The Italian Greyhound Club

from Helen Rishworth

An interesting debate has been brought to the forefront of the junior handling world in recent weeks addressing the concerns surrounding the effects of judging attitudes upon the standard of handling. To generalise, there are two ‘approaches’ towards judging handling; either focusing upon a handler’s ability to perform pattern work with their charge, or assessing the less tangible aspects of handling such as a handler’s empathy with their exhibit. The opinions of these two schools of thought are being discussed elsewhere in the dog papers, however, such ideas made me think about handling in the breed ring.

The YKC Stakes Final at Crufts 2012 – some of the best junior handlers in the country demonstrating their handling skills in the main arena at Crufts earlier this year

Behind successful ‘teams’ there is always a strong bond between the dog and their handler: one need only watch some of the groups, for example, to see this in practice. A working rapport is often founded upon both dog and handler being at one with another. Just as handlers’ nerves travel down the show-lead so does confidence and such confidence in a handler is sourced from an understanding of their charge. When a dog and their handler are ‘connected’ so to speak, not only is the exhibit’s overall presentation enhanced but competing inside the ring is made more fun for the dog; they are working to please their master.

As many of us will know, Italian Greyhounds are not the easiest breed to train for the show ring hence why understanding your IG before and during training is so vital. Training an IG to stack and move correctly on a show-lead (the latter is a particular tricky one to master as puppies are often simply too excited to listen or the feeling of a show-lead behind the ears causes them to well and truly put the brakes on) usually takes a lot of time, lots of patience and plenty of praise. We want our dogs to enjoy showing not dread it every time you get the show-lead out, so all the practices must remain fun exercises throughout.

The time it takes an IG to ‘pick up the ropes’ varies: some catch on incredibly quickly whilst others take longer. I have known puppies who have entered the show ring and performed like true professionals despite having minimal training, whilst there are other dogs that only begin to truly settle in the ring once they enter the adult classes. The key thing to remember is that each IG (like in all breeds) is different and whilst one dog may respond to one approach another may completely resist it.

Returning to the current junior handling debate, a major concern is that handlers are becoming too similiar and robotic; that emphasis is too heavily placed upon performing an accurate triangle rather than getting the most out of the dogs. Handling must be influenced by, and respond to, the dogs. If one handles in too rigid a manner, never varying techniques between one dog and another, rough justice is done to the dog. Corresponding to each IG’s individual personality, handling approaches must be flexible in order to respond to each dog’s needs. Remember to handle in a way that suits and complements your dog and not simply because it is what everyone else is doing!

Showing your IG is an opportunity to work your dog, understanding what makes them tick and anticipating how your dog will respond. No matter how long it takes to perfect the presentation of your IG, never give up. Keep positive, be patient and when the penny finally drops, there will be nothing more satisfying than entering that show ring and appreciating that bond which has built up between you and your dog during training. Showing and handling should be a joy not a chore. When an understanding is established between you and your IG, the enjoyment from the relationship between man and his best friend will be simply wonderful!