Conformation Handling Class with Sheena Rafferty

03/09/2025

Classes are filling up! If you would like to attend conformation class before the Assiniboine Kennel Club show, please register online/PM me as soon as possible. I have space available next weekend, Saturday Mar 15 at both 5:00 and 6:00pm, Mar 22 at 5:00pm, and Mar 29 at 5:00pm.

Conformation handling class for all ages and skill levels. Serving Winnipeg and the surrounding area.

03/08/2025

Buckle up! Mud Season is quickly approaching 😅🥴

01/01/2025

~ !! HAPPY NEW YEAR !! ~
Wishing you a year full of endless possibilities and unforgettable memories! Embrace new challenges, cherish the journey, and celebrate every victory.

12/25/2024

May your holidays be filled with joy and laughter!

12/15/2024

Last night was the last class of 2024. Enjoy a 2 week break, with classes resuming again on 04-Jan-2025.

It's been a pleasure to be part of your success in the conformation ring in 2024 and I'm looking forward to seeing you in 2025!!

11/22/2024

What does your conformation cue list include? Here's my list:

Stand = 4 feet on the ground, not moving, ideally in a 4-square position.
Watch = look at my face.
Bait = look at the bait. The bait might be in my hand or on the floor.
Tail = hold your tail up.
Teeth = head tilts up and teeth are shown.
Open = open mouth.
Break = free to change position.
Stay = hold your current position.
Let's go = trot around the ring on a loose lead, looking forward.
Turn = turn right.
Get in = turn left.
Lift = I'm going to pick you up.

It's important to keep your cues consistent, unique, and make them clear to your dog to prevent confusion. When we cue our dogs, we are telling them what we expect and/or what is going to happen next. This will give them comfort and confidence both in the ring and in every day life.

11/15/2024

So you started feeding your dog a raw diet and you're wondering what to use for training treats. There are plenty of options out there!!

For my puppies or dogs that are learning something new, I reach for Smack dehydrated raw. In these situations, I know that I am going to be delivering A LOT of treats, potentially a full meal over a 1 hour class. Using Smack ensures that my dogs are getting a balanced meal while we train.

For shorter sessions and/or older dogs practicing known behaviours, I tend to reach for a dehydrated single ingredient treat like beef liver, turkey, salmon, or whatever protein you want. Another go-to is cooked meat like pork heart or hot dogs. Their next scheduled meal will be smaller and contain more bone to balance off the boneless treats they consumed earlier.

For convenience, I usually prepare my treats ahead of time so that I'm always ready to grab and go to the next class or training session.

11/07/2024

Reminder: There is no class on Saturday 09-Nov-2024.

Good luck to everyone entered in the Wheat City Kennel Club shows and trials!!

10/25/2024

📣👇

Just a few important to things to keep in mind when in the ring 🥰

10/09/2024

Juniors!! Hope to see you on Oct 24 at 4U Farms for a junior specific class. Rev will be there for those that want to practice with a Doberman before the DPCM Regional on Nov 9 in Brandon.

09/19/2024

Shhhhh 🤫

The first rule of dog expenses ⬇️

09/15/2024

👇

09/05/2024

Reminder: No class on Saturday 07-Sep-2024.

Good luck to everyone entered in the Heart of the Continent shows!!

08/29/2024

Reminder: No class on Saturday 31-Aug-2024.

Good luck to everyone entered in the Saskatoon Kennel & Obedience Club shows and trials and the Australian Shepherd National Specialty!!

08/15/2024

Reminder: No class on Saturday 17-Aug-2024.

Good luck to everyone entered in the Manitoba Canine Association shows and trials and the Manitoba Working & Herding Association Group 3 and Group 7 Specialties!!

08/08/2024

Entries are now open for the Wheat City Kennel Club show in Brandon, MB Nov 7-10, 2024.
Details and entry information is available at:

Dog fanciers can quickly find Canadian dog event information. Dog show results and statistics available for every CKC conformation show in Canada.

08/08/2024

Be sure to get your entries in for Heart of the Continent!! 4 limited shows over 2 days!! Lots of opportunities for points!!

07/19/2024

NASDF of Canada is hosting an Echo Clinic on Sep 14 & 15, 2024 in Winnipeg. Register early to secure your spot!