Junior Showmanship

Juniors are extremely important to the world of dog sports and responsible dog ownership. Junior Showmanship introduces 4-H'ers to the exciting and competive world of dog shows. 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. Dogs must meet certain guidelines to be able to compete.

4-H Paws N Pals introduces juniors to the world of dog shows and dog handling. 4-H'ers will have the opportunity to develop their handling skills, learn about good sportsmanship, learn about dogs, and learn about dog shows. Junior Showmanship is open to 4-H'ers 9 to 18 years old. Juniors are divided into Novice and Open classes. The Novice class is for children who, at the time entries close, have not won three first-place awards in a Novice class at a licensed or member dog show. The Novice class allows participants to gain experience and confidence apart from the more experienced Juniors. The Open class is for children having three or more first-place wins. Novice class participants are encouraged to watch the Juniors for techniques in handling skills. Classes are further divided into age groups: Juniors 9 to 11 years old, Intermediates 12 to 14 years old, and Seniors 15 to 18 years old.

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.

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. Watch the following video to see highlights of the 2008 World Junior Handling Final: