I blindly purchased my first show dog without doing much research. I have since learned how important it is to really know the character of the breeder from whom you buy your first dog. I have, since that time, heard so many stories about people who attempted to show their first dog but who dismayed to discover that their expensive puppy was not up to show standards. As for me, I was very lucky: My first was within the standard.

Well before I could show him, I had much to learn. So off I went to handling classes, twice a week. I also attended dog shows to video tape people showing Maltese. I got alot of advise from many different people and some of them tried to scare me into believing that I should not show him myself because he had no chance of even placing unless shown by a professional handler. But how could I send my pride and joy off to someone he doesn't know? Will they play with him? Will they coop him up in a small cage between training sessions and ignore him? I had so many fears of the unknown that I decided to do it myself, though since then I have learned that there are many wonderful handlers whom I could trust. But then, I also found out how much fun it is to show yourself

After Taylor and I got some confidence we attended some matches. He did well with a group 3 and group 2. It was time to enter our first show. Luckily for me I met a long time owner/breeder/handler who was willing to teach me the ropes. A week before our first show I met with my new mentor. She gave me a crash course in grooming and showing.

So off to the show we went. I was very nervous when I saw all the other Maltese so beautifully groomed and ready to go. I wondered how could I compete, as Taylor's coat was not grown to the ground like the others' coats. And look at those perfect topknots compared to mine… Yikes! Well, into the ring we went, and to our surprise we won Best of Breed and a three point major! Of course, we had no real idea what a major was! Afterwards, we met the other Maltese people who were very helpful and willing to give me tips.

I personally have not experienced any of the negative things that I had heard a lot of newcomer's encounter. I found just the opposite to be true. Most people are very willing to help and share information. For example I still can't do a topknot quite right, but my fellow Maltese exhibitors often take the time to help me, even when they are my competition!

I continued to show Taylor and he continued to win. In fact, he finished his championship within three months. During the whole time we continued to learn and get help from our mentor, as well as from others around the ring. What a thrill to finish my first dog. I am so glad I decided to it myself! So, go ahead give it a shot!