A Little Star in the Making - Gracie's First Shows

The Dubbo & District Kennel Club shows at Gilgandra marked a very special little milestone for us, with Shebos Goodness Gracious Me – “Gracie” making her very first appearance in the show ring.

Gracie is our homebred daughter of the very handsome CH SLV JR CH Victoria’s Diamond Ego (Imp SVN) – “Ego” and gorgeous girl Shebos Twist And Shout – “Twistie.”

This was a beautiful, quality litter and choosing which puppy would stay at Shebos as my next show prospect wasn't an easy decision. Sometimes, when you've watched puppies grow from the moment they're born, an experienced and impartial eye is invaluable.

I was very fortunate to have the guidance of two experienced Boston Terrier breeders and exhibitors, Di Bradshaw of Ozstock Boston Terriers and Amy Gilson of Zareba Boston Terriers, who generously shared their knowledge and helped me assess the litter and ultimately choose Gracie as my keeper.

So when Gracie stepped into the ring for the very first time at Gilgandra, there was perhaps just a little extra anticipation to see what she would make of it all!

As with any baby puppy stepping into the ring for the first time, you never quite know what you're going to get. Everything is new – the sounds, the other dogs, the people, the lead and, of course, being expected to trot nicely around a ring when there are far more interesting things going on.

Gracie, however, took it all in her stride.

She was a little star from the moment she stepped into the ring, doing everything that was asked of her and thoroughly enjoying herself. I couldn't have asked for a better introduction to showing for her.

Across the three shows over the weekend, Gracie was awarded Baby Puppy in Breed under three different judges:

Dr Karen Hedberg – Dubbo & District Kennel Club AM Show
Mrs Kay Eldred – Dubbo & District Kennel Club PM Show
Mr Christopher Woodrow – Dubbo & District Kennel Club

The ribbons were lovely, of course, but at this age they're really not what matters most to me. What made me happiest was seeing Gracie walk into that ring for the very first time happy, confident and ready to have a go.

For a baby puppy at her very first shows, I couldn't have been prouder of her.

Biggest thanks to Jo Woodrow for her assistance and patience in getting our lovely photo mementos from the day.

A beautiful beginning for our little Gracie. ❤️

Professional photographs by Pauline Andrews Photography.

Gallery