Any starting out Dog Shows?

Here is the problem with referring you to the AKC websites: Rat Terriers are not an AKC recognized breed. Until they become so (and I have no idea on the status of that), you will not be able to show your dog in AKC shows of any kind.

However, Rat Terriers *are* a UKC recognized breed. So you can show them there, if your dog is UKC registered.

http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/RatTerri...

Your best bet is to find a dog training club near you and find out if they offer conformation ("handling") classes. These classes will help you learn to show your dog.

You can also find out if/when/where the UKC shows are coming up in your area:

http://www.ukcdogs.com/Upcoming.nsf/EventView?Open...

For example, it looks like there are several shows coming up in California in May. You may want to go to one of these shows and just watch the first time, to see how things work. Then, enter your dog at the next one.

I'm not very familiar with UKC conformation shows, but I've heard that they are relaxed and newbie-friendly.

Hope this helps!

I don't know if the Rat Terrier is AKC recognized, but I know it is UKC recognized. Visit the UKC website, on the Events page, you'll find a list of shows, some which may be near you.

http://www.ukcdogs.com/

Join your local breed club. That's always the best place to start. Search the AKC website and you should find a breed club in your area.

Be on the lookout for a Show and Go. It's a good place to learn.

If you don't find anything on the AKC site, email them for help.

If you have a good kennel club in your area, they should have information on local shows. Also, www.akc.org will list any shows that they sanction. A local obedience class or trainer may also have information.

http://www.akc.org/

But you will have to get him ILP registered (I'm assuming he isn't already registered)... but by doing ILP you can't do conformation, but can do other AKC show events, which can be great fun (agility, obedience, etc).