Junior Handling. What picture do you see? Probably that cute kid in the ring with the dog at the end of a lead. But is that all? In order for our sport of dogs and Dog Shows to continue to the next generation it needs to involve more than just the picture in the ring.

Junior Handlers are children from 4 years to 17 years of age. They have a love of dogs and want to be part of the dog world.

All Breed Shows in Nova Scotia offer Junior Handling Competition on one or both days of their shows in conformation and / or obedience. Juniors participate at a scheduled time which is usually over the lunch hour.

If a child doesn't have a registered purebred dog or they don't have their dog entered in that show, they may arrange to borrow a show dog from a friend or breeder entered. This needs to be done prior to 11 am at most shows on the day of the show.

Maybe they arranged it long before and have been able to practice with that dog or maybe they meet the dog for the first time an hour before the competition. In any case it is a step in the right direction.

But besides what happens at the show sites, Juniors are actively learning more about the sport of pure bred dogs by attending workshops, seminars and gatherings arranged for Juniors. Often former Juniors help out at these events to coach kids on handling dogs.Sometimes vets come to events to talk to the kids about dogs and answer their questions.

Breeders, parents and friends of Junior Handling are needed to help out. Clubs that have Specialty Shows have given Juniors presentations on their breed with coaching on grooming and handling. More such help is needed in the future with owners and breeders coming forward to volunteer their time and knowledge to educate the youngsters who will take over our sport in the next decade.

Come out and join the fun.

Linda Martin
Zone 1b - CKC Junior Handling Rep