“IN THE COMPANY OF AN OWNER-HANDLED DOG, the show ring can seem like nirvana.”
that are resting back at the set-up with their handlers, hoping for a bet- ter outcome tomorrow. For exhibi- tors who find themselves in the Group ring by default, the opportunity to grow—if not win—abounds. Just be- ing in the ring with yesterday’s Best in Show winner (or last year’s Westmin- ster winner) provides an unparalleled chance to watch and learn from the best. (Just imagine yourself on the field with Tom Brady or on the mat with Simone Biles!) Being in close proximity to the sport’s best is an ex- perience without equal. So, use your dog’s low entry status to expect more from yourself by “rubbing shoulders” with the greats. Low entries certainly provide chal- lenges for the AKC and show-giving clubs, as well as for exhibitors, but they also provide opportunities for personal growth and breed aware- ness that are unmatched in the sport. As an exhibitor of a low entry breed, take the time to educate other fanci- ers about your breed by presenting your dog in a manner that gets every- one’s attention. Eventually, you and your dog will get noticed by virtue of your dedicated efforts and your dog’s breed-specific qualities. It’s your job to level the playing field… nobody’s going to do it for you. So, take advan- tage of your circumstances. Mea- sure progress in increments that are unique to you and your dog. The “big win” will surely come, but it will fol- low many, many smaller victories. T op N otch T oys , O ctober 2022 • 33
vana. And when your dog is the only entry in its breed, the experience is simply the two of you visiting with a judge who probably traveled a long way to meet you. Allow the moment to reveal a quiet confidence that you
INTRODUCE THE INTROVERT
Not everyone who shows dogs is a “people person.” In fact, many dog show exhibitors are happiest spend- ing time with their animal compan- ions, and interact with people only when absolutley necessary. For the introverted exhibitor, dog shows can provide a “safe space” where human interaction is mitigated by the pres- ence of a trusted canine companion. In the company of an owner-handled dog, the show ring can seem like nir-
didn’t know you possessed. LOW ENTRIES/HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Of course, owner handlers of a low entry breed get more ring-time than do exhibitors of the more popular breeds. For every Australian Shep- herd or Boxer that makes it into the Group ring, there are dozens more
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