Handling the handler
by Rose Chandless

How does one find the "right" handler for their Shetland Sheepdog? First, one must consider what a handler does. A "handler", defined by The Random House Dictionary of the English Language is "one who exhibits a dog in a bench show or field trial" while, the verb to "handle" is "...to manage, direct, train or control" and the noun "handling" is described as "...the manner of treating or dealing with something, management". Actually, all these definitions can be used to describe today’s dog handler.

The American Kennel Club has made several attempts to standardize the quality of a handler, the latest by adopting a system where each potential "registered handler" is interviewed, kennel and vehicle inspected, and has references checked before they are deemed "registered" with the AKC for referral to the fancy.

Groups like the Professional Handlers Association (PHA) and Owner Handler Association (OHA) have also provided a form of screening before an individual is accepted as a member. In addition, some handlers show multiple breeds while others specialize in just one. Those handling breeds like the Poodle, Old English Sheepdog, Collie, Sheltie , and a number of toy breeds all require a high level of grooming expertise, becoming truly creative artists in the grooming and presentation of the dogs they exhibit. Enter now the novice Sheltie owner, (ah, if anxiety were their only adversary) with their first "show dog". Fortified by reading the breed standard, several times, they learn the rules of the game. The breeder confirms that this dog has the potential to become a champion. Wearing their heart on their sleeve, the novice ventures forth into the world of dog shows, only to quickly realize that there is so much more to the art of showing dogs than meets the eye. Having the best dog is just not always enough. So the search begins to find "the" handler; one who can emphasize their dog’s virtues and claim the esteemed title of Champion. Shelties, as a breed, have a high intellect, and as a result are more intuitive and sensitive, requiring a handler with these same gifts. Only a handler who possess the knowledge, is willing to give the necessary time, has that special touch of the hand, and has the talent to wisely blend all of these essentials will enjoy ring victories. Sheltie handlers who truly love the breed and work tireless towards its continuous improvement are evident to even the untrained eye. Each handler develops a particular style, unique to him or herself. They become known by this trademark to judges and fancy alike. Like an artist’s brush, a handler adds their unique, individual strokes to the canvas, creating the picture that becomes the owner’s dreams of a championship title.

The rest of this story can be found in the April-May 2004 issue of Sheltie International. See subscription page on this website, or email dogmag@fix.net.