The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets (Howell Reference Books) 
asked by sumbuddy on November 27, 2006 5:42 PM
George Alston, an expert dog handler for more than 30 years, teams with author Connie Vanacore on The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets. Combining sports psychology and dog showing, topics include psychocybernetics, the making of a show dog, learning from the competition, and etiquette and sportmanship. The Winning Edge: Show Ring Secrets is "an essential for every dog exhibitor's bookshelf."
Reviews
I enjoyed reading it, but I didn't find it very helpful. I have shown dogs only 3 years and found this book not very good. The guy talked to much about min games and psychology if you ask me.
I wouldn't ever spent money on it, but it was a fun book to read. If it's at your library get it.
I willn't suggest paying more then a few bucks for it.
If you really want a good book read: "Making it to Westminster" it's loaded with information and great to read, you willn't be able to put it down!
I wouldn't ever spent money on it, but it was a fun book to read. If it's at your library get it.
I willn't suggest paying more then a few bucks for it.
If you really want a good book read: "Making it to Westminster" it's loaded with information and great to read, you willn't be able to put it down!
reviewed by gilbert on November 28, 2006 4:32 PM
This book describes common sense show ring behavour regarding both handlers and dogs. I really enjoyed this book and found that my natural extints were correct. All too often we listen to others about our handling and our dogs. This book gave me the confidence to improve and to conduct myself in a way that is practical and comfortable for me and my dog. At times it could be viewed as contradictory, however, I believe that the author simply has enough respect for the intelligence of the reader to determine the differences. He doesn't believe it's necessary to spell it out. For me the truest and most important point learnt throughout the reading of this book is a simple message of fun and enjoyment. To encourage the handler to have fun and to provide an enjoyable showing experience for their dog.
I reccommend this book to readers of all ages, show experience levels and breeds.My 11 year old daughter read it after me and we both enjoyed discussing what we had learnt.
I reccommend this book to readers of all ages, show experience levels and breeds.My 11 year old daughter read it after me and we both enjoyed discussing what we had learnt.
reviewed by rob33 on November 29, 2006 6:29 AM
I totally disagree with the the person who wrote the first review. i don't know about him, but i'm not paying $25 an entry to lose. I am an owner handler and took no offense to his comments. Alston is trying to give you yor winning edge. He's honest and forthright and I would buy this bokok over and over again if i had all the money in the world.
reviewed by bigdv on November 29, 2006 2:17 PM
This is a detailed book designed to guide you through your Speciality dogs' campaigning. This is not a book made to help class dogs win in the breed ring. This is written especially for Group 1's and Best In Show wins. I highly recommend reading this book before attending one of his seminars to be prepared what and what not to ask. This author has had mulitple BIS dogs in his resume' and has a unlimited wealth of knowledge in the sport. This book can teach you everything from installing fear into your competition, to getting the photographer to take the kind of picture YOU want. This is the best book on the market for the Advanced Owner-Handler or Professional Handler.
reviewed by tubi on November 29, 2006 4:42 PM
Professional and always putting the well being of the dogs in his charge first George Alston seems to be one of the last of the gentleman. If all handlers adopted his integrity and style the sport of dog showing might be given more respect. Whether you're new to the sport or have years of showing under your belt this book is worth every penny!
On a side note I highly recommend attending one of his semiars.
On a side note I highly recommend attending one of his semiars.
reviewed by sumbuddy on November 28, 2006 1:27 PM
