get you some advice, and you'll also get to know a few friendly faces prior to the first nerve-wracking show.
M.