Derek got best of breed today

PamK · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 7:20 pm Post subject: Derek got best of breed today

and two points. It was really exciting because he won over a special and it is his first one. He has 10 points now so only 5 to go
Very Happy

youhavenoidea · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 7:40 pm Post subject:

Yay! Congratulations!

I know your sister shows Derek for you, but after having been around the shows, and the whole environment, etc. would you ever consider handling him, if you were to do it over?

I'm going to be showing my guy to a Ch. too, but am undecided as to whether I want to handle him myself, or hire a handler.

PamK · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 8:11 pm Post subject:

This is the first show that my sister wasn't able to handle for me so I hired someone. Its a real different experience. Derek is a momma boy so the handler asked to have him for a week before the show. I wasn't that happy about him being away for so long so we compromised on 3 days and the show weekend.

The handler also asked me to hide away from the ring while she was showing. I know that he constantly looks for me and it pulls his body off if I am not where he expects me to be.

It wasn't as fun for me as when my sister shows him.

I don't "get it" so I doubt I'll ever handle him for conformation.

We've done a retrieval test together that I had a blast at and when he is finished I'll probably start obedience or rally classes. During the fall I'll get a chance to watch a hunt test and I'll do that part also.

NenaGunther · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 8:38 pm Post subject:

Congrats!

youhavenoidea · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 8:57 pm Post subject:

BEANSnBERRY · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 9:37 pm Post subject:

YAY!! Congrats on your BOB! You must be so proud of your boy Smile

I handle my dog... it's a lot harder than I thought it would be so much to think of consider, look for, keep in mind, expect... etc hehehehe it's a bit overwhelming at times! Handling classes are a must. DEFINITELY and start as soon as you can. I started at 4 months with my boy and didn't feel comfortable entering him into his first show until 9 months, so 5 months of practicing. But, I'm a bit of a perfectionist.

I've thought about hiring a handler, a lot. But decided I want to finish him myself, though it may take longer, apparently. So there are lots of pros and cons.

BEANSnBERRY · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 9:39 pm Post subject:

BTW - where are the pictures of the big boy?

SparkyTansy · Posted: Sun May 11, 2008 11:47 pm Post subject:

Wow congratulations! must be a good feeling!!
In Australia our point system is set up differently, and from what I can tell it is very difficult to obtain a title in the US. A lot of travelling and expense. Our shows are cheaper and I attend shows only in my state due to the next state being many hours drive!
Most of the handlers in Australia are owner/handlers and we have very few "professional" handlers. Most of the seasoned showies will handle friends dogs for free and many junior handlers like to take on extra dogs for the experience.

peppernaei · Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 9:49 am Post subject:

Congratulations on BOB!! I wish you continued success on the last 5!
Puppy face

freespiritmom · Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 11:31 am Post subject:

Way to go Derek!

anne · Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 12:21 pm Post subject:

Nicely done!
Go for it (handling) one of these days, we all have to start somewhere!