Do You Have A Game Plan?

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218 – February, 2026

By Matthew G. Stroud

As another show season begins, ask yourself: do you know why you’re going? Are you chasing points or progress?

Many exhibitors say they have a goal, but few stop to question what that really means. For some, it’s finishing a title. For others, it’s a run at Owner-Handled rankings or that first group placement. Between the ribbons and reality sits something harder to define: a strategy. Not a dream or a wish, but a direction.

Planning often starts with a calendar. We circle weekends, note where the majors are, check judges, and tell ourselves we’re being strategic. But true strategy goes deeper. It asks what success looks like for you and your dog. Some show to build skill, others to earn points, and many simply to enjoy the time together. There’s no wrong answer, only the wrong approach. Some exhibitors thrive on competition, others on consistency. A clear roadmap helps you know which is which before frustration sets in. Without it, every loss feels heavier and every weekend starts to blur together.

Even the best strategies change. Your girl comes into season and blows coat. The majors disappear in your area. Work pulls you away more than expected. Or your dog, once eager to go, starts to tell you it’s not having fun.

Click here to read the complete article
218 – February, 2026

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Posted by AnthonyA on Feb 5 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.