Cochrane’s Olivia Britton and her two-year-old Newfoundland dog Ellie are walking away with big wins and even bigger smiles after an amazing showing in the Showmanship category at the 4-H on Parade competition.
“I didn’t think we’d get first in our first show,” says Olivia. “There were so many other dogs, and I was just waiting when they announced second place. Then they called our names for first. It was pretty cool.”
The pair won Supreme Showmanship, a title earned by the top competitors from across junior, intermediate and senior divisions.
The Springbank Rawhide member trained Ellie using treats and patience. “She was really scared of the tunnel at first,” says Olivia. “Now she’ll run right through it if I say ‘tunnel, Ellie.’ She loves it.”
“I didn’t even know what showmanship was when I joined,” she says. “I just knew Ellie could jump, and we went from there.”
The competition included agility events, good neighbour tests and more. While the duo placed second in agility, Olivia is proud of how far Ellie has come. “She jumped off the A-frame in warmup. She’s not a small dog, so I was a bit nervous,” she says.
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“You have to walk your dog on the right lead, follow patterns, smile and make eye contact with the judge. It’s about how you work as a team.”
The judges agreed, awarding her the top spot in a field of experienced competitors. Olivia even took home a belt buckle and a handful of ribbons.
Although the 4-H year has wrapped up, Olivia already knows she’s coming back. “It was really, really fun. I’ll be doing it again in September.”
“I’d definitely recommend 4-H to anyone who wants to learn and have fun with their dog.”
