How I got started in Conformation (AKC)

Each fancier has a different story about their experience and how they got into the ring. For many of us, the act of walking into the ring at a dog show was something we never even thought we would do. Other folks literally grew up in the fancy, for them getting in the ring was a natural progression. I’m new to conformation and have been showing in AKC shows since 2013. I started doing this for the first time in my forties with a 1-year-old female Saint Bernard with a lively personality and great potential. While I’m certainly not a “professional handler", in this short time I’ve gotten to the point where I’m no longer intimidated by the ring and I truly enjoy showing.

My very first time in the ring, my lovely Saint Bernard Miss Lola Mae and I literally bounced off each other and wandered all around the ring. We tried, and tried, to figure out what was expected of us, where to go, and even how to stand. Despite my ability to train her to behave, not to mess in the house and how to walk on a leash, this was a whole new level for both of us. We would have to connect at a deeper level, learn new behaviors and become one. The judge at this first specialty show was very kind and patient with us. No one in the crowd laughed, and when we came out of the ring many folks offered support, helped us with kind pointers and shared their secrets. From that show on, I was hooked! 

Once I decided that I was going to exhibit, I sought ways to learn what to do. There is quite a lot to showing dogs with many subtle nuances that are difficult to coordinate, so much to learn and only time can smooth the process. The best thing I did to transition from pet owner to handling in the ring was a combination of practice, training, asking questions, listening, and practicing some more.

There is much more to the ring than just walking in a circle. The handler and exhibited specimen must communicate on many levels. The two must move as one and seamlessly transition in and out of several behavioral routines. Prior to getting in the ring the dog must be groomed, dressed, and made to stand out from the crowd. The handler too must look the as well. These activities are things that all fanciers can relate to and it lends itself to something special. There is another dimension to all of this in the fellowship to which this fancy lends itself. I’ve enjoyed the benefit of meeting folks who will be a meaningful part of my life for years to come. These folks, who are joined by a common passion and with specific traits all share a special commonality. We all have a burning desire to not only get in the ring, but to compete. We compete and it is a good, friendly and fun competition.

Matt Agnese

Owner / Handler of Ch. Kings Mill Hemie of Fuzzy Bear “Lola Mae” CGC