Starting Out
Showing your puppy competitively at an A.K.C. show will normally require a professional show handler. Although not mandatory, the professional handler is always your best choice for owners not quite ready to enter the ring themselves. If you're insistent on handling your own puppy, you should first enter him into a puppy class (6 months - 12 months) and see how it goes. You can also take handling classes on handling. Ask around the shows for more information.
Professional handlers will normally handle several dogs at a large A.K.C. event and you'll often see them running from ring to ring handling various breeds.
Why Use A Handler?
Even the best breeders in the country with numerous dogs and show champions under their belts will use a professional show handler. Why? Simply put, besides the years required to excel in the ring, there's the psychology of your dog to consider.
Some breeders/owners believe their dog will react with more interest to a handler than themselves. Sometimes their dog will simply look better with the handler or even "show-off" a little. Even a non-show dog may be able to win with the correct handler. If your handler is good and knows the Rottweiler, he or she will know just how to make your dog look better than he actual is.
Where to Find A Handler
Proper techniques and skill in handling purebred dogs at conformation shows are learned from experience and require handlers that know the game. Finding a good handler is paramount. Visit dog shows in your area and ask Rottweiler breeders and owners for their advice.
Handler Fees
Fees for professional handlers vary. You can expect to pay anywhere from $35 to $100 per dog, per class for each show. If your dog wins at different levels, you may be required to pay additional bonuses.
Services such as grooming are generally not required for the Rottweiler; however, any travel expenses or boarding fees should be discussed beforehand. If your handler needs to work with your dog before the show, be sure to get his or her fees first.
Traveling Abroad
Often, professional handlers will travel abroad, exhibiting every weekend. He or she may offer to show your dog with more frequency during heightened show seasons. This will increase the chances of your dog finishing his championship but will also add significant costs. Hopefully your decision can be based on your dogs success in local puppy class shows first. How important is it to you to accelerate his championship? Always remember, show handler's intense schedules may not always match yours, try not to rush into your dog's championship.
You love your dog, and he even though he's the greatest dog in the world, he may never finish his championship. Differences in handlers, judging, schedules or other problems may inhibit your goals. Never purchase a puppy with too many expectations. Even the best breeders in the world can't make guarantees. Dogs can be 18 months old before they can be fully assessed, so don't be mislead.