Lisa Elk Grove, CA 5/25/2012 3:57:38 PM From what I understand many dog shows are getting smaller and smaller. I think the author missed an opportunity to encourage new blood. This kids dog may or may not be Champion material but they want to show. I think suggesting handling classes would have been a good start verses suggest a pro handler. I am very new to showing and my current dog may not meet the breed standard in all ways but I am having a great deal of fun. My next dog will be more correct but right now I am learning a great deal with my current dog. Not every dog is show quality but they can still teach you the ropes.