This article first appeared in the AKC Gazette.
Written by Marianne Sullivan

One of the more satisfying aspects of dog showing is handling my own dogs. When I first started out as a teenager everyone was very helpful, but when I returned after a ten plus year hiatus, I discovered an atmosphere far more competitive and professional handler oriented. I didn’t have the resources to hire a handler, and in hindsight this turned out to be a very good thing. To be competitive I had to improve my skills. I found friends, both Collie and non-Collie, equally eager to learn and we practiced and helped each other.

I also noticed that in my area there were a handful of handlers whose success rate was high, and their skills were significantly above the competition. They seemed to bring the best out in the dogs and make them shine. When in the ring, their dogs would draw all the attention. How did they do that, I wondered? I noticed that some exhibitors seemed to be simply “leash holders,” going through the routine correctly but no spark or oomph to their handling. What was the secret to these all-star handlers? They seemed to have an unspoken communication and as I more closely observed, their timing and body language conveyed that they knew precisely how to get the most out of the dog. I felt these were important things to incorporate if I was going to improve.

It seems like the professionals have the advantage, but owners handling their own dogs have advantages too. First of all, a relationship is already formed, and a bond established. While the pros often have numerous dogs to show, the owner can focus on their own dog. Any handler needs to have the fundamentals of showing down: gaiting, baiting, grooming, but there is an additional component that seals the relationship. What must be communicated is “I know what I’m doing, trust me, I believe in you, and I will not fail you.” If the dog is stressed, not showing, misbehaving, I suspect the handler has not succeeded in establishing that relationship or done their homework; has not communicated that trust between them. How often I have seen a dog stress and yet the person holding the lead continues to shove bait in their faces, when it is clearly not working. Time to rethink and change your behavior, then the dog will respond!

Half the battle is won if you show up with a clean dog who shows well and gaits in a straight line. But that’s only half! The other part is that elusive something that makes the judge give you an extra look. For example, be aware of when the judge is looking at your dog and create a dynamic picture. One way to do this is some small movement, like turning the head towards the judge. Judges have priorities, so challenge yourself to figure out what they like and then present those virtues in the ring. We may not always convince the judge our dog is the best, but by creating that mental attitude, we also establish a habit of showcasing the positive in our dogs, and appreciating the virtues in the competition.

Going to shows gives me the opportunity to observe and learn: to study other dogs, handlers, and the judges. So despite the outcome, I always go home a winner, because I have taken much more with me than just a win.