Have you thought of finding a ringcraft class to go to. We too are brand new to showing, and have found this invaluable to teach me what to do at shows, as well as getting lots of help with any other items like yours. I was also advised to try going to open shows with Bonnie before trying champ shows, although it is fun to visit those without the dog and spend lots of money on equipment!

Of course, Bonnie dropped her coat just as I felt we were ready to show! We have been to 4 shows so far, and came last at 3 of them, although we were placed each time as entries were small. I'm hoping Bonnie will develop a decent coat for the Shetland sheepdog club show at Solihull in June, as I have entered her for 2 classes. Of course, she could well put paid to this, as she hasn't had her 1st season yet!

Best of luck with your showing! As people keep telling me " We all take the best dog home". You'll meet some super, helpful people at shows if you are as fortunate as I was!

Enjoy yourself
Louise