Journalist Josh Dean tells the story of a loveable Australian Shepherd, Jack, on his novice tour through the exciting world of professional dog showing, following Jack from his first competitions in local school gymnasiums all the way to the great granddaddy of them all, the Westminster Dog Show. A veteran journalist, Dean shines a warm, steady light on the trials that Jack and his plucky, dedicated owners come to face, and uses their story to explore the larger histories of dog shows themselves; the fascinating and sometimes bizarre history of purebred dogs; and our complex, heartfelt relationships to the pets we grow to love. For dog lovers, readers of Marley & Me, Merle’s Door, and Oogy, and fans of Best in Show, Dean’s Show Dog is an irresistible instant classic.

The Blue-Ribbon source for showing your dog. Showing your dog can be great fun! You know your dog has what it takes to be a champion, but how do you get started? Inside is everything you need to know about the rewarding world of the dog show circuit. This easy-to-read guide will help you discover whether the show ring is the right place for you and your dog, learn the basics of training, and develop the skills for successful showing. In the end, both you and your dog will be ready to succeed in the show ring! "A comprehensive how-to manual that encompasses every level of experience." —Corky Vroom, president, Professional Handlers' Association "Masterfully written, offering insight and tips for both aspiring and experienced dog show enthusiasts. By far the most complete book on the market." —Susand Bulanda, senior conformation judge, UKC "Demystifies the sport of dogs without erasing the wondrous mystique of the art, and mentors the novice through the world of dog shows." —Lilian S. Barber, exhibitor, breeder, and AKC judge "If you've ever wondered about dog shows, shown a dog, or wanted to try it, this book is tailor-made for you." — Darlene Arden, author, The Irrepressible Toy Dog

Competing at dog shows is an excellent way for the family - both young and old alike - to enjoy a hobby together. Many people enter this sport first with a family pet as a fun day out and then move on to more serious competition at championship level. The ultimate goal for most newcomers is to qualify for Crufts and perhaps even win the much coveted Best in Show award. This book takes you step by step through the process of what is required to enjoy showing a dog. It will tell you: - How to choose a good quality pedigree puppy and understand its health requirements - How to train and prepare from day one through to that first dog show - How to enter a show and what to expect - Where to go and when at the dog show, and what to do in the show ring - What clubs, committees and support are available for the novice exhibitor - How to qualify for Crufts and what to expect upon arriving at the World's Greatest Dog Show - What the next step is and whether to purchase another dog, breed a litter or even train to be a judge. Contents: Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. Starting out; 2. Learning to Show 3. Grooming and Presentation; 4. Entering a Show; 5. Travelling with Dogs; 6. The Day of the Show; 7. Rules and Etiquette; 8. Awards and Prizes; 9. Major Champonship Shows; 10. What Next?; The Rainbow Bridge; Glossary; Useful Information; Index.

This fantastic handbook on rearing dogs contains chapters on every aspect of the subject from selecting and breeding to training for exhibition. Although old, it contains a wealth of timeless information that will be of as much use to modern dog owners as it was when first published. Highly recommended for all owners of dogs and not to be missed by collectors of vintage literature of this ilk. Contents include: "Starting in Dogs by T. M. Corbett", "Kennelling", "Feeding", "Diet Table, Dogs and Puppies", "Selecting a Stud Dog", "Whelping and Rearing". "Important Factors to Success", "How to Show a Dog By J. W. H. Beynon, Judge", "How to Train a Dog By Barbara Woodhead", "How to Train a Dog (with illustrations)", etc. Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. It is with this in mind that we are republishing this volume now in a modern, high-quality edition complete with the original text and artwork.

Back by popular demand the only breeding book endorsed by top breeders "There are many books on breeding dogs, but Ann's book is so on-target and comprehensive that it has become a bible among successful breeders. The news that Howell is making this modern classic available again is to the benefit of both new and future generations of aspiring breeders." -- From the new Foreword by Wendell J. Sammet, The American Kennel Club's first Breeder of the Year (2002) The bible of quality dog breeding, The Joy of Breeding Your Own Show Dog is a must-have for novice and veteran breeders alike, covering everything from developing a viable breeding program to genetics to whelping, raising, and socializing puppies. Written in easy-to-understand language by renowned dog breeder Ann Seranne, this classic takes you step by step through the entire process of breeding a successful litter, from the moment of conception to a dog's first show. You'll see how to select a method of breeding, evaluate your own breeding stock and the potential of a litter, avoid the pitfalls of whelping, and properly care for the litter until the puppies are ready to go to their new homes. Ann Seranne's deep love of dogs, her vast knowledge, and her expertise make this the only guide you will ever need to become a successful breeder.