ARE YOU HAVING FUN YET?
by Richard Paquette, All-Breed Judge, Wenrick Shih Tzu
T here seems to be a lot of discussion lately at dog shows and on social media about the age-old topic of profes- sionals versus owner-handlers. Many seem to have be- come disenchantedwith the dog show scene and the re- wards & benefits of participating at shows. I am a long-time participant of almost 50 years in this sport as a successful breeder, a former professional dog handler, and now an All- Breed Judge. I have some observations that will hopefully help you to increase your rewards and help you understand what it takes to be successful and have some fun. Our sport needs to have a RESET. Why do we show our dogs? The original purpose is “to evaluate quality breeding stock in order tomaintain the integrity of the breed.”We all like to win, but the reality is that there will be many occa- sions when all of our hard work is not enough, and our ex- penditures of time and money can seem futile. Increasing our winning percentage is always a positive, but as we par- ticipate in the sport, we need to enjoy the process more— beyond just the winning. If it is not fun, why are we doing it? Do have realistic expectations. Yes, dream big, but do not expect “instant gratification” and success when initially competing against individuals who “eat, sleep, and drink” this game. Success will happen for you as it has for all of those you respect in the sport. Be patient, it does take time. Starting off on the right foot will be helpful. Finding a men- tor with a positive outlook is essential. As well as impart- ing great doggie knowledge, they will hopefully teach you that everything takes time, including success. I can tell you from experience that we have lost countless potentially great dog people along the way who followed a common trend of being “in five years and out.” Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to suc- cess when they gave up. Many factors have caused this, and a general statement that we are not a “welcoming group” is easily identified as amajor cause. I have always been amen- tor to newcomers because I remember how I started as a complete novice and how appreciative I was of those who helped me along the way to my blessed success, by impart- ing some knowledge and, in many instances, just offering an encouraging word. Many owner-handlers are intimidated with the prospect of competing against top owner-handlers and professional handlers. Part of the problem is a lack of preparation. I see a lot of dogs come into my ring that are not trained or so- cialized well and, in some cases, groomed well. How do you
“SUCCESS WILL HAPPEN FOR YOU AS IT HAS FOR ALL OF THOSE YOU RESPECT IN THE SPORT. Be patient, it does take time.”
T op N otch T oys , N ovember 2021 • 55
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