Hi There,

I've got a 16 week old Cocker Spaniel called Homer. He's a lovely dog with luckily a lovely temperament. We never bought him to show- but since having him, we've had so many people comment on him, that we are thinking about entering him competitions. I know he can't enter some till he's fully grown- but I was just wondering how we would go about this? I've tried to get him into training classes,
but have had problems as most seem to be run in the day and as me and my partner work full time- this would be unfeasable (My mom looks after Homer in the day). Would it be best to go to training classes and progress from there? Also does anyone know of any good training places in the Birmingham area?

Many Thanks

Claire

Hi Claire,
Hve you looked for your local APDT class? Look at the link and click on your area. I've found that most classes are held in the evenings as they realise that people are busy during the day! For learning to show him you need a "ringcraft" class - the APDT trainer may know of one local to you, or the KC should have a list of them.
Good luck.
:)
Edit: PS - typical! The page is down at the moment! Claire - search google for APDT!

Hi,
You could also try this link for a local trainer.

What sort of competition are you wanting to do, if it is Showing then ringcraft classes would be what you want although I always do a puppy obediance class first or as well.

All the ringcraft/handling classes by me are at evening time . You will need to go to handling classes if you want to show so keep an eye open in the local paper or for adverts at your lcal vets or even contact the KC for info
Good luck
Lel