Handling

What Is Handling?

Handling is the skill & art of presentation of a dog that is taken into the show ring for the judges assessment where basic moves have been designed to test the ability of the handler in the show ring.

Handling differs from Showing where the dog is being assessed against the Kennel Club breed standard. A person who takes a dog into the show ring is called a handler.

The handler should aim to become 'invisible' and your dog should always be in the forefront.  The handler should try to show off all the good points of the dog and minimise any faults, good lines are required with neat corners. If exaggerated handling styles are used, this will draw the judges attention away from your dog.

Movements and corrections whilst handling your dog should be subtle; your goal is to give the impression of your dog showing itself.

Can Any Dog Take Part?

Dogs must be on the Kennel Club Breed Register to compete in a YKC handling competition at a Championship or Open show and they must also be entered in a Breed class before members can enter the YKC Handling competition.

Dogs on other Kennel Club Registers can enter Handling classes at YKC Activity Weekends.

If you decide that Handling is the activity for you and your dog, your next step is to receive some expert training, for a list of local ring craft training clubs, call 0844 4633 980 ext. 212 or visit the Find a Club page

How Do I Compete?

Download a list of YKC Handling Qualifiers for details of clubs that hold classes which qualify members for the YKC ring at Crufts. Please also read the YKC Handling Rules & Regulations. The first place in each age group will qualify for Crufts 2012.

YKC 2011 Handling Qualifier Results

The Junior Handling Association is another organisation that teaches youngsters the art of handling. If you would like further information about the JHA please call Mrs Cartledge on 01344 424 144.

Handling Points Badge

You can also collect points at shows to apply for a Handling Badge from the YKC. To do this you need to apply for a Showing Points Book to keep a list of your points. You can collect points at Championship/Open/Limited and Companion Shows. Once you have gained 150 points in your points book you can then apply for your Handling Badge (details can be found in the Points Book). To request a FREE Points Book call the YKC office on 020 7518 1030 or email the YKC Office

Important Information

The YKC will now only accept YKC qualifiers and will no longer be able to accept Junior Handling Association qualifiers from Open and Championship Shows.  No show will therefore be allowed to qualify more than one winner in each age group per day.

This change will become effective for shows during 2011 qualifying for Crufts 2012.