Tips for the novice handlers.

Firstly talk to the breeder of your dog.
Most breeders will be helpful as it is one of their dogs that will be on view.

Secondly find a good ring-craft that is nearby.
Most ring-crafts have experienced people who have shown and judged who will go over your dog and give advice.

Ring-crafts are good for socializing. This gets your dog used to different sizes and breeds of dog as well as people and noise.

You will be shown how to stand your dog either free standing, or stacked.

After your dog has been looked over you will be asked to move your dog, most likely in a triangle or straight up and down.

For tips on types of leads etc. ask the breeder.

Be firm but gentle with your dog. Give commands, if your dog knows what you want it to do you will work as a team.

When standing your dog give the command "Stand" in a firm voice. Remember to give commands as a dog is happy if it is not confused. If you want your dog to sit you say "Sit" so if you want your dog to stand tell it to "Stand".

After your dog has been assessed and you are ready to move it, take a couple of seconds to steady yourself and your dog. Always give a command  just something to let them know that they have to start moving.( I tell my dogs "Walk on")

Always hold the lead in your left hand.

Generally you will be asked to do a ‘TRIANGLE’ & a ‘STRAIGHT UP & DOWN’.

TRIANGLE.

If you lead off with your "left leg" the dog will see the movement and start with you.    Dog and handler should move as one in the ring.

When you get to the bottom of the show ring turn "left" as this keeps your dog in view of the judge with the command ‘in’, it also keeps you between your dog and any dogs at the side of the ring, this avoids any possible distractions. If a right turn is needed use the command ‘OUT’ to turn.

STRAIGHT UP & DOWN.

When you get to the bottom of the show ring turn "left" as this keeps your dog in view of the judge with the command ‘in’, it also keeps you between your dog and any dogs at the side of the ring & immediately left again pointing back to the Judge.

On a ‘TRIANGLE’ & a ‘STRAIGHT UP & DOWN’ always finish with a Free Stand to show of your dog to the judge.

If your dog plays up when moving in the ring, don't be afraid to stop and take it back to where it played up and make it do it again. You have paid to show your dog make sure you show it to the best of your ability.

Remember PRACTICE makes PERFECT.

These are just the basics, go to shows, watch, ask and learn.

The most common shows are, Exemption shows, Open shows and Championship shows.