Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, please email them to Trentbridge Ringcraft and we will endeavour to answer them for you. We will also post some of the most frequently asked questions here so please let us know if you would like us to add any others.

What is Ringcraft?
Why should I attend Ringcraft with my dog?
How can I enter a dog show?
What is the difference between Open and Championship Shows?
Can I attend Trentbridge Ringcraft Club with a non-pedigree dog?

Q: What is Ringcraft?

A: Ringcraft is training both handler and dog ready for the show ring. This will involve the handler 'stacking' their dog ready for the trainer to check his/her conformation and then moving the dog. The training represents as closely as possible what to expect should you enter a dog show.

Q: Why should I attend Ringcraft with my dog?

A: Ringcraft is the best way to simulate show experience and will help both handler and dog to gain confidence and skill. At Trentbridge Ringcraft we also have puppy socialisation sessions at the beginning of the night to help your pup gain the confidence he/she needs and handling classes for those people who want to try something different or just want to strengthen their bond with their dog.

Q: How can I enter a dog show?

A: Show schedules and entry forms will be available at our training sessions, you can also find them at other shows or many shows are now using online entry systems. For these you can enter via http://www.dog.biz/ or http://www.fossedata.co.uk/

Q: What is the difference between Open and Championship Shows?

A: All types of dog show will involve your dog being assessed against his/her breed standard.

Open - Some people prefer to start out on their show career by entering general Open Shows that schedule classes for many different breeds of dog. These shows are run by general canine societies and are a good way of gaining show experience for new exhibitors. There are many of these shows held throughout the year and in general the entry fees are much lower than for Championship shows.

Championship - These are the most prestigious shows and on average cost around £21 to enter. For most breeds a placing of 1st, 2nd or 3rd at a Championship show will gain you qualification to enter CRUFTS. If your dog is awarded Best Dog or Best Bitch within their breed they will be awarded a Kennel Club Challenge Certificate (CC or ticket as they are commonly known).

CC's are the very highest show award a dog can gain and by winning three CC's under three separate judges, a dog is entitled to be known as a Champion, or in the case of a Gundog or a Border Collie, a Show Champion.

Q: Can I attend Trenbridge Ringcraft with a non-pedigree dog?

A: Unfortunately ringcraft training is only available for KC registered pedegree dogs, however throughout the year we may run training for the Kennel Club Good Citizen Award's and non-pedigree dogs are welcome to attend this training. Dates of future courses will be posted as and when they are booked.

Trentbridge Ringcraft Club