Dog Show Tips with Will Alexander

After one of my podcasts, a question or query was sent to me asking that I clear up certain topics for the “B-list” exhibitors. “B-list” exhibitors? I’m not really sure what that means? Is it meant as a title for exhibitors that are not as successful as some? Is it meant for those exhibitors that don’t attend as many shows as an “A-list” exhibitor? So being the diligent researcher I am, I asked Chat GPT.

Chat GPT, what is a “B-list” exhibitor at a dog show?

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A “B-list” exhibitor at dog shows typically refers to someone who is not a top-tier or highly ranked exhibitor in the competitive dog show world. The term “B-list” is borrowed from the entertainment industry, where it refers to celebrities who are not as famous as the “A-list” stars but are still well known or respected in their field.

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In the context of dog shows, a “B-List” exhibitor might not consistently show the top winning dogs or may not have the same level of recognition or success as the “A-list” handlers (those who regularly win major competitions or championships). However, they could still be highly skilled and have competitive dogs. Essentially, the “B-List” exhibitor is an established, but not elite, figure in the world of dog showing.

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Well, let us take another look at it, this time from a different angle.

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I believe there are three stages to an exhibitor’s career.

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Stage one, non-competitive, about ninety percent start at this point, ten percent may have lady luck shining on them or just have a natural ability, I have come across such people and always show my jealous hand. In most cases, lack of knowledge combined with the quality of your dog are the main reasons for the early lack of success.

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Stage two, becoming competitive, as knowledge and experience increases as does the competitive level.

 

During this stage one must learn to be realistic and to keep things in perspective. Taking the time to learn your breed, its history and its function. Becoming aware how competitive your dog REALLY is helps you learn the other two lessons from this stage. It can also take the sting out of some defeats.

 

Stage three, always competitive. We all strive for this stage. Experience combined with increased knowledge puts us in a good spot for success. This does not mean you and your dog will always win. But it will help you understand when you don’t. And when you do feel you have reached this stage, take heed. You will always be a student of this sport. Education is not something you ever finish.

Another stumbling block to success in our sport, is a disease. One that has plagued our kind since the dawn of our beginning. Kennel blindness. This ailment cannot be self-diagnosed. It can go undetected by the carrier for years and is, at times, incurable. Hopefully, after years of excuses piling up, “they only put up professional handlers”, “that dog is owned by their neighbour”, etc. Just like puppies, their eyes begin to open. If only it took ten to fourteen days. Sometimes it takes years, and sometimes, not at all. How often do first time exhibitors buy a less than quality first dog? Instead of realizing what they purchased and just love that first dog, they try for the next ten years to fix their initial mistake. Best advice I was ever given, choose the most knowledgeable mentor you can, don’t let them choose you, as they may be just looking for new members to help them talk poorly about the winning breeders. Then buy the best first dog you can afford, and lean on your mentor. I cannot tell you how many times I called George when I was younger. I still do. I knew I was interrupting his work but he always took my call. Success breeds success, don’t let your ego get in the way of bettering yourself.

 

Another disease that gets in the way is “Resistance' coined by Steven Pressfield, in his book War of Art. Believe me, resistance is a disease we all battle. It has taken different forms, procrastination or just plain laziness, and it’s very hard to find a cure.

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This sport only gives you what you put into it. From learning your breed, to learning how to groom and condition, and at times as simple as shutting your mouth and listening. For some, not as easy as it sounds.

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So, the answer to do “B-list” exhibitors exist? Yes, they do. It doesn’t mean they are less capable, or less competitive, or even have less experience and knowledge. It usually means, life gets in the way and adds limits due to life’s restrictions. Don’t for a minute ever underestimate one. If you do, you may be in for quite the eye opener.