Tyler, my handsome Grandson, taking to the show ring for the first time. Junior Showmanship Elkton Fl. April 2010
Junior Showmanship provides boys and girls ages 9 to 18 years old the opportunity at AKC shows to learn the skills for handling a dog in the conformation ring. The competition in which juniors participate judges the junior’s teamwork with the dog exhibited and the junior’s capacity to present the dog to the judge.
The purpose of Junior Showmanship is to develop handling skills, to learn about and to display good sportsmanship, and to learn about dogs and dog shows. The junior applies for a number from the AKC and begins the dog showing experience in the Novice Class. After 3 first place wins with competition in the Novice Class, the junior, now more competent, advances to the Open Class. Competition is further divided by the age of the junior, expecting an older junior to be more competent. Scholarships for college are awarded to the most accomplished juniors.
The junior may show his/her dog, a dog that is a member of the family or a member of the household. The dog must be eligible for AKC competition in the conformation and/or the obedience ring. The junior must dress appropriately, demonstrate appropriate show etiquette, and present themselves and the dog being shown in well-groomed condition. What a junior learns as a result are skills essential for a successful and fulfilling life. The proper care and love for animals is indelibly imprinted on the future dogs that become the junior’s companion whether the junior continues to show as an adult or simply loves and cares for their canine companion.
My grandson, Tyler, is so excited that he has reached the age to participate in junior showmanship. Newfies have been part of his life since before he was born. He began attending handling classes and shows while still in a stroller. It is a thrill to watch his interest in Newfoundlands expand from their being his ever-present companion to his show dog in the ring!
Tyler’s junior experience so far
On my first day I was burning up with both excitement and nervousness.
But, I was trying not to show it I got 3rd and 4th place in my first two shows.
“I said well it’s a start it’s not a good one, but it’s a start”. and now here I am
Three shows into my novice junior career and I say what do you know I got
1st place and everybody was congratulating me, All of a sudden the pressure
was off. And sure it’ll probably come back the next time I show I guess the big
point here is if you don’t win the 1st time or the 2nd ,and so on, just keep on trying
and I promise you IF you keep on trying you’ll win some day. One more thing my
big goal in handling is winning best in show some day.
And that’s my story so far.
My Children have blessed me with one of the greatest gifts a parent can ask for, Grandchildren. Each of them are very special to me. My Grandson Tyler is the first Grandchild to step into the Conformation Show ring with me and I am so very proud of him. He has taken to the lead and one day dreams of a Best in Show. With Grammy by his side, we will do our best to achieve that dream. Keep up the good work Tyler!!!!
