by BONNIE GUGGENHEIM TNT Advertising Director & Associate Editor BE A SMART EXHIBITOR ETCETERA
D o this every time you are entered and you will be more relaxed about what is requested of you. Observe the judge’s ring pattern and watch their style of going over the exhibits so you can concentrate on showing off the best points of your dog. When you are lined up and wait- ing for final instructions, carefully watch the judge, noticing at what he or she is looking. More than one person has missed a request to go to the front of the class and lost a ribbon for not paying attention. Respect judges’ time —if they take a few minutes to speak with you about
placements or specifics regarding your dog, know they are on a strict time schedule. AKC allows approximately two minutes per dog, so any time they offer to answer your question is a part of their time schedule for that ring on that day. The Field Reps do check times of judges and expect judging to be com- pleted on a timely basis so the Groups may proceed. A smart exhibitor will have done a bit of research so they know what the judge prefers. If he or she comes from a Sporting breed, obviously move- ment is very important; while those who come from a breed that requires extensive grooming, then beauty and
presentation are important. Those who come from one of the so-called head breeds will find the head to be a win- ning feature. Knowing before you enter will help you to enter smart. If you have questions, please be brief, specific and friendly in your approach. If you want to tell him or her what they did wrong on that day, walk away. The judges book is already marked and your comments accomplish nothing that will benefit you on that day or in the future. Exhibitors who verbal- ly accost judges should know the AKC Rep can be called ringside if necessary and is not a good situation. When talking with a judge and they are answering your questions, listen carefully. Some judges will give you a thoughtful and helpful answer that is important for you. Many of the specialty judges know their respec- tive breeds inside and out and have a wealth of information and knowl- edge which they would be happy to share at the right time. Generally, they will find time at the completion of their assignment. A final thought on judges, they all want to do the right thing and hope to find a fabulous dog. The last and most important thing: you cannot win if you don’t play! So take your best, enter smart, win lots and tell all of us about it in Top Notch Toys … where all the finest Toys are found. Email or call me with your exciting new puppies or wonderful win and remember, inquir- ing minds want to know!
Photo by Dale Martenson
Bonnie bonnie@dmcg.com 863.738.8848
14 • T op N otch T oys , A pril 2017
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