How to Become a Show Dog Handler

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Go to dog shows as a spectator and watch handlers in the ring. Read the judges' score sheets after the class, and try to figure out why they rated the dogs the way they did.
Step 2:
Choose a breed that you think you want to handle. Buy a puppy with potential from a reputable breeder and learn to show him. The breeder can help you teach your dog to stand in show pose and to gait. You'll also learn what the grooming requirements are for that specific breed.
Step 3:
Attend handling classes or seminars given by the American Kennel Club. Go to the AKC's website, select "Clubs" and then click on your state. The individual club's contacts can point you in the right direction.
Step 4:
Apprentice with an experienced handler to find out what exactly paid professionals are involved in. Often a handler boards the dogs, guides their show careers, trains and conditions them for exhibition and chooses what shows to attend.
Step 5:
Gain experience as a paid handler and then register with the AKC or the Professional Handlers Association. These associations require members to have extensive experience and follow a code of ethics.

Resources

More Puppy Pages

How to Register with the AKC (American Kennel Club)

Hi! My name is Gretchen Brown. I have been teaching conformation training and handling professionally for 20 some odd years. I am coming today on behalf of expertvillage.com to teach you how to train and show your show dog. If you want to get an AKC...

Instructions Step 1: Get an AKC eligible dog. The AKC is an organization for purebred dogs and dogs competing in AKC events need to be AKC registered. If your dog isn't registered with AKC, review the registration rules on the AKC website to determine...

Instructions Step 1: Make certain your dog is eligible for AKC sport competition. The AKC is an organization for purebred dog sports, and competing dogs need to be AKC registered. If you have a purebred dog that is not AKC registered, visit the AKC...

Instructions Step 1: Sign your young Saint up for a puppy category in an upcoming AKC (American Kennel Club) dog show. He must be at least 6 months old. The AKC provides an extensive list of all certified shows. (See Resources) Step 2: Seek out a dog...

Instructions Step 1: Determine the breed of dog you would like by matching the breed's temperament with your family's lifestyle and needs. Step 2: Attend a dog show in your area if possible. This is a great way to find breeders. Step 3: Contact the breed...