Hi All; In reference to Carolyn' post, I also show Labs and Akitas, there are handlers in these breeds, but more owner handlers, even at the Nationals. The Lab folks do not make a big deal of the National, rather the Potomac Speciality is the "big" event. I still also show my GSD myself in the AB ring as I use to in Specialities. I did have a handler sometimes, but I got my dogs to show myself and enjoy. I have been lucky to show other breeds, like Irish Setters, which I love, especially when you have a good moving one. Since I am getting older and still want to show my own dogs, the new pup is an Akita, yes they run, but not like the GSD's. I am also waiting for another Lab, as they are just fun to show, always happy and love it free bait. I will always have a GSD in my life as I have for 50 years, but I really do enjoy showing my own dogs, so that is why the other breeds. Cathy Kelstar fmurch@xxxxxxxxxxxxx EarthLink Revolves Around You. ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2011. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Each Author is responsible for the content of his/her post. This group and its administrators are not responsible for the comments or opinions expressed in any post. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - http://showgsd.org SUBSCRIPTION:http://showgsd.org/mail.html NATIONAL BLOG - http://gsdnational.blogspot.com/ ============================================================================