Tag: dogs

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Judging

What makes a good judge?

What makes a good judge?
I recently asked on the Winning Paws Facebook page what makes a good judge. After reading some comments about different judges at Crufts (mixture of good and bad), I thought it would make an interesting discussion to see what peoples thoughts are. I also know as an exhibitor myself I will not go under “poor” judges more than once, even if they have done my dogs well.

It seems to  be common that what makes a good judge is one that can (and does) smile in the ring. Something so simple yet noticed by exhibitors. One comment from Elaine Bradley summed it up for me “To have a sense of humour, be pleasant and be able to smile.”

Another is to be kind and gentle and put at ease the dog AND the handler. Especially new or young people in showing like a judge who gives time to explain what they want in a simple way.

I have seen it myself before, judges wander into the ring and think they are the centre of attention. They don’t smile and they think they are above everyone else, even the exhibitors (who without they would have no appointment!)

So to anyone wanting to judge – smile
To anyone who currently judges – smile
And to all those judges who do smile – THANK YOU!

Categories
Show dog training

Alert on the table

Alert on the table
I’ve always believed that training a table dog is the hardest. You have to get the dog used to, and happy to stand on the floor and on the table.

The table can be a scary place for dogs at a show. The surface could be one of many things from carpet to rubber and any colour. The table could wobble and there is the height where each table at each show will put your dog at a different level to you each time.

Therefore, it’s important you get your table dog used to tables and different surfaces. To do this, make sure you make the table a positive experience such as giving loads of yummy treats just for being on the table, play a game when they get off the table and make sure they are used to being on different surfaces.

This will also help to get ears and tails up in breeds that require these features.

Categories
Handling training Uncategorized

Handling with a cross breed

Handling has always been associated from the start with Pedigree/show dogs. Afterall, the art of handling classes has developed from skills used in the breed classes.

But, like everything, handling has developed in to a hobby and competition in it’s own right. The Adult Handling finals started being a seperate entity to any Kennl Club registered show and the YKC weekends host handling compeititions, along with the handling classes at Companion Dog Shows which sit under the novelty classes which are open to pedigree and cross breeds alike.

Though this we have seen an increase in handlers (junior and adult) competing in handling with cross breeds or non KC registered pedigrees.

The YKC allow handlers to compete with cross breeds at their training/activity weekends and have the chance to qualify for the YKC handling at Crufts.

When handling a cross breed there is no set way like with a pedigree, but most would advise you handle your dog to the breed it most resembles.

The same rules still apply, you want to move your dog at the correct speed and is stood so it’s “four-square”.

Categories
Getting started Show dog training

Space Perception – the science behind showing

Space Perception – the science behind showing

Handling a dog isn’t all glamour, there is some science behind it which I will try and explain one at a time.

“Spatial Perception is the ability to evaluate how things are arranged in space, and investigate their relations in the environment. Good spatial perception allows us to grasp the arrangement of our surroundings and our relationship to them. It keeps us from constantly colliding with the objects around us.”

Now, before you think I’m crazy, think about it. In a ring (normally square) there will be many things placed around the ring to be aware of including tables, other exhibitors and dogs, ringtape, stakes, and even flower arrangements, poles, spectators legs or drain covers.

It is important as a handler, you can quickly evaluate the space before moving, to miss any hazards which may hinder your dogs performance.

I have in the past seen many people run into tables, poles or other exhibitors for not looking where they are going, don’t let it be you! Stop, look and think where you can and can’t run in the ring!

Categories
Getting started Handling training Show dog training

Shorten that lead….

Shorten that lead….
If I had a pound for every time I told a handler to shorten their lead….

If you are having problems with your dogs movement, try shortening the lead. This doesn’t mean tightening the lead.

The shorter lead will give you so much more control and most handlers find the new lead length and arm position gives them more control and is more comfortable.

Give it a go and let me know how it goes.

Categories
Top Tips

Top Tip #27

Top Tip #27
Remember to respect your dog, respect other exhibitors, respect the judge, respect the stewards/officials!

Remember to think about everyone else at a show. Although you are there to show your dog off to it’s best, please think of others at the show. 🙂

Categories
Top Tips

Top Tip #21

Top Tip #21
Attend a breed specific judging seminar for your breed, even if you don’t want to judge.

You don’t need to take the exam, just attend to learn more about your breed.

This knowledge is good if you are showing to help you understand your dogs faults. It will improve your handling as a result!

Another good seminar is the Kennel Club conformation and movement. Again to give you the understanding of what makes a good show dog.

You can find more information on these though breed clubs, dog papers and the Kennel Club website.

Categories
Top Tips

Top Tip #20

Top Tip #20
Have “control” of the lead.

Learn to fold the lead in your hand to the desired length quickly, calmly and neatly.

In handling classes this is a must, in breed classes it looks professional and gives a cleaner performance.

Categories
Uncategorized

Blank/spare entry form

 Blank/spare entry form
Ever needed a spare, blank entry form for entering a second dog in a different partnership or because you can’t get hold of a schedule for a UK conformation show?

Well, in true Blue Peter fashion….Here’s one I made earlier…entry form (Excel) or Entry form (Word) or entry form (PDF)