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SO YOU WANT TO SHOW?
How To Get Started
You and the breeder have decided to show your Saint Bernard and you have done homework on the breed and the breed Standard. Conformation Shows are events at which ANKC Ltd registered dogs compete for points toward a championship through a prescribed system. The dogs are evaluated by a judge who compares them against the Breed Standard in terms of conformation, movement, and behaviour. Dogs that have been neutered are not eligible to compete for points towards the title of Australian Champion or Grand Champion. However, some shows hold special classes for neutered dogs and bitches.
Alternatively, you may want to participate at Obedience Trials which are events at which ANKC Ltd registered dogs compete by performing specific exercises at various levels of difficulty. Obedience trials can be held separately or in conjunction with all breed shows. Neutered animals are eligible to paticipate in obedience trials.
Generally there are shows and trials every weekend around NSW and interstate. To show or trial your dog you will be required to become a member of Dogs NSW. Once you have joined the Dogs NSW you will receive the Dogs NSW magazine, that will list upcoming shows and trials in the Gazette section.
For those who choose to show, at first it is a good idea to ask the breeder of your dog to help you select the shows to enter, this way they will probably be there or someone they know on the day to give you a guiding hand. You will need to submit an entry form to the club holding the show by the closing date. You may also be able to enter online at Ozentries at www.ozentries.com.au. Again, the breeder should be happy to assist you with completing your entry. The week prior to the show you should receive your Exhibitors Number - remember to take this with you to the show and catalogue collection ticket if you preordered one.
When you arrive at the show, set up with the breeder or someone with ring experience that can show you the ropes of how to handle your dog and show ring protocol. It is a good idea to have this pre-arranged and the breeder should be happy to help you with this. You can also refer to the Dogs NSW website for information on the ring procedure. If possible, attend a show or two before your big debut to get a feel for the way things are done and on the day keep a close eye on the ring when few breed before the Saint Bernards are due.
You and the breeder have decided to show your Saint Bernard and you have done homework on the breed and the breed Standard. Conformation Shows are events at which ANKC Ltd registered dogs compete for points toward a championship through a prescribed system. The dogs are evaluated by a judge who compares them against the Breed Standard in terms of conformation, movement, and behaviour. Dogs that have been neutered are not eligible to compete for points towards the title of Australian Champion or Grand Champion. However, some shows hold special classes for neutered dogs and bitches.
Alternatively, you may want to participate at Obedience Trials which are events at which ANKC Ltd registered dogs compete by performing specific exercises at various levels of difficulty. Obedience trials can be held separately or in conjunction with all breed shows. Neutered animals are eligible to paticipate in obedience trials.
Generally there are shows and trials every weekend around NSW and interstate. To show or trial your dog you will be required to become a member of Dogs NSW. Once you have joined the Dogs NSW you will receive the Dogs NSW magazine, that will list upcoming shows and trials in the Gazette section.
For those who choose to show, at first it is a good idea to ask the breeder of your dog to help you select the shows to enter, this way they will probably be there or someone they know on the day to give you a guiding hand. You will need to submit an entry form to the club holding the show by the closing date. You may also be able to enter online at Ozentries at www.ozentries.com.au. Again, the breeder should be happy to assist you with completing your entry. The week prior to the show you should receive your Exhibitors Number - remember to take this with you to the show and catalogue collection ticket if you preordered one.
When you arrive at the show, set up with the breeder or someone with ring experience that can show you the ropes of how to handle your dog and show ring protocol. It is a good idea to have this pre-arranged and the breeder should be happy to help you with this. You can also refer to the Dogs NSW website for information on the ring procedure. If possible, attend a show or two before your big debut to get a feel for the way things are done and on the day keep a close eye on the ring when few breed before the Saint Bernards are due.
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For the ring you will need:
· a good fitting check chain for your Saint · a good lead suitable for your dog · an exhibitors number lapel clip or armband · a good pair of running shoes · a slobber rag · a treat or small toy to gain your dogs attention |
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Below you will see a table of how the system works. Don't worry too much as we all have had our first show so you're not alone. It is also a good idea to let the ring steward know that this is your first show. This should be a fun, social day to enjoy with your dog and other dog lovers so try to relax and enjoy a new sport with your Saint!
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