Showmanship  helps 4-H members develop skills and knowledge in dog show handling. It allows 4-H members to learn about breeds of dogs and general grooming responsibilities. In showmanship the judge evaluates the handler’s knowledge, skill, effort, and experience.

Showmanship will be evaluated on the following five basic areas:

1. Proper breed presentation

2. Ring procedure

3. Knowledge

4. Grooming of dog

5. 4-H’ers appearance and conduct

Leads & Treats

There are several types of showmanship leads. They come in many styles, sizes, weights, and colors. Some include:

• Loop lead – this type has a loop at the end that slips over the dogs head. Caution should be used when showing with this lead, so that it does not slip off the dog’s head.

• Martingale – this type has an additional loop at the end of the first loop and the dog’s head is placed between the two loops. This allows the handler to have more control with the dog.

• Slip collar with a short leash/lead – this type is like those sometimes used in obedience but with a lead of four feet or less. The size of links should be appropriately matched to the size of the dog. It is appropriate for beginning and/or large and/or strong dogs to be shown with a slip collar.

Links to leashes

• Cherrybrook

• Amazon

Baiting: You can use treats in the ring!