Junior Showmanship

The AKC Junior class is a chance for children and young adults aged 9 to 18 to learn grooming, ring procedures, showing techniques, and sportsmanship.  The competition is organized in a similar manner to an adult show, but judges put more emphasis on how well the the junior handler understands the show procedures and how to show their dog to the best effect.  Judges also watch how handlers interact and if they are familiar with the breed standard.

There are two main types of classes.  Novice class is for beginners, and those with at least three first-place wins compete in Open.  These are classes may be divided into age groups:
* Junior, 9 to 11 years old
* Intermediate, 12 to 14 years old
* Senior, 15 years to 18 years old

AKC Requirements
* Dog must be owned by junior exhibitor, or a family or household member.
* Have an AKC Junior Handler Number.  (Online request form)

More resources on Junior Showmanship