Show Name: Greater Gainesville Dog Fanciers Association Location: Ocala, FL Show Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026 Total Entry: 908 Best In Show Judge: Mr. Richard Todd Jackson Show Photographer(s): Don Meyer • Email: billmeyerphoto@gmail.com Dog Reg: GCHP Cerise Carte Blanche II [Dog] Breed: Spaniel (English Springer) Handler: Howard Huber Owner: D Cherry & K Kirk [...]
Click here to read the complete article 254 – May, 2023 By Sandy Weaver Having a show dog looks so easy–slap on a lead, stand still, look pretty, run around, down and back, and collect your ribbons. In reality, those who consistently have top-winning dogs understand that having a show dog isn’t easy at all–it’s [...]
Do you watch Groups when you go to a show? It’s one of the best ways to improve your handling skills, yet many people don’t take advantage of this learning opportunity.
When most people talk about “show condition” they’re talking about maturity and coat. Some do recognize the need for good muscle tone, so they use a treadmill or they road work their dogs. For most dogs in the ring, muscle condition seems to be an afterthought on the part of their owners. Dogs go into the show ring with muscle tone that comes from lounging, not working, and the judge never really gets to see their full potential.
The dogs are the focus. You are totally correct about that. And the judge is supposed to be looking at the dogs. You are totally correct about that, too.
Have you ever been caught off guard by the judge saying something out of the normal, in-ring instruction? Most exhibitors have at one time or another, and then later wondered if they said the right thing or should have been more confrontational or less confrontational–or just shut up completely.
Could you introduce yourself that way? Nearly everyone who’s been in conformation for less than five years should just go ahead and answer “yes.” And far too many people who’ve been in the sport years longer would answer “yes” if they were being honest with themselves.
It started a few decades ago, when some Parent Clubs decided to do something to recognize dogs that achieved in multiple venues.
One of the best ways to improve at anything is to recognize your strengths and weaknesses. This can be challenging at best and nearly impossible at worst.
Show: Great Dane Club Of The Mid-South Location: Perry, GA Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025 Judge: Ms. Sandy Weaver Dog: GCHP EB The Relentless Pursuit Of Perfection [Dog] Handler: Elyades Betancourt Owner: Dr. P & E Bustillo, R Pineiro & E Betancourt Breeder: E Betancourt, R Pineiro & E Bustillo
