Keeping it real

I do have an Icemile pup 'Icemile Something T believe in' and his absolutely gorgeous. We named him Austin - although a little jealous about the amount of thought you put into your pups name, well done. He has settled in well, a couple of little mishaps with toilet training but otherwise he is very well behaved and my family absolutely love him. He had his second shot last week and starting puppy classes on Saturday. How about you, where abouts are you located? Are you going to show Yoki?

Yeah a little confused, KCC is atleast an hr from Melton. Sorted now though, spoke with Peter Frost on Wednesday and I'll be spending some time with him at Bulla when puppy gets to 12 weeks. Thanks all, I'll send some pics when puppy srrives.

wayrod, Thanks I'll be there.

Thanks Evolving, I'm on it.

Underfoot, Thanks sounds great - this would suit perfect.

Hi All, I've recently bought a show quality Alaskan Malamute pup and intend to show him in baby puppy class when he is 3 mths old. I have purchased a few books, but figure there's nothing like practice, so I'm looking for show dog training but can't seem to find anything in the area. I've also thought about finding a mentor as the breeder is in Sydney so can't physically help. Let me know if anyone can help with training or act as a mentor.

Whiskedaway, thanks. I'll do just that while he's a baby and maybe add the dryer when he grows a bit. Good to hear from someone in a similar position.

Hi Beth, A very positive post...thanks. Exciting is an understatement, the poor boy's only 3 weeks old and I have his future all mapped out I'm in Melton, so only 25 mins from KCC ;) I haven't been there before, but was very happy to hear Bulla is home to one of the main show venues. The sessions on Thursday nights sound perfect for us and I'll check it out as soon as puppy arrives I'm discussing the Royal with the breeder and it looks likely that they will attend and show the dog for me, so I'll have a great opportunity to gain some much needed experience. Never the less I'm going to aim for 3 shows prior to the Royal, hopefully get my confidence up and see what I'm in for. After the Royal the specialty show is next. I'm inclined to think the same about the equipment, I don't need a table whilst his a pup. However the Dryer looks like it's a neccessity I can't do without. Wow a Leonberger! How cool...are you near KCC too?

The breeder is well aware of the intention to show the dog. I've purchased several books today and 'show me' is one of them. The breeder is unfortunately based in Sydney...but will be coming down for Royal Melbourne, lucky me. Thanks for all the advice.

Hi All, my first DOL post. I have recently purchased an Alaskan Malamute puppy and will recieve him at 8.5 weeks around July 20. Although not confirmed he is of show quality (only two weeks old), he's breeding is of the highest quality and my intentions are to get involved in showing him from the get go. For all the experienced handlers. breeders and dog owners I have some questions for you. Shows to enter - I'm in Victoria and have Horsham, Macalister, Hamilton, Kilmore and Royal Melbourne earmarked as the dog's and my initiation to the baby puppy show ring. I'd be keen to hear your thoughts and advise on wether on not I am in for a good experience and the chances of success without alot of experience. Equipment - I have received a list of things to purchase prior to the puppies arrival, food bowl, leash, collar, day bed, kennel, etc. They have also recommended a grooming table, noose and blower and I'd like to know if this grooming equipment is absolutely necessary for success given I will only have the 1 dog? Training - i am keen to have the best training possible for the dog however I am a little confused with all of the options available. Is puppy school required? Is Obedience training better than a home schooled TOT approach? I'm also looking for a good book on showing dogs, show dog training, possible breed specific? Any help appreciated....