Finding a Handler

[ashley1135]

I took Sulley to a conformation class recently at the local kennel club. After explaining to the organizers that I was complete new and ignorant about showing, they recommended this class to me as a starting point. Well it turns out it was really a practice session where seasoned people practiced with their new dogs. They really didn't teach anything at all, so it wasn't what I needed. Other than telling me Sulley was a good looking puppy, it was worthless, so I don't think I'll go back, at least not until I have a clue.

Sulley is too young to show now, but I want to get him used to the process and learning whatever it is he needs (and I need) to learn to behave properly. For instance, when I try to look at his bite like I've seen judges do, he opens his mouth like he's going to the dentist. :lol: Since this class thing wasn't what I had hoped, I'm at a loss of where to go next to learn everything. I need a mentor or a handler or both.

I really confused about showing. :confused: I think I saw a recommended book on another thread, so maybe I should check that out. How do I find a handler and learn all the ins and outs of the show ring and grooming? It seems like you just have to know someone and unfortunately I don't.

Also, there were a couple of adult frenchies there, and they were HUGE!! They looked like little ottomans. I swear they were wider than they were long. Is that how they are supposed to be? I've tried to study the breed standard but to be honest I don't understand it completely.

Thanks for any info/advice. I hate being so clueless!!!

[franp]

Ashley.
First, the breeder you got your dog from should be mentoring you..So start there..Was your dog sold as a show prospect?

Contact the local breed club in your area. This is the best place to get help..The members will be able point you in the right direction..This may be an all breed or a Frenchie club..

Frenchies are wider in front then in the rear.. That is part of what accounts for the proper gait: double tracking...But the key to a Frenchie is that they be BALANCED...meaning the body should be in proportion..So not necessarily wider than longer..

Ask about puppy matches as well. This is where ( after you start learning) you compete with other dogs (who have no points) for practice at a sanctioned show..

Another place to look for help is the Frenchbulldog Club of America. See if there are any breeders near by that can recommend classes etc..

Once you start to learn, handling class is the place to take your pup to socialize for shows. and to hone your skills...
And above all; have fun...

[franp]

Ok, I typed too soon.. this was not the right class...
But , you need someone to mentor you.. More often than not, a breeder mentors the owner of a show prospect...So get back to your breeder as a start...

Do a search; there are lists for people showing dogs..Find the local Frenchie club..

In my time with my friends around the ring, grooming tips etc have come from the people around the ring.. Making friends etc..One of the first times my friend Stan and I took his dog, someone told us we needed to shave his ears..Who knew..Then the next time someone told us something else.. We called the breeder.. got a full lesson..

When we saw a new person, we shared the knowlegde...It is as much about getting a mentor as about making friends around the ring..And if you have a Handler, they are supposed to do the grooming..

The best place is probably going to be the Frenchbulldog Club list of breeders..Find a couple of breeders near you.. Email them. be persistent..Breeders usually love to help new people..

Good luck...

[ashley1135]

Thanks so much for the information. I'll get back in touch with the breeder and keep looking for someone to work with in my area. Showing seems like it could be so much fun!