I am interested in knowing more about Junior Showmanship. What are the requirements to be able to show, what is expected of the Junior Showman, do the dogs earn certifiable points through JS? TIA

-- Anonymous, September 12, 1998

Answers

It has been years since my daughter competed in JS, so this will be both dated and superficial. In theory, the dog is secondary (in reality it helps if you have a nice one), and receives no points or other recognition of his own. There are four levels: Junior and Senior Novice and Junior and Senior Open, with Junior and Senior being determined by the child's age. I think the age range is 10 to 17, the break falling at 13. Class wins are decided on the handler's ability to present his dog (that's where a retired CH comes in handy - they already know what to do so all the kid has to worry about is himself). It can be a lot of fun, but like anything with kids is VERY competitive and comes complete with "ring mothers" who can get downright nasty. My daughter, as well as a lot of others, started with 4-H, even though we live in the city. It is a lot nicer for a novice. All breed fun matches have JS classes for Peewees sometimes, and they are a kick. I think they start at 5 or 6.

-- Anonymous, September 12, 1998