The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets (Howell Reference Books)

I greatly enjoyed this book. As a complete newbie to the dog-showing world (my first show pup is due to debut in the ring in 2 weeks) I found the information inside very helpful, and it definitely helped me learn some of the unwritten rules of dog show tradition and etiquette that I might not otherwise have known. Highly recommended for a beginner like me.

It's called The Winning Edge for a reason. It's not basic how-to and it helps if you know a little going in - although even a brand new handler will learn a lot. The winning edge is that little extra that puts you over the top. Show ring secrets. Exactly. Like the mint to hide the adrenaline in your saliva. Handling classes were and are helpful, but the truth is, everything I learned came from George. I've taken his workshops five times and learned something new at every one. You can learn how to show a dog anywhere. This book is about how to win. As for the person who said he demeans owner-handlers, his workshop begins with a question...what gives an owner-handler an advantage over a professional? Huh? How could I know more than a professional? Answer, you have only ONE dog, whereas the pro has many. You can focus 150% on your one dog and that is a huge advantage, both to your handling skills and your confidence level. George is ALL about helping owner-handlers and there is no one better to do it. He has a reputation for being gruff and harsh on his students, especially the kids. If you are willing to listen and work hard, he will bend over backwards for you. If not, he won't waste his time. As for the kids, I've never seen anyone more attentive to their needs. But the bottom line is that this book is a condensed version of his two day workshop and that's a hell of a big bang for your buck. Plus he has a great sense of humor!

I show my own dogs and have shown to multiple group wins and placements as well as Best in Show. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning the finer points of presenting your dog to its best. This book and Peter Green's "New Secrets of Successful Show Dog Handling" are the two I own and recommend.

This book is the complete guide from A to Z on showing your dog in the AKC ring. There are so many facets to consider and learn that this book will be your teacher as you master all of the little nuances that either make or break a competitor. This is a study guide of a complex orchestrated preparation and presentation that will put you to the front of your class. The little things matter....and they are all covered in this book.

I have 0 trainers, 1 dog, and 2 years of trying the shows. I read this book 3 times.Trying to "be George" at our next outing, a Specialty - We took all the points.Read the book.

Me. Alston gives superb Handling Seminars I've been to several! His book is excellent and should be read many times by all aspiring handlers in the dog show ring. Buy it. You will be glad you did. It arrived quickly and in pristine condition.

This is exactly what I was looking for. I am new to showing and wanted to know how to behave and what to do and not do. This is exactly what I wanted.I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to show.Really thoughtfully written.

I took one of the author's handling classes some time ago and learned a lot from it. Bought this classic for one of my puppy-owners who wants to show her own dog. I wish George was still teaching! Highly recommend.

This book is in good physical condition, but I was disappointed to find that the previous owner has highlighted some sentences/sections with a yellow highlighter throughout the book. This was not mentioned in the description and it would have affected my decision to purchase as I find it irritating to have another person's idea of what is important thrust upon me whilst reading. Other than that everything was okay, the book was a good price, arrived within the stated timescale and was well packaged. I would recommend the sellers on this basis, but I would advise them to ensure that things like this are mentioned in their description of the item just so that they are being completely fair to the purchaser.

What a fab book defo recommend

ottimo libro per gli appassionati di esposizioni cinofile.

It’s good info just wish more info

Not for beginners

Good basic techniques and information for the show ring