The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets

Contrary to the comments a previous reviewer, I hope most will realize the value of this excellent and practical book and give it a try. The criticism of the "reader from Texas," is INANE and inappropriate. FIRST of all, the author never pretends to be a writer. He is, however, an accomplished Pro Handler with a track record of big show wins and real life experience to share about what to do (and not to do) in the show ring. SECOND, as for the comment about "how many times he belittled the owner-handler in this book," that too is utter nonsense. He is simply pointing out the kinds of behaviors that will NOT help you to win in the ring, and isn't that the ENTIRE POINT of reading this book??? Yes, showing dogs is a sport, but the reader is in La La Land if he does not realize that what "the judge likes," and "how to hide faults" are paramount to successfully showing and winning with your dog. The author does not pretend to be there to discuss "important aspects" of dogs. One presumes that the book will be bought and read to help the amateur handler understand how best to handle their dog in the ring. Ignore this reviewer and read this book! I found it to be extremely down-to-earth and full of little gems of wisdom and hints to remember and apply. I have bought a number of more "professionally written and less judgmental" books on showing and handling and they are too bland and so general as to be useless. They are NOT going to be the ones that I will refer back to and read again-- but this book will be read again and again. It's aptly named. It is indeed full of little secrets that are important to know in the show ring. It is an OUTSTANDING and entertaining reference in a gritty, no-nonsense way. I HIGHLY recommend it.

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!

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.

Lots of info. Some is just too much to appreciate at this level. Ultimately it helps to understand what we are up against when competing with a pro. So much goes into showing a dog well. It is all too easy to underestimate what it takes. Emphasis on sportsmanship, preparation & attention to detail are strong points of this book. I recommend this book to the amateur and will most likely need to re-read as my skill level increases.

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 am new to the world of Conformation Dog Showing. This book has been a tremendous help to me. It is easy to read and understand.

it is just what the tittle says. buy it today, it is worth your $$.I have used many tips to win in jr.s. i only have a few show boks but this is the one of the best. it is a book for all expirencs. If u r new in this sport i would recomend the absoute beginners guild to showwing your dog over this becuase in this book u have to know the very basics.(biat,giat,ect) The absoulte beginers guild is a book someone off the strrets could read to help him/her understand showing. I love this book. I would NEVER throw it out. All profesionals should have a copy in there grooming tack.its not that big,not that hevy.

When I spoke to my dogs breeder, her comment was that I needed this book. I was happy to tell her I had already ordered and read it! She is a veteran and reads it every Spring before she steps into the Show Ring to brush up on things. I found it to be very helpful as a beginner and I've found it even more helpful after I've been in the ring a couple of times. It leaves out a lot of the "fluff" but is a great companion book to some of the others that start out at the very beginning. Very easy to read. Confidence builder!

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.

Good basic techniques and information for the show ring

Not for beginners