First let me say that it is fine to ask a judge a question about your dog after showing to him or her as long as it is done in the appropriate way. Here are some things to remember:

· Not all judges are equal.  Most will be willing to speak with you, but there may be a minority who take offense at this and are not as pleasant as they should be. If this happens to you, just add that judge to your DO NOT SHOW to list and move on.

· Make sure you really want to know and you are not asking about your dog in a challenging manner. Care about the judge’s answer.

· Approach the judge when he is on an extended break. Don’t expect him to be able to speak with you between classes or right after your class.

· Have your dog with you. Don’t expect the judge to remember you and your dog from your description.

· Ask as a student – not a challenger. For example, “Why didn’t you put my dog up?” is obviously not appropriate. The best way might be to say, “I am trying to learn. Can you tell me what I might do to get better, or do you think my dog has the potential to become a champion?” When I say Care About the Answer, thank the judge and walk away. Don’t expect to get into a long discussion, because the judge simply does not have the time. Consider his advice to you in an objective manner. If you didn’t really want his opinion, you shouldn’t have asked. We understand that you love your dog – and you should – and if we did not put your dog up, it is not an insult – it is the judge’s opinion that on this day your dog was not as close to fulfilling the breed standard as other dogs were. That is why the judge is in the ring.

· After you have spoken with the judge, I recommend that you put your dog away, and then sit and watch the judge officiating in other breeds. Try to look at the other breeds with a judge’s eye to get a feel for what this judge considers to be important. It is a learning opportunity.

About the judge: Mr. Sid Marx is an AKC judge with 50+ years judging experience.  He currently judges  the Sporting, Hound, & Terrier Groups, Best in Show and Jr's.  He also writes a wonderful column for Dog News titled, The Judge Marx the Spot.