The American Shetland Sheepdog Association

[1] All information in Tabs 1-9 and Tab 13 was compiled from the American Kennel Club website – http://www.akc.org; Tab 12 information was compiled by AS.S.A. Historian Pat Ferrell.

            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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

17. How old must you be to be eligible to apply as a Junior Showmanship Only Judge?

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.

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.

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.

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:

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:

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

2006 APPLICATION FOR SPONSORSHIP TO ATTEND EITHER WESTMINSTER OR AKC EUKANUBA INVITATIONAL

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.