Ballantyne's first day as a show dog...

...was in Hutchinson, MN with Mr. James Frederickson judging today. It was Ballantyne (AKA Naughty)'s first time at a show where she was entered. I wasn't expecting anything as she was pretty overwhelmed outside the ring with the Chow and Min Pins across the aisle.

Within moments of walking in the ring, the judge started talking to me "show her on a loose lead" and "don't hard stack her or she won't give ears, and won't look her best". He REALLY liked her. I don't take compliments well, but thanked him after every time he said something about her. With ever 'go around' she moved better and looked happier and by the time Best of Winner's came around, She was super happy and moving better than I'd seen her move before.

Elaine with her Jewel was BOB and Ballantyne was BOS and WB. It was just a single point but she beat out the dog for BOW and three other bitches for WB so I'm happy! I had Ava entered in BBE and Naughty was in 6-9 puppy. The Judge commented on Jewel's high tail carriage and made note of it to me with Ava when we were on the table, so I'm guessing that is why she was 2/2 in her class. With her other virtues I would think the carriage wouldn't matter but again, its one judges opinion. Ava and Naughty are SO different that I like taking them both to see what judges will do with them.

Even with Naughty (still Ballantyne!) being smallish I am very thankful the judge was able to see her virtues (if he couldn't see Ava's) and am happy for her first point! Yippee!

At the first photo shoot with the judge, he remarked again how promising and lovely she was and if I can show her on a loose lead she'll be a fun and winning dog! That made my 3 hour drive each way worth it!