Dog Show Junior Handlers

Showing and handling beautiful dogs in an event such as Westminster isn’t just for adults. In fact, young adults can become junior handlers and older children can enjoy and participate in the event as well. Showing dogs can be fun, teach valuable skills, and develop lifelong friendships among junior handlers. If the idea of this interests you or you want to learn more, take a look below at some information about how to become a dog show junior handler.

Why become a junior handler?
Becoming a junior handler can help the older child or teen to develop their handling skills, learn more about the dog breeds, learn more about dog shows, good sportsmanship, team work, and develop an overall love and appreciation for the shows. Becoming a handler can help one gain confidence and find discipline. It also gives the child or teen something to work towards and look forward to instead of sitting at home all weekend and sleeping in. They learn responsibility and gain mentors that will help teach them life lessons in a safe environment.

Who is eligible to become a junior handler?
Classes to learn this skill of handling are available for children and teens ages 9 to 18 years old. Classes are divided into two sections, Novice and Open. Novice is for newbies just learning how to be a handler, while Open is for handlers with previous wins. Whichever class the handler falls into, all handlers must carry a handling license.

How are the handlers judged?
Judges still expect the same from junior handlers as they do their adult counterparts. They are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful manner, follow the guidelines, and put on a quality presentation. They are also to be well pulled together, looking neat, tidy, and prepared to complete. As for the dogs, they are judged as they typically would be. Junior Handlers often do well in not only Junior Handler Competition but the breed ring as well because they are taught the skills necessary to be competitive and have their dog perform at their best.

So how do you become a junior handler?
First, watch the Junior classes at dog shows and see if it interests you or someone you know. You can even interview other junior handlers and see what they enjoy about participating or gain any knowledge or insight they may have. Once you know that this is a direction you wish to go, talk to your local kennel club where handler classes are typically available.

Which dogs are eligible to compete and how can you find one for your child?
Any dog entered must be eligible to compete in dog shows or obedience trials. The dog must be owned by the child, a member of the child’s family. At many local shows junior showmanship classes are free (if the dog is entered in regular classes) or are offered at the reduced rate. What that means is that if your child is really interested in becoming a Junior handler the entire family must be committed. Some breeders welcome families that have a child that would like to become a Junior Handler and will often be your child’s first mentor. They will help them train for competition help them chose which shows to attend and work with you to help keep the child motivated. A committed junior handler often becomes a big part of their breeders show team and will travel the country to help get all of the dogs groomed and ready.

I have had the privilege of knowing someone and watching from afar as she has come up through the Junior Handler ranks and is now a true force in the show ring. She has aged out of Junior Handling and is getting all of the dogs she shows top honors on any given day all while attending college.

Becoming a Junior Handler can be a fun, exciting, and rewarding experience. If someone you know falls into this category age wise or interest wise, why not look into becoming one? Who knows what adventures, lessons, and friendships await? A special thanks to The American Kennel Club at www.akc.org where you can find even more information about the process of becoming a Junior Handler.