You realize your Shih Tzu is developing beyond your wildest expectations and you definitely feel your Shih Tzu is show dog potential. This article will show you how to get your Shih Tzu started in the showring.

For those seriously interested in showing their Shih Tzu to full championship, match shows provide important experience for both the Shih Tzu and the owner.

Match shows are usually held by kennel clubs, annually or seminannually. Much ring poise and experience can be gained there. The age limit is usually two months at match shows to give Shih Tzu puppies four months of training before they compete at the regular shows when they reach six months of age.

Shih Tzu puppies compete with others of their own age for comparative purposes.

Many Shih Tzu breeders evaluate their Shih Tzu litters in this manner, choosing which is the most outgoing, which is the most poised, the best showman and so on. Class categories may vary slightly, according to a number of entries, but basically they include all the classes that are included at regular point show.

The fee for your Shih Tzu puppy to participate in match shows is usually nominal.

Ribbons and trophies are given for your efforts. Entries can be made on the same day of the show right on the show grounds. Match shows are unbenched.

Match shows are held in an informal and congenial atmosphere. They are a great way to help make the ordeal of one's first adventures in the show ring a little less nerve-wracking.

By the time your Shih Tzu puppy is six months old, your local kennel club can provide you with the names and addresses of the show-giving superintendents in yur area and give you information regarding where you must write for an entry form for the Point Shows.