Knowing When To Be A Chief And When To Be An Indian

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160 – May, 2026

By Jordan Moore

Some of the top setups in the country share one thing in common: they have at least one live-in assistant, and if they are fortunate, they might have several assistants on the weekends. Learning how to work alongside co-workers–not only at dog shows, but also in everyday life–is an invaluable skill.

Each day at a dog show can look entirely different. Some days are relaxed and steady, while others are fast-paced and demanding. Regardless of the schedule, it is essential to understand your role within the setup and how you fit into the team as a whole. When everyone understands their responsibilities, the operation runs more smoothly and, most importantly, the dogs’ best interests remain the top priority.

It is important to state this clearly: being a chief or an indian is not wrong. Every role within a setup serves a purpose, and everything assistants do is ultimately for the betterment of the dogs and the handlers they support.

Live-in assistants, or those who have been with a handler the longest, are often viewed as the chiefs. This is because they care for the dogs on a daily basis and develop a deep understanding of each individual dog. They can recognize subtle changes in behavior, understand unique temperaments, and anticipate specific needs. This level of familiarity is earned through time, consistency, and dedication.

Click here to read the complete article
160 – May, 2026

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Posted by AnthonyA on May 15 2026. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.