I have hear some people mention taking there dogs to a handling class for showing. I don't think I would show my boy but I think it would be a lot of fun to learn how to handle him like a show dog. I just love learning new dog things. I already have a puppy class lined up in basic obedience but I was wondering how you would find a show dog class?

I am in South East Idaho if anyone knows of one.

Check local dog training clubs (not Petsmart/Petco) and local area kennel clubs to see who offers the conformation classes.

Most states have a Kennel Club, and some cities do as well. We have a Nebraska Kennel Club and that is where I found my local handling classes. I am getting a Standard Poodle puppy from a Canadian breeder next year (2014), and while I'm not sure this puppy will be a show puppy, I do plan to get one from her. So, I want to get my feet wet to see if that really IS the route I want to take in my future.

HuskyMom09 wrote:

Check local dog training clubs (not Petsmart/Petco) and local area kennel clubs to see who offers the conformation classes.

Lani, not Petsmart or Petco? They have the BEST trainers, just ask them  I find it so helpful for them to tell me everything I'm doing wrong and then try to sell me a "clicker".

We have a local dog training club they are really cool they do CGC, rally, obedience, agility, tracking, I know I am forgetting something. They are great but non threw them. I love there classes though and being part of a dog training club rocks. I know a girl who shows shelties but she hasn't been to the meetings recently.

I think Blackfoot Idaho might have one.

Thank for the tips.

I am glad I got into the dog training club before petco or pet smart. I get to work with people who are doing it for the love of dogs and with the goal of helping people have better relationships with there dogs.

Also in your internet searching terms like "breed handling" or "conformation handling" help.

Another thing I thought of, was that you could attend a show as a spectator and ask around to see if anyone has any suggestions. It's also a great way to decide if you do want to get into showing. You can go to infodog.com and search for shows in your area.

I google a lot - but I also had a few breeder friends who helped me out. The best way to learn how to handle is to find a mentor who can individually critique you. I have handled quite a few dogs now and it's a great experience. The more you handle the better you get. It has been wonderful learning how to handle shy dogs, over-confident dogs, lazy dogs, spas dogs...there's something different you have to do with each dog.

Megan B. where would you get a nylon slip collar? I know I can get it at the dog show in my area in June but I thought you might know of a place online?

Elise, I REALLY like the website http://www.cherrybrook.com/

Thank you Kelsey also I read a post from you were you talked about how not all pit bulls are not bad dogs and how BLS is crap and it made me happy to hear. I would comment on the post but now I can't find it.

Cherrybrook is good - I also love White Pine Outfitters - both their show leads and their regular collars.