For a chance to qualify for a special competition at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, The Kennel Club, the organisation behind Crufts, is inviting dogs and owners based in the north east to its ‘Have a Go’ training and special show, hosted by Leeds City and District Canine Association on Sunday 30 July at Harewood House, Leeds.
Owners can find out what it’s like to compete in the show ring with their pedigree dog, while also having the chance to qualify for a special place at the world’s greatest dog show, Crufts taking place on the 7 - 10 March 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham.
13 year old Lily Phoebe Kitson, from Wakefield, and her Irish Setter ‘Murphy’ successfully took part in the Have A Go event at Leeds Championship show in 2022.
Lily said: “I’ve been lucky that my grandparents have been competing at dog shows for a while but when I took part in the Have A Go last year, it was a great way to learn what actually happens when you show a dog! Since then, I entered more competitions at open shows with Murphy and enjoyed winning some rosettes. I immediately signed up to the Young Kennel Club too and I’ll be back competing in the breed and Young Kennel Club classes at Leeds this year!”
The Kennel Club’s ‘Have a Go’ training days are designed for people of any age and any ability, with a pedigree dog, and are the ideal opportunity for owners to develop a new skill, hobby and social circle alongside their four-legged friend. Complete beginners, with no prior experience or knowledge of dog showing, are welcome, with just interest and enthusiasm needed. All owners and their dogs can reap the rewards of the socialising experience, unite with other dog-lovers over shared interests and ambitions, and become part of a close-knit community.
For those who have ever watched the variety of dogs showing their best side at Crufts, and perhaps wondered how their own canine companion could ever be crowned ‘Best in Show’, The Kennel Club’s ‘Have a Go’ dog shows could be the first step. At the end of the training session, a competition will take place, with the winner qualifying for a place in a special competition at Crufts 2024.
Booking a place at the Leeds ‘Have a Go’ show, taking place as part of the Leeds Championship Dog Show, costs £10, including parking, and all participants will receive a beginners’ dog showing pack and training which covers:
• Getting ready for taking part
• Basic skills required for participating
• What to expect when participating
• What to do once you have participated
The Kennel Club’s ‘Have a Go’ dog shows are being held across different regions in the UK in 2023 at various all-breed championship dog shows. Helen Kerfoot, Chief Operations Officer, commented: “The ‘Have a Go’ dog shows have always proved to be an energetic and fun-filled event for everyone involved. It’s wonderful to be part of and watching newcomers discovering and learning the skills of dog showing in a laidback yet educational environment is so inspiring. I have no doubt there could be further future Crufts stars like Lily and Murphy in our midst at Leeds!”
For further information on all of The Kennel Club’s ‘Have a Go’ shows, and to book a slot, visit our website. Bookings for the Leeds event are due to close on Wednesday 26 July, subject to availability.
Further details about Leeds Championship show and the society can be found on the high ampress website.
A specially-made video for owners interested in getting started in dog showing can be found on our website.
Parents of young dog lovers who may be interested in becoming a member of the Young Kennel Club should visit our website for more information.