Getting Started in Juniors

Breifly, what you need to get started in Junior Showmanship:

an AKC registered dog.
a Junior Handling number.
a copy of Regulations, Judging Guidelines, and Guidelines for Juniors.
information on handling in dog shows.
dedication, patients, and effort.

An AKC registered dog

To show in the American Kennel Club's Junior Showmanship, you must have an AKC registered dog. This means that the dog and the dog's breed must be recognized by the AKC, and registered with it for a small fee. The dog must be able to compete in AKC licenced obedience and conformation shows. This doesn't mean you have to have the top-of-the-line, champion show dog, it just means you have to have an AKC registered one. The judge will not(or should not) judge you on the quality or comformation of the animal, they are going to judge you on how you present the animal to the judge. It wouldn't matter if you had the best show dog in the world, if you don't show it well, you won't get anywhere!

A Junior Hanlding Number

A number issued by the AKC to Juniors who want to show in conformation classes. The number is free, and you can get one by calling (910)233-3785, or by filling out this form online at the AKC. It is used as a reference number to keep track of the number of shows you enter and how many time you have won.

A copy of Regulations, Judging Guidelines, and Guidelines for Juniors

This is very important because the guidelines in this booklet must be followed to show in Juniors. One will come with your Junior Handling number in the mail. If it doesn't, simply write a request for one to the AKC. Single copies are free and each additional copy is $1.00.

Information on Handling in Dog Shows

This is also a must because you can't just walk into the ring unprepared. Books, information web pages, or a breeder, handler or friend are great sources of information for a beginner. I got started with The New Guide to Junior Showmanship by Connie Vanacore.

Dedication, Patients, and Effort

This is as important as anything else. You can't win in Juniors without REALLY trying! Training a dog and waiting for the right time to show takes a lot of patients and hard work. If your not willing to work your butt off to win, don't bother with Juniors!! Because there are so many others that would do anything to get to the top, you will just be blown away.