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A.S.S.A JUNIOR HANDLING GUIDE
A RESOURCE FOR JUNIORS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Ch.
1: A Brief History of Junior Showmanship
Ch.
2: A.K.C. Junior FAQs
Ch.
3: Getting Started in Junior Showmanship
Ch.
4: A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Regulations - A Guide to Junior Showmanship
Ch.
5: A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Regulations - Junior
Showmanship Judging Guidelines
Ch.
6: A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Regulations - A Guide to
Performance Events
Ch.
7: A.K.C. Junior Recognition Program
Ch.
8: A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Scholarship Program
Ch.
9: Shetland Sheepdog Breed Standard
Ch.
10: A.S.S.A. Best Junior
Handler Winners
Ch.
11: Careers in Dogs
A Brief History of Junior Showmanship
Part of the mission
of the American Kennel Club is to "Take whatever actions necessary to protect
and assure the continuation of the sport of purebred dogs." The A.K.C.'s Junior
Showmanship Program is just one example of the kennel club's commitment to
fulfilling this portion of its charter statement.
In the late 1920's a group of dog show exhibitors led by Mr.
Leonard Brumby, Sr., decided to develop a special competition for children. The
purpose of the competition would be to introduce a new generation of fanciers to
the sport and to give children the opportunity to measure their skills against
those of their peers. The children would be judged by how well they presented
their dogs with respect to the nuances of the breed being shown. The first
Children's Handling class was held at the Westbury Kennel Association show of
1932, and quickly became a popular feature at other A.K.C. events.
In 1949 the Professional Handlers Association donated a trophy
in honor and memory of Mr. Brumby to the winner of the Children's Handling
Classes at the Westminster Kennel Club show. This trophy is still awarded to the
winner of the Junior Handler competition at Westminster and is the most
sought-after prize in the sport.
Children's Handling classes were very informal when the program began. The
judging of the classes would normally start whenever the first breed ring became
available. The judges were usually professional handlers themselves, and the
participants were allowed to use any dog that was available to them.
In 1951 the name of the competition was changed from Children's
Handling to Junior Showmanship. Twenty years later, in 1971, the American Kennel
Club recognized the virtues of Junior Handler competition and granted official
recognition for these classes at A.K.C. events.
The Junior Showmanship program has grown and changed in dramatic
fashion since its humble beginnings in 1932. The A.K.C. now has guidelines for
participation and adjudication of this event. For example, juniors must be
between 9 and 18 years of age to participate. They must win three first
placements in the Novice class before advancing to the Open class. Judges must
be approved by the A.K.C. to judge Junior classes, and the dogs that the junior
handlers exhibit must be owned by them, a member of their family, or a relative.
In 1999 the Junior Showmanship program was expanded to include
performance events. Currently, a Junior Handler that handles a dog to a
performance title will receive a certificate from the A.K.C. acknowledging this
accomplishment.
The American Kennel Club also awards Scholarships to deserving
Junior Handlers to encourage them to continue on with their education. The A.K.C.
awarded 38 Junior Handler Scholarships in 2002. The Board of the American Kennel
Club has just increased the Junior Scholarship Fund from $60,000 to $100,000.
This can truly be seen as affirmation of the A.K.C.'s commitment to the youth of
our sport.
Junior handlers become ineligible to compete in Junior
Showmanship classes at the age of 18. In most cases, their participation in the
sport of purebred dog does not cease once they have "aged out" of competition.
From the ranks of Junior Handlers we find the future breeders, A.K.C. Club
Members, approved judges and Registered Handlers who will be the caretakers of
our sport in the future. We see many of these kids go on to pursue careers as
veterinarians. One former Junior is now the CEO of the Orthopedic Foundation for
Animals; others have gone on to serve as Board Members of the American Kennel
Club. Still others have gone onto make their contribution to the sport as A.K.C.
employees.
While the Junior Showmanship program itself has gone through
changes, the concept and reasons for its implementation have remained the same:
to encourage participation in the sport by young purebred dog enthusiasts; to
teach good sportsmanship, win or lose; and to educate the next generation of the
fancy.
A.K.C. Junior FAQs
1. How do I join the A.K.C. Junior Organization?
Everyone who has a
Junior Showmanship number is automatically entered in the A.K.C. National Junior
Organization.
2. What is a Junior Showmanship Number and do I need to have one to compete in
A.K.C. events?
A Junior Showmanship
Number is a number you use when you enter an event. It is used to track your
wins, and determine eligibility for Open once three firsts with competition has
been earned. In Performance Events your Junior number is linked to the dog's
results to recognize your handling the dog to a title.
3. How do I get a Junior Showmanship number?
Call 919-816-3776 and
leave your name, address and birth date. E-mail: juniors@akc.org or use A.K.C.’s
on-line Junior Showmanship Request Form
4. How
do I find out about shows?
Juniors can look in
the Events Calendar, which is delivered along with the A.K.C. Gazette or on the
A.K.C. Website (http://www.akc.org), to see which shows are holding Junior
Showmanship as well as all Performance Events.
5. Who is eligible for Conformation Junior Showmanship Competition?
Effective January 1,
2005 any boy or girl who is at least 9 years old and under the 18 years of age
the day of the show.
6. How do I move up from a Novice class to an Open class?
Juniors can move into
the Open class once they have won 3 first place awards in a Novice class.
Competition must be present in all 3 Novice classes in order for the Junior to
move up.
7. What does Amateur Class mean in reference to Junior Showmanship?
As of January 1, 2000
any individual who is listed as an agent is not eligible to compete in Junior
Showmanship, nor any person who distributes rate cards otherwise advertises
themselves as handling dogs for pay in the show ring, or accepts payment for
handling.
8. Will a Junior lose amateur status if they work for a professional handler?
Junior Showmanship is
intended to encourage Juniors to learn how to care for and present different
breeds. Part of the educational process could include apprenticeship or
assisting professional handlers. Juniors may take their employers' dogs into the
ring while still retaining amateur status.
9. What if I don't own a purebred dog? Can I show someone else's?
Each dog must be
owned by the Junior Handler or by the Junior Handler's father, mother, brother,
sister, uncle, aunt, grandfather, or grandmother, including the corresponding
step and half relations, or by a member of the Junior Handler's household.
10. What dogs are eligible to show in Juniors?
To enter a dog in a
Conformation Junior Showmanship Class it must be eligible for entry in an A.K.C.
Dog Show or Obedience Trial. This includes dogs that have Indefinite Listing
Privileges (ILP) or Limit Registration status.
11. Can a Junior handler show a spayed or neutered dog in Junior Showmanship
Competition?
Yes. A spayed or
neutered dog is not eligible for conformation competition, but it is eligible
for obedience competition; therefore it can be handled in Junior Showmanship
classes.
12. My dog that was entered is unable to go to the show, can I substitute?
One substitution per
show is allowed. The dog must meet the same eligibility requirements as the
entered dog. The substitution must be accompanied by an official A.K.C. entry
form including the substituted dog's A.K.C. registration number. The
substitution must be made at least one half hour prior to the judging of any
Junior Showmanship Classes.
13. How do I learn to show my dog?
There are several
ways to learn to show a dog, and probably a combination of all of these would
provide for the most well rounded experience. You may attend breed handling
classes given by your local kennel club. You could watch experienced breeders
and handlers show your breed at a show, or you could ask a professional handler
that shows your breed for some pointers when they have some free time. Beyond
that practice, practice, practice.
14. Is there a special juniors class for Performance Events?
There is not a
special class, however Juniors are recognized for competing in all the
Performance Events. The junior will enter the dog in the class in which it would
normally compete for the event. In each of these events the dogs are scored
individually on their performance. A Junior handling a dog to a Performance
title will receive a certificate and a specially designed pin. The Junior is to
obtain the Certification forms, fill it out and have the judge sign it.
15. How does a Junior record their participation in Performance Events?
It is the
responsibility of the Junior to have a Junior Handler certification form filled
out and signed by the judge on the day of the event. One copy is sent in with
the judge's book and the Junior should keep one copy.
16. How do I get the Junior Handler Certification forms?
They may be obtained
from the Show Secretary, Superintendent, Field Representative, or by contacting the American Kennel Club.
17. How old must you be to be eligible to apply as a Junior Showmanship Only Judge?
You must be 18 years
old to be eligible to apply as a Junior Showmanship Judge.
18. Is there a minimum age for Judging Juniors at a match show?
There is no minimum
age for judging Juniors at a match. If you have substantial experience and would
feel comfortable, and have been invited to judge, then it is okay.
19. How do you obtain the Junior Newsletter?
The Junior Newsletter
is now and e-newsletter. You must sign up to receive it. Past issues
are archived online.
20. If a Junior is entered in the wrong class for their age, can the Junior change
the entry after it has closed?
Yes. This transfer
must be made at least one-half hour prior to the judging of any Junior
Showmanship class at the show.
21. If a Junior from a Novice class of one wins Best Junior Handler at a show, does
this win count towards moving towards the Open classes?
No. Only wins in
either the Novice Junior, Intermediate, or Senior classes with competition will
count.
Getting Started in Junior Showmanship
The American Kennel
Club licenses dogs shows (competitive exhibitions in which dogs are judged in
accordance with an established standard of perfection for each breed) that test
and evaluate the form and function of purebred dogs. In addition, at some shows
the A.K.C. offers classes which evaluate the abilities of the participant on the
other end of the lead, the young handler.
A.K.C. Junior Showmanship classes offer youngsters the
opportunity to:
1. Develop their
handling skills
2. Learn about good sportsmanship
3. Learn about dogs and dog shows.
Join the world of
A.K.C. Junior Showmanship!
Juniors are important to the future of the sport of dogs and
responsible dog ownership, and the more they learn, the more valuable they
become. The values, attitudes and responsibility learned through Junior
Showmanship will serve youngsters well throughout their lives. By putting time
and effort into learning about their dog and how to present it, juniors are
rewarded with a win.
Who may participate
Junior Showmanship classes are open to children from 9 to 18 years old and
are divided into Novice and Open classes: All participants in Junior Showmanship
classes must have an A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Handler Number.
Novice classes are for those children who, at the time entries close, have not
won three (3) first-place awards in a Novice class at a licensed or member show.
To qualify as a win, more than one child must be in competition in a class. The
Novice class gives those children who are beginners a chance to gain experience
and confidence apart from the more seasoned youngsters. Open classes are for
those children having three or more first-place wins; these are the more
experienced Junior Handlers. A beginner can learn how to present their dog more
effectively by watching these talented youngsters in the ring.
The classes may
further be divided into:
- Junior: At least
9 years old but under 12 years old on the day of the show.
- Intermediate: At
least 12 years old but under 15 years old on the day of the show.
- Senior: At least
15 years old but under 18 years old on the day of the show.
Judging criteria
Juniors are judged on their ability to present, or handle, their
dogs within the same formats and guidelines as those who compete in the breed
ring. The quality of their presentation, not the dog, is judged. Juniors are
encouraged to develop their handling abilities, dress appropriately, conduct
themselves in a proper manner, and present their dog in a well-groomed
condition.
What about the dog?
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 or member of his household. Many times junior showmanship classes are
free (if the dog is entered in regular classes) or are offered at the reduced
rate.
How to get started
The best way for prospective junior handlers to see what is
involved in junior handling is to watch the Junior Showmanship classes at a dog
show. They will see how children take part at all levels of competition, how
they have developed friendships and have learned to compete and accept their
wins and losses in a gracious manner. Talk to these young participants in our
sport. You will be impressed by their knowledge, attitudes and their willingness
to share their experiences with someone new to the sport. Another way to learn
the basics is at your local dog club. Many clubs offer weekly handling classes.
These informal sessions are conducted in a relaxed atmosphere and afford both
dog and handler an opportunity to practice in a setting similar to an actual
show.
In order to receive Premium Lists (which detail date, location
and judges of all classes at a particular show) for shows in your area, visit
the Superintendent's office at any show. Or subscribe to the A.K.C. Gazette and you will receive, as a part of your subscription, the Events Calendar, a
monthly supplement which lists all the A.K.C. events held throughout the
country.
Junior Showmanship Regulations - A Guide to Junior Showmanship Competition for
Juniors
Section 1. Amateur
Class.
An individual listed as an agent is not eligible to compete in Juniors, nor any
person who distributes rate cards or otherwise advertises themselves as handling
dogs for pay in the show ring, or accepts payment for handling dogs.
"Participation in Junior Showmanship is intended to encourage Juniors to learn
how to care for and present different breeds. Part of the educational process
could include apprenticeship or assisting professional handlers. Junior may take
their employers' dogs into the ring while still retaining amateur status."
Section 2.
Juniors are important to the sport of dogs. Juniors who learn about good
sportsmanship, dogs, handling and dog shows will be valuable to the sport in the
future. Junior Showmanship classes are offered at most dog shows. These classes
are held so that young people can:
- Experience
winning and losing among those who are similar in age.
- Learn the correct
way to handle the breed they own.
- Practice handling
skills in competition.
- Improve the way
they handle their own dog.
- Prepare for
handling dogs in the regular classes.
Section 3.
Junior Showmanship classes are judged on the ability of the Junior to handle his
or her dog. The quality of the dog is not judged. Juniors will be asked to
demonstrate:
- Moving the dog
with the rest of the class.
- Presenting the
dog in the standing position proper to its breed (including the use of an
examining table for those breeds normally judged on a table).
- Moving the dog
individually in a regular pattern.
Section 4.
Juniors are expected to know basic ring routines. They should be able to follow
directions, use space wisely, and be familiar with gaiting patterns. Juniors
should appear "ring wise," alert to what is going on in the ring, and should be
prepared for changes in the routine of judging.
JUNIORS MUST BE ABLE TO CONTROL THEIR DOGS AT ALL TIMES. Any Junior who cannot
control his or her dog will be excused by the judge.
Section 5. Appearance and Conduct.
Juniors should be clean, neat, and well-groomed. They should wear clothing that
is comfortable to handle in and appropriate for dog shows. Clothing should not
distract, limit or hinder the judge's view of the dog.
Dogs should be groomed and trimmed as they would be for the breed ring. Judges
will not evaluate the quality of the grooming and trimming, but Juniors should
make an effort to prepare their dogs properly. Unnecessary grooming of the dog
in the ring to gain attention is not proper conduct. Juniors should appear
confident, prepared, business-like and attentive. They should be courteous to
both the judge and other Juniors. Juniors are expected to handle their dogs
without disturbing the dogs of the other Juniors. Juniors should not crowd and
they should not distract others by continued use of toys and bait. Juniors
should be alert to the needs of their dogs. They should use firm but thoughtful
hands in controlling and handling their dogs. Juniors should not be impatient or
heavy-handed.
Section 6. Conflicts.
Juniors may have a conflict between the Judging of their Junior Showmanship
class and conformation judging or another event. In this instance the Junior
will have to make a decision as to where they will compete. A Junior may enter
the Junior Showmanship class up until the time every Junior in the class has
been examined and gaited. If a Junior starts to compete in the Junior class and
requests to be excused to go exhibit in conformation or another event, he or she
is permanently excused.
Section 7.
Juniors will be judged on their ability to present their dogs in the same way
the dog is properly handled in the breed ring. Juniors will also be judged on
their ability to make their individual dog look its best in both pose and
motion. During all parts of the competition Juniors should handle their dogs in
a quiet, smooth, efficient manner. Juniors should strive to make the DOG stand
out as the most important part of the team effort.
Section 8.
Junior handlers should:
- Keep their dog's
attention without using dramatic or unnecessary movements.
- Gait their dogs
in a controlled trot without distracting or interfering with the judge's
view of the dog. Be aware of what is going on in the ring.
- Concentrate on
their dog and not the judge.
- Junior handlers
who use exaggerated posture, motions or gestures in any part of the
competition will be faulted.
Section 9.
There are many ways Juniors can find help in learning about Junior Showmanship
and handling their own dogs. In addition to the help of parents, Juniors may
seek the advice of experienced breeder-exhibitors, professional handlers,
handling instructors, and former Juniors. They may also learn from the A.K.C.
breed videocassettes, books on handling, books on individual breeds, and by
observing breed and group judging at dog shows.
Section 10. Substitution.
Juniors are limited to the substitution of one dog per show. The junior must
have the A.K.C. number of the substitute dog.
Junior Showmanship Regulations - Junior Showmanship Judging Guidelines
Section 1. Definition
and Purpose.
Junior Showmanship classes are non-regular classes which are judged solely on
the ability and skill of Juniors in handling their dogs as in the breed ring.
The purpose of Junior Showmanship Competition is twofold: to introduce and
encourage Juniors to participate in the sport of dogs; and to provide Juniors
with a meaningful competition in which they can learn, practice, and improve in
all areas of handling skill and sportsmanship. It is important that judges of
Junior Showmanship Competition understand the definition and purpose of these
classes and take seriously their role in guiding the future guardians of the
sport. JUDGES ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE A GENUINE INTEREST IN JUNIORS AND IN JUNIOR
SHOWMANSHIP COMPETITION.
Section 2. Limited Status Junior Showmanship Judge.
Limited Status will allow the individual to judge Juniors only at a
Specialty show of a breed they are approved to judge. Limit Status Judges may
not judge Juniors at specialties for breeds they are not approved to judge, nor
may they judge Juniors at all breed shows.
Section 3. Prerequisites for Judges.
(See Page 1, Section 4) Those who judge Junior Showmanship must be familiar with
the Junior Showmanship Rules and Regulations as well as all other Rules and
Policies that apply to all judges. The occupational eligibility requirements in Chapter 7, Section 1, of
the Rules Applying to Dog Shows would apply to Junior Showmanship
Judges, except that a professional handler may be approved. The Guidelines for
Conformation Dog Show Judges apply to individuals approved to judge
Junior Showmanship and it is therefore necessary to be thoroughly versed in
these areas.
Judges must complete all provisional requirements for Breed or Junior
Showmanship. They shall have demonstrated successfully their ability to conduct
their ring in a consistent, businesslike and safe manner that will instill
confidence in exhibitors and spectators. A Procedural Report for the Judging of
Junior Showmanship will be used by the Field Representative to discuss any
recommendations or procedural deficiencies and submitted to the judge's file.
Continuation of deficiencies may result in changing the approval status to Limit
Junior Showmanship.
Section 4. Responsibilities of the Junior Showmanship Judge.
It is important for judges to be teachers by example. They should be prompt,
courteous, patient and properly attired. Judges must be impartial and totally
separate the handling ability of the Juniors they judge from any other
consideration. As a judge of Juniors at an all breed event it is essential to be
familiar with the appropriate presentation for every breed. Impartiality extends
to eliminating from the judging process bias for or against the breed handled,
friendships, external knowledge of a Junior's record of competition, or prior
knowledge or assumption of the dog's training or preparation.
Judges should never solicit or offer to judge Junior Showmanship. No assignment
should be taken which does not meet the time and distance requirements of 200
miles and 30 days as set forth in the Guidelines for Judges.
Chapter 11, Section 13,
of the Rules Applying to Dog Shows would not apply to individuals
approved to judge Junior Showmanship Only. However, if Junior Showmanship Judges
plan to exhibit or handle dogs at a show, or if dogs owned by them are to be
entered, the judge should not attend pre-show social functions with other judges
for that show or attend the judges' luncheon the day of the show.
If a Junior co-owns a dog with a judge, the dog may be entered in Junior
Showmanship Only, at an event where the judge is judging classes other than
Junior Showmanship.
Section 5. Safety.
Juniors with varying degrees of experience and dogs with great differences in
size, temperament and training need safe ring conditions. Judges must make every
effort to ensure the safety of the Juniors and their dogs during competition.
Judges should arrange or rearrange competitors in order of gaiting speed or size
of dog to avoid crowding and instruct Juniors to leave adequate space between
themselves and the Junior in front of or behind them. Moving two dogs together
(side by side) is discouraged as is any pattern which places any dog in close
proximity to other dogs when lead control is at a minimum, e.g., on a loose
lead, etc. In large classes judges should admit only as many Juniors into the
ring as can be safely examined. Never hesitate to divide any class for any
reason where the safety of the individuals or the dogs is involved. Likewise, do
not hesitate to excuse from the ring any dog which is out of control, lame or
which is otherwise ineligible to compete. Any dog showing signs of menacing or
threatening behavior should be excused immediately. Any dog that attacks any
individual in the ring shall be disqualified in accordance with Chapter 11, Section 8A,
of the Rules Applying to Dog Shows. In the case of a disqualification
the judge must inform the Junior that the dog is not eligible to be exhibited
again at any A.K.C. event, and complete the necessary form for Disqualifying a
dog for attacking. Advise the Junior to speak with the A.K.C. Field
Representative about the reinstatement policy.
Section 6. Judging Routine.
The actual routine of judging is to be consistent with the procedures utilized
when judging conformation. The number of Juniors, size of the ring, ring
conditions, weather and time of day will influence the actual procedures used.
Judges will strive to evaluate competitors in an appropriate and consistent
manner. It is essential that only the gaiting patterns and procedures used in
regular dog show classes be used.
It is the responsibility of the judge to be aware of the appropriate
presentation for all breeds, which is to include knowledge of which breeds are
normally examined on a table. Upon request, the Superintendent will provide the
list of breeds entered in Junior Showmanship.
It is urged that the judge request each Junior to present their dog individually
for examination, allowing the judge to observe the rapport between the junior
and the dog while being set up on either the ground or the table. Judges should
ask the Junior to show the dog's bite, although with younger Juniors judges
should use their discretion. The procedure for completing the examination of the
dogs should closely resemble that of breed judging but need only be cursory as
the quality of the dog is not being evaluated. Judges should be consistent with
every Junior, using the same gaiting patterns, the same procedural requests, and
allowing each Junior approximately the same amount of time. Judges may revise
the gaiting patterns when making final decisions. A judge should not confuse the
ability of a Junior to take directions with the Junior's ability to handle his
dog. Some freedom of expression and expertise should be allowed.
Judges should consider how their own movements in the ring might precipitate
awkward and unusual handling results. For example, when examining the class as a
whole in motion, the judge should be inside the circle; and when examining a
class of standing or posed dogs the judge should not move from one side of the
line to the other, creating unnecessary movements.
Judges should limit conversation with Juniors during competition to that which
is absolutely necessary. However, judges should be prepared to answer Juniors'
questions following judging and be able to provide positive comments and
constructive criticism. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD QUESTIONS BE USED AS A
MEANS OF TESTING A JUNIOR'S KNOWLEDGE. A suggestion: Should the Junior ask for
comments following the judging, ask them to return with their dog, time
permitting, and review their presentation.
Section 7. Conflicts.
A Junior may have a conflict with their dog in another class. The judge may
allow a Junior to enter the ring up until the time they have examined and gaited
every dog in the class.
Should a Junior request to be excused to go show in another ring, they are
permanently excused and may not return.
Section 8. Judge's Examination and Evaluation.
The judge should examine and evaluate the class of Juniors in four basic areas:
proper breed presentation, skill in the individual dog's presentation, knowledge
of ring procedures, and appearance and conduct. The general rule in evaluating a
handler's capabilities is ECONOMY OF MOTION. Handlers who use exaggerated
motions and gestures in any phase of their presentation of the dog should be
faulted. In essence, the judge should hardly be aware of the capable handler's
presence while completing the dog's examination. In many respects a Junior
Showmanship judge's principal consideration should be to find those Juniors who
possess a "hand for dogs." Those handlers having this attribute neither over-
nor under-handle their dogs. They present their dogs in a quiet, efficient
manner. They are able to keep their dog's attention without dramatic or
unnatural movements. They are able to gait their dogs in a collected trot, never
distracting or interfering with the judge's vision of the dog.
Breed Presentation. While the judge must consider all areas important in
evaluating the overall capabilities of Juniors, it is doubly important both that
the Junior present his dog in the proper manner for the breed being handled and
that the judge be cognizant of the proper presentation for that breed. It is
imperative, therefore, that the judge have prior knowledge of the breeds which
are to be presented and familiarity with the proper ways of handling those
breeds. If the Show Superintendent or Show Secretary does not furnish a list of
those breeds in the Judging Program, then the judge should request the list well
in advance of the show date. In the individual presentation of the dog the
Junior should demonstrate the ability to handle the dog as it is handled in the
breed ring, showing the dog to its best advantage in pose and in motion. During
all phases of handling the Junior's concentration should be on the dog and not
on the judge, but not to the extent that the Junior is unaware of what is taking
place in the ring. Remember, you are judging the handler, but time should be
spent looking at the dog to gain insight as to how well it is being handled.
- Is the dog
responsive to the handler? Do dog and handler work as a team?
- Does the dog
appear posed or interested at all times?
- Is the dog under
control?
- Is the dog moved
correctly to the best of its ability?
- Are the dog's
main faults being minimized?
- Do both the dog
and handler appear relaxed?
- Is the dog
presented with an apparent minimum of effort?
Knowledge of Ring
Procedure. The judge shall evaluate the ability of the Junior to follow directions, use
space wisely, and execute the requested gaiting patterns. Juniors should appear
"ring wise,'' be alert to the judging progression and be prepared for changes in
the judging routine.
Appearance and Conduct. The judge should be aware of the appearance of
both the handler and the dog. The Junior should be suitably dressed for the
occasion, wearing clothing that will not hinder or detract from the presentation
of the dog. The dog should be groomed and trimmed in the manner associated with
the breed for conformation. However, the judge should not evaluate either the
dress of the handler or the grooming of the dog, but rather that an effort has
been made. Excessive grooming of the dog in the ring to gain the judge's
attention is inappropriate and should be faulted accordingly.
The judge shall evaluate the general conduct of Juniors in the ring. Juniors
should appear prepared, confident, businesslike and attentive. They should be
courteous to both the judge and their fellow exhibitors. Juniors are expected to
handle their dogs without distracting the dogs of other competitors, and a
Junior who crowds or disturbs other dogs should be faulted. A principle of
Junior Showmanship is to afford the opportunity to learn the spirit of
competition. Winning is important but is secondary to development of
sportsmanship in competition. Judges who reward unsportsmanlike conduct or
actions, regardless of a handler's other capabilities, compromise the very
premise of Junior Showmanship.
Juniors should be alert to the needs of their dogs, realizing that the welfare
of their dogs is important. Juniors are responsible for the control of their
dogs at all times. However, Juniors who exhibit impatience or heavy-handedness
with their dogs should be penalized.
Section 9. The Judges Book.
After the final placings have been made in each class, judges must mark their
books indicating their placements. After all classes have been judged and all
placements marked, including absentees and excusals, the book must be signed and
returned to the Superintendent or Show Secretary. The judge has the sole
responsibility for his book, for its correctness and for its safekeeping. He
should take proper care in the recording of armband numbers of his winners,
seeing they are in the right place and clearly legible. The safekeeping of the
book should be entrusted to no one except him/herself.
Junior Showmanship Regulations - A Guide to Performance Events Competition for
Juniors
Section 1.
Eligibility as a Junior.
Any Junior up to the age of 18 is eligible to compete as a Junior in Performance
Events. The Junior must obtain a Junior Number. The ownership requirements are
the same as for participating in Conformation Junior Showmanship: the dog must
be owned by the Junior Handler or the Junior Handler's father, mother, brother,
sister, uncle, aunt, grandfather, or grandmother, including corresponding step
and half relations, or by a member of the Junior Handler's household.
Section 2. Classes.
The Junior will enter the dog in the class in which it would normally compete
for the event. In each of these events the dogs are scored individually on their
performance. A Junior will not receive credit for any qualifying scores in a
class in which the dog has already successfully completed a title, with the
exception of the Retriever Hunting Tests.
Section 3. Records.
The dog's score in these events will be linked to the Junior Handler's number
through the use of the Junior Certification Form. This form can be obtained from
the Show Secretary, Superintendent or Field Representative, or by contacting the
American Kennel Club. (See the end of this section for a sample.) It is the
responsibility of the Junior to have the Junior Certification Form filled out
and signed by the judge on the day of the event for any qualifying score. The
judge will retain one copy to be mailed in with his/her judge's book to the
American Kennel Club while returning the other to the Junior.
Section 4. Awards.
The American Kennel Club will acknowledge any Junior who successfully completes
a title. The Junior must have been the handler of record for all qualifying
scores leading to the title in that event. All qualifying scores and titles must
have been completed after January 1, 1999.
A.K.C. Junior Recognition Program
Since the Junior Recognition Program began in January 1999, recognizing Juniors
who obtain titles on dogs in the Companion and Performance Events, dozens of
certificates have been issued to Juniors.
The majority of certificates have been issued for dogs with titles in Obedience
and Agility. However, we have many Juniors participating and working towards
titles in all of the events, including Hunt Tests and Field Trials, Earthdog,
Lure Coursing and Herding.
The biggest shortfall we have encountered is that the completed Junior Handler
certification forms are not being received in the A.K.C. Event Records
department and therefore, the dogs' records are not being updated to indicate
that a Junior handled the dog. Many juniors who have met the criteria to receive
a certificate have not because of lost/misplaced paperwork. The A.K.C. Event
Record and Judges Education Departments now have the ability to update a dog's
record to include the junior handler's number, even after the event has been
closed out.
We strongly urge Juniors to keep records of their wins, titles, legs, etc., and
to maintain their copy of the Junior Handler Certification forms. In the event
that the original yellow form is not received by the A.K.C., we will accept a
copy of the Junior's copy.
Title certificates for dogs are processed by the A.K.C.'s computer system.
Junior Recognition certificates are processed manually, and therefore, will be
issued after the dog's certificate has been issued. If you come across a Junior
who has not received their certificate, please have them call us at (919)
816-3776. We will be happy to review the Junior's record and the dog's record to
determine which forms are missing. Junior Handler Numbers can also be assigned
immediately over the phone (during business hours) at the above phone number.
Copies of missing or late Junior Handler Certification forms can be mailed to:
A.K.C.
Event Operations
Attn: Juniors
5580 Centerview Drive
Raleigh, NC
27606
phone: (919) 816-3776
e-mail: juniors@akc.org
Supplies of blank Junior Handler Certification forms can also be obtained from
the above address or phone number.
A.K.C. Junior Showmanship Scholarship Program
The American Kennel Club is proud to offer a Junior Showmanship Scholarship
Program. The criteria for awarding the scholarships includes the following:
1) applicant's need;
2) applicant's academic achievement; and
3) applicant's involvement in the fancy.
Each applicant is
required to submit current school transcripts, as well as an essay including a
description of his or her experiences and interests in purebred dogs, including
an explanation of how the individual perceives his or her future role in the
fancy. This essay is an opportunity for you to explore the influence that
purebred dogs have had in your life to date and /or where it may lead you in the
future.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact (919) 816-3514.
Shetland Sheepdog Breed Standard
General Appearance
Preamble-- The Shetland Sheepdog, like the Collie, traces to the Border Collie of Scotland,
which, transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, longhaired breeds, was reduced to miniature
proportions. Subsequently crosses were made from time to time with Collies. This
breed now bears the same relationship in size and general appearance to the
Rough Collie as the Shetland Pony does to some of the larger breeds of horses.
Although the resemblance between the Shetland Sheepdog and the Rough Collie is
marked, there are differences which may be noted. The Shetland Sheepdog is a
small, alert, rough-coated, longhaired working dog. He must be sound, agile and
sturdy. The outline should be so symmetrical that no part appears out of
proportion to the whole. Dogs should appear masculine; bitches feminine.
Size, Proportion, Substance - The Shetland Sheepdog should stand between
13 and 16 inches at the shoulder. Note: Height is determined by a line
perpendicular to the ground from the top of the shoulder blades, the dog
standing naturally, with forelegs parallel to line of measurement.
Disqualifications-- Heights below or above the desired size range are to be
disqualified from the show ring.
In overall appearance, the body should appear moderately long as measured from
shoulder joint to ischium (rearmost extremity of the pelvic bone), but much of
this length is actually due to the proper angulation and breadth of the shoulder
and hindquarter, as the back itself should be comparatively short.
Head - The head should be refined and its shape, when viewed from top or
side, should be a long, blunt wedge tapering slightly from ears to nose.
Expression-- Contours and chiseling of the head, the shape, set and use
of ears, the placement, shape and color of the eyes combine to produce
expression. Normally the expression should be alert, gentle, intelligent and
questioning. Toward strangers the eyes should show watchfulness and reserve, but
no fear.
Eyes medium size with dark, almond-shaped rims, set somewhat obliquely in skull.
Color must be dark, with blue or merle eyes permissible in blue merles only. Faults-- Light, round, large or too small. Prominent haws. Ears small and
flexible, placed high, carried three-fourths erect, with tips breaking forward. When in repose the ears fold lengthwise and are thrown back into the frill. Faults-- Set too low. Hound, prick, bat, twisted ears. Leather too thick or too
thin.
Skull and Muzzle - Top of skull should be flat, showing no prominence at
nuchal crest (the top of the occiput). Cheeks should be flat and should merge
smoothly into a well-rounded muzzle. Skull and muzzle should be of equal length,
balance point being inner corner of eye. In profile the top line of skull should
parallel the top line of muzzle, but on a higher plane due to the presence of a
slight but definite stop. Jaws clean and powerful. The deep, well-developed
underjaw, rounded at chin, should extend to base of nostril. Nose must be black.
Lips tight. Upper and lower lips must meet and fit smoothly together all the way
around. Teeth level and evenly spaced. Scissors bite.
Faults-- Two-angled head. Too prominent stop, or no stop. Overfill below,
between, or above eyes. Prominent nuchal crest. Domed skull. Prominent
cheekbones. Snipy muzzle. Short, receding, or shallow underjaw, lacking breadth
and depth. Overshot or undershot, missing or crooked teeth. Teeth visible when
mouth is closed.
Neck, Topline, Body - Neck should be muscular, arched, and of sufficient length to carry the head
proudly. Faults-- Too short and thick.
Back should be level and strongly muscled. Chest should be deep, the brisket
reaching to point of elbow. The ribs should be well sprung, but flattened at
their lower half to allow free play of the foreleg and shoulder. Abdomen
moderately tucked up. Faults-- Back too long, too short, swayed or roached.
Barrel ribs. Slab-side. Chest narrow and/or too shallow. There should be a
slight arch at the loins, and the croup should slope gradually to the rear. The
hipbone (pelvis) should be set at a 30-degree angle to the spine. Faults--
Croup higher than withers. Croup too straight or too steep.
The tail should be sufficiently long so that when it is laid along the back edge
of the hind legs the last vertebra will reach the hock joint. Carriage of tail
at rest is straight down or in a slight upward curve. When the dog is alert the
tail is normally lifted, but it should not be curved forward over the back. Faults--
Too short. Twisted at end.
Forequarters - From the withers, the shoulder blades should slope at a
45-degree angle forward and downward to the shoulder joints. At the withers they
are separated only by the vertebra, but they must slope outward sufficiently to
accommodate the desired spring of rib. The upper arm should join the shoulder
blade at as nearly as possible a right angle. Elbow joint should be equidistant
from the ground and from the withers. Forelegs straight viewed from all angles,
muscular and clean, and of strong bone. Pasterns very strong, sinewy and
flexible. Dewclaws may be removed. Faults-- Insufficient angulation between
shoulder and upper arm. Upper arm too short. Lack of outward slope of shoulders.
Loose shoulders. Turning in or out of elbows. Crooked legs. Light bone.
Feet should be oval and compact with the toes well arched and fitting tightly
together. Pads deep and tough, nails hard and strong. Faults-- Feet turning
in or out. Splay feet. Hare feet. Cat feet.
Hindquarters - The thigh should be broad and muscular. The thighbone
should be set into the pelvis at a right angle corresponding to the angle of the
shoulder blade and upper arm. Stifle bones join the thighbone and should be
distinctly angled at the stifle joint. The overall length of the stifle should
at least equal the length of the thighbone, and preferably should slightly
exceed it. Hock joint should be clean-cut, angular, sinewy, with good bone and
strong ligamentation. The hock (metatarsus) should be short and straight viewed
from all angles. Dewclaws should be removed. Faults-- Narrow thighs.
Cow-hocks. Hocks turning out. Poorly defined hock joint.
Feet as in forequarters.
Coat - The coat should be double, the outer coat consisting of long,
straight, harsh hair; the undercoat short, furry, and so dense as to give the
entire coat its "standoff" quality. The hair on face, tips of ears and feet
should be smooth. Mane and frill should be abundant, and particularly impressive
in males. The forelegs well feathered, the hind legs heavily so, but smooth
below the hock joint. Hair on tail profuse. Note: Excess-hair on ears, feet, and
on hocks may be trimmed for the show ring. Faults-- Coat short or flat, in
whole or in part; wavy, curly, soft or silky. Lack of undercoat. Smooth-coated
specimens.
Color - Black, blue merle, and sable (ranging from golden through
mahogany); marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan. Faults--
Rustiness in a black or a blue coat. Washed-out or degenerate colors, such as
pale sable and faded blue. Self-color in the case of blue merle, that is,
without any merling or mottling and generally appearing as a faded or dilute
tri-color. Conspicuous white body spots. Specimens with more than 50 percent
white shall be so severely penalized as to effectively eliminate them from
competition. Disqualification-- Brindle.
Gait - The trotting gait of the Shetland Sheepdog should denote
effortless speed and smoothness. There should be no jerkiness, nor stiff,
stilted, up-and-down movement. The drive should be from the rear, true and
straight, dependent upon correct angulation, musculation, and ligamentation of
the entire hindquarter, thus allowing the dog to reach well under his body with
his hind foot and propel himself forward. Reach of stride of the foreleg is
dependent upon correct angulation, musculation and ligamentation of the
forequarters, together with correct width of chest and construction of rib cage.
The foot should be lifted only enough to clear the ground as the leg swings
forward. Viewed from the front, both forelegs and hindlegs should move forward
almost perpendicular to ground at the walk, slanting a little inward at a slow
trot, until at a swift trot the feet are brought so far inward toward center
line of body that the tracks left show two parallel lines of footprints actually
touching a center line at their inner edges. There should be no crossing of the
feet nor throwing of the weight from side to side.
Faults-- Stiff, short steps, with a choppy, jerky movement. Mincing steps,
with a hopping up and down, or a balancing of weight from side to side (often
erroneously admired as a "dancing gait" but permissible in young puppies).
Lifting of front feet in hackney-like action, resulting in loss of speed and
energy. Pacing gait.
Temperament - The Shetland Sheepdog is intensely loyal, affectionate, and
responsive to his owner. However, he may be reserved toward strangers but not to
the point of showing fear or cringing in the ring. Faults-- Shyness,
timidity, or nervousness. Stubbornness, snappiness, or ill temper.
Scale of Points
General
Appearance |
|
|
Symmetry |
10 |
|
Temperament |
10 |
|
Coat |
5 |
25 |
Head |
|
|
Skull
and stop |
5 |
|
Muzzle |
5 |
|
Eyes,
ears and expression |
10 |
20 |
Body |
|
|
Neck
and back |
5 |
|
Chest,
ribs and brisket |
10 |
|
Loin,
croup and tail |
5 |
20 |
Forequarters |
|
|
Shoulder |
10 |
|
Forelegs and feet |
5 |
15 |
Hindquarters |
|
|
Hip,
thigh and stifle |
10 |
|
Hocks
and feet |
5 |
15 |
Gait |
|
|
Gait--smoothness and lack of wasted
motion when trotting |
5 |
5 |
Total |
|
100 |
Disqualifications
· Heights below or above the desired size range, i.e., 13-16 inches
· Brindle
color.
Approved
May 12, 1959
2006
APPLICATION FOR SPONSORSHIP TO ATTEND EITHER WESTMINSTER OR AKC EUKANUBA
INVITATIONAL
Rules:
1. The A.S.S.A. will provide three (3) $500 sponsorships to the top ranked
Open handlers (Junior, Intermediate, or Senior) - one from each of the
three A.S.S.A. geographic zones (East, Central, and West) based on the junior
showmanship statistics compiled for the Junior News and Views website (http://www.jrnewsandviews.com/herdingstats.htm#SHTLND)
as of October 11, 2005 for Eukanuba and as of December 1, 2005 for Westminster.
|