Does your dog back off judges? Lack pizzazz? Doesn't enjoy himself in the ring? Then I can probably help.

It doesn't matter how good your dog is, if he doesn't have that extra 'oomph' or sparkle, then he may never fulfil his potential. If he lacks confidence or is bothered by the attention of judges he won't be showing himself off to advantage nor, importantly, will he be enjoying the experience.

Some dogs don't cooperate in the ring, or they play up. Sometimes that's a sign of the dog not coping, sometimes it's the dog not understanding. Worse, some dogs are pushed so far they show aggression. That doesn't necessarily mean they are 'bad temperaments' it just means they are being pushed too far. Some dogs may simply not care enough to bother to show!

Ringcraft classes might be able to help, but not all ringcraft class trainers have the time or expertise to help with training or behaviour problems. Many actually cause the problems, or make them worse, through rough handling or inexpert 'trainers' and bad organisation with overcrowded halls which allow aggressive dogs to intimidate or frighten puppies.

Conventional puppy or obedience classes in most cases can often help, if you can persuade the trainers a stand is just a valid exercise to teach as a sit! But not many obedience or pet dog trainers have a good understanding of what is needed for the showring, or worse, from your point of view, they sometimes consider it a waste of time or unimportant.

I have trained, handled and campaigned two champions, both of whom competed in obedience and lived in the house as companion dogs, so I can offer advice which takes into account what you need for the showring, as well as the 'real world' and the home. I own the first champion to be clicker trained from a puppy. I have helped aggressive dogs to learn to accept handling. Through kind and fair methods, not coercion and force.

I can't make your dog a better specimen, and I may not know the finer points of handling your specific breed in the ring, but I can help you introduce a little more style, confidence and swagger into your dog's performance, whatever the breed; whatever the temperament. Whether you want give him that extra 'something' that might make the difference between a champion and an also-ran or simply want your dog to enjoy his day out more, some motivation and training can only improve his chances!

The Teamwork Training approach to training dogs places great emphasis on the dog's mental well being. The dog's enjoyment and willing participation in the showing experience is viewed as a high priority.

I offer one to one help, ringcraft classes or domestic training classes, including some specifically aimed at show dogs so they can learn not just what they need for the showring, but also training for the 'real world'. Teamwork Training is Kennel Club listed so we can work towards the Kennel Club Good Citizen awards. Show off! 'troubleshooting' day courses are held regualrly.

One to one showring training
One to one showring training is normally bookable by the hour and takes place in a mutually convenient place. We can start off in your own home, progressing to outside if appropriate, or we can start off in a neutral, outdoor environment. I can book a hall if wanted, but that will cost extra. It may be possible to meet at shows for training in the show environment.

Show ring training/troubleshooting (approx one hour) £30.00
Cost of hall if required £7.00 per hour
Traveling costs (if more than 20 minutes drive; agreed in advance) 20p per mile