[Bob & Linda]

Having recently shown at a Regional Sieger Show and winning NWRYS '05 with Naja Earl Antonius and this was my first ever attempt, I can tell you first hand as a newbie to handling. Shoes is dependant on conditions; some where athletic spikes if the grass is wet, myself a good soled hiking tennis shoe. Leash, nothing less than an 8' leash. I attempted to use a 6', had some very caring top handlers switch me to 8' and that made a big difference. Practice daily presenting teeth, I saw many dogs excused because the handler could not present them properly. You need a small group to assist with the running and baiting. Find what works best for attracting your dog. Naja loves the ball, but she plays with the ball dail. A squeeky toy my friends had made her crazy with drive...and she is hyped up without anything. Use the whole ring when showing, a gait the dog at the pace that best shows the dog, for Naja it is full speed, right before she breaks to a run...she is fully extended and driving hard. Do not get close to others in the ring........that is a no-no. When hooking to the fur saver, dead ring it, not on choke. I leave my dog(s) crated until the class before is just half way through. Bathroom break for us both, sip of water, a little ball play and go in. I would like to say Thank You for the many supporters that assisted me with direction, it was truly heart felt.

Bob