Want to be a RL Junior Handler?

Shibagirl · July 2011

I decided to make this post since there are people out there that would like to be a junior handler, but either don't know how to get into it or cannot own dogs. Here's the basic rules to being a junior in the AKC: - You will first need to get a Junior handler's number, which will be given to you after signing up on the AKC's website under the Juniors section. - You will need to be between the ages of 9 and 18 years of age. - You will need to have a dog that is registered in the AKC that is either owned/co-owned by you or a relative of yours. * Don't have a registered dog, but have a dog that is a registered breed of the AKC? Not a problem! There's something called a PAL/ILP registration for dogs that are an AKC registered breed, but not able to be registered. * Not able to get an AKC registered dog? - Contact breeders (I find email the easiest way to do this) and talk to them about co-owning a dog. You would not be required to keep this dog at your house or pay for it in any way. You'll be amazed how willing breeders are to do this. They are more than happy to help people interested in handling. - You will need a show outfit- pretty much anything professional looking. Skirts are preferred for girls, but not required. (In fact, I placed first in my first Juniors competition in brown slacks.) You can find these things at consignment and thrift shops even. (I actually think of those places the best to find cheap, quality show outfits.) - You will need a way to get to shows- If you can't be driven to a show, you might be able to go with a breeder or professional handler as long as you're able to help them out a little. Other Things The Financial Side Many people this day and age would not be able to afford the entry fees or transportation. Don't worry if you can't! There are people who will help. -Breeders- if you're serious about getting into a certain breed, then a breeder may help you with entry fees and transportation. They're always more than willing to help kids who are interested in shows. -Professional handlers- They usually take in juniors as apprentices. You would usually assist them in return for them taking you to a show. -Supportive family members/family friends- for me, it's my grandparents. I wouldn't be where I am today without them taking me to show and helping pay for entry fees. This is pretty much anyone who supports you and someone you and your family trust. If you have any other questions, don't be afraid to give me a message anytime!

Berton · July 2011

NewfGirl wrote:

 - You will need to have a dog that is registered in the AKC that is either owned/co-owned by you or a relative of yours.

This is false... My cousins the junior handler often show dogs with permission that they're parents are handling, the same with the Junior they've "adopted"

Finster2 · July 2011

Thank you so much for posting this! It's awesome, ;D

Shibagirl · August 2011

Wheaton wrote:

NewfGirl wrote:

 - You will need to have a dog that is registered in the AKC that is either owned/co-owned by you or a relative of yours. 

 This is false... My cousins the junior handler often show dogs with permission that they're parents are handling, the same with the Junior they've "adopted"

Well technically in the AKC it's not legal and you can get in big trouble for it if they find out. I'd rather not take that chance lol. What registry do they show under? Because it can be different for different registries. Here's the exact quote from the AKC website about that: 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. Many times junior showmanship classes are free (if the dog is entered in regular classes) or are offered at the reduced rate. I probably should have also put in the part about a person in the same household can own the dog too.

Howdy, Stranger!

Want to be a RL Junior Handler?

Comments