The official term…
The official term for dog shows is conformation — as in, the act of conforming or producing conformity. While a dog show may look like a beauty pageant, it’s not: Dogs are not being compared to each other; they’re being measured by how closely they conform to the standard of their particular breed. Why? Because the closer a dog’s appearance is to the breed’s standard, the better that dog’s ability will be to produce puppies that meet the standard. It’s also the reason why mixed breeds and spayed or neutered purebreds are ineligible to compete.
A conformation class will prepare you…
A conformation class will prepare you and your dog for your first experience – and for your best chances at winning. In addition, your dog should know basic behavior like how to walk on a leash on your left side and how to stack. He should also be very comfortable around other dogs. On top of taking classes, we encourage you to visit dog parks to practice his socialization skills. Finally, before your first show, your pet should be well-groomed—think trimmed nails, tangle-free fur, and no dirt.
This class teaches you/the handler how to show the dog to its best advantage. The class level ranges from beginners to the most advanced. Class instruction is geared to the individual needs of the students.
We are teaching you how to show your dog and do not evaluate the quality of the dog. Even if you don’t have a show quality dog at this time but want to learn how to show we will work with you and the dog you currently have.
MDKC offers a large indoor ring with rubber non slip flooring in a climate controlled building. There are mirrors along 3 of the walls so the handlers can see how their dogs look. We also have fenced in outdoor facilities to practice showing dogs in the grass.
For more information:
Contact INSTRUCTOR Ron Webb at 301-799-9199 or stoneshep@hotmail.com
Schedule:
- Ongoing Sessions
- All Levels – Mondays at 7:30 – 8:30pm (no class on 1st Monday of each month)
Tuition: Call for Price
All MD regulations for COVID-19 will be followed to keep everyone safe.
Location: Washington County Ag. Ed. Center, Rt 65 Sharpsburg Pike. Classes are either outside in a totally fenced in area or in a climate controlled building with full matting. More than 1 Dog per Handler welcomed at no extra cost.