Obedience Competition for Puppies?

[newark]

I am wondering if there are any competitions held for obedience that are appropriate for young puppies? Our sweet girl loves her training classes and we practise at home every day. I would really like to see if she'd enjoy a competition, as I think it would be something we'd love to do together.

I have no clue where to even look for such a thing. I have never been to a dog show, or even seen one advertised. Jersey is coming up on 5 months of age, and even though she's young, I have no doubt that she'd be okay to enter into a competition.

Anyone have any suggestions as to how I'd go about finding a competition that we can participate in? We plan on trying agility once she's older, and after all the obedience classes are done (going for the Canine Good Citizen to start). Our trainer has been very impressed with Jersey's ability to focus and how calm she is even with all the other dogs and distractions. She 'picks' on Jersey in class, to see if she can distract her, and Jersey is always wonderful and ignores her attempts.

Really hoping to hear from some folk who might be able to point me in the right direction. This is all brand new for me, so ANY advice is appreciated!

Jenn

Mom to Jersey - plain fawn girl who's the best baby in the world! (in my eye's at least )

[JulieM]

This site lists upcoming Obedience Trials in Canada by region:
http://www.dogbiz.com/dog-shows-can/obed-menu-can.htm

I'm not sure about the rules in Canada (the site above probably has them somewhere) - in the US, you can't enter a dog in any "offical" event until it is 6 months of age. In AKC Conformation, we do have "fun matches" and "sanctioned matches" that usually accept younger puppies, but I'm not sure if there is the same thing for Obedience (I think there is).

I'd think basic Obedience competition would be fine, if it's similar to the AKC events. There is no jumping/running, just floor work and walking (and even that only lasts a few minutes).

[Renee&Jake]

I am wondering if there are any competitions held for obedience that are appropriate for young puppies?

I can't speak for Canada, but a friend of mine put a CD on his Boxer at 6 months and like 10 days or something. I train with a club that does 'practice' once a month, and my 10 month old has been doing Novice run-thrus since 5 months of age, and LOVES obedience. Haven't had her in matches, but lots of run-thrus.

Sounds like your trainer would be very helpful in your search, let them know you are interested in competition, and see if they can help you find practice matches and run-thrus.

-Renee